New Mexicans Hope to Win Mega Millions
With Tuesday night’s Mega Millions jackpot soaring above $900 million, excitement is high and ticket sales are booming.
M&T Mini Mart in Albuquerque Sees Growing Crowds
The line at M&T Mini Mart in Albuquerque is getting longer as the jackpot rises. Ashlee Weiss, co-owner of the store, notes that many players are particular about where they buy tickets. “They’re meticulous with the way they do their lottery, right?” Weiss said. “A lot of people stick to a specific store because they believe they have better luck there. Fortunately, we’ve become that lucky spot for quite a few.”
Ticket Sales Surge at M&T Mini Mart
Owner Teresa Thompson shares that the demand hasn’t slowed, with hundreds of tickets sold daily. “[It’s been] much busier,” Thompson said. “If they win, they often buy more tickets, creating a constant cycle.”
The Dream Behind the Odds
Players like Hazel and her father play despite long odds, motivated by hope. Hazel considers herself her dad’s good luck charm. “My dad wanted me to pick some lottos because the last time I did, he won $30,” she explained.
Ticket Sales and Final Moments
Tickets remain available until 9 p.m. on Tuesday, the time of the drawing. Long lines are expected right up to the deadline, and the gas station plans to keep printing tickets until the very last minute.
“It spurs a lot of imagination when it gets this big,” said Wendy Ahlm, New Mexico Lottery director of Advertisement and Marketing.
Summary: The massive Mega Millions jackpot has created a surge in ticket sales and hopeful dreams across New Mexico, where players believe luck and tradition meet at local stores.