ARDMORE, Tn. – Many people in the valley are feeling fortunate as the Powerball prize has reached an estimated half a billion dollars.
“Five hundred million dollars is a significant amount of money,” said Leola Kirby, one of the Alabamians who traveled to another state for a chance at winning a fortune.
Kirby believes that winning such a substantial sum could bring about positive changes in her life and help her family and others.
She even fantasizes about owning a beach house. Although the 20-minute drive to the True Discount Lotto Land in Ardmore isn’t far, Kirby thinks that her state is missing out on potential revenue.
“I wish we had a lottery,” expressed Kirby. “Although this place is nearby, it would be nice to have a lottery in Alabama, and the proceeds could benefit the state.”
Kirby suggests that the funds generated from the lottery could be allocated to the education department. However, Alabama House Representative Ernie Yarbrough disagrees, stating that it may not always be the solution.
During this year’s legislative session, a lottery was not a topic of discussion. One possible reason for this is that the state currently has more pressing issues to address.
“You know, a lottery would likely be seen as more of a luxury item, especially when many people are struggling to pay their bills,” explained Yarbrough.
