On November 7, 2022, a single ticket from California scooped a record-breaking Powerball jackpot! The winner, which came forward on Valentine’s Day, more than 3 months after winning, is the sole winner of the largest jackpot in U.S. history.
In accordance to California’s public disclosure laws, we now know the name of the lucky Powerball winner: Edwin Castro. However Mr Castro asked lottery officials not to disclose any biographical information. He also declined attending the news conference.
Lottery officials declared: “Edwin Castro’s name is now part of public record. As with all of our winners, but in an effort to balance transparency with privacy, that’s the only information that’s subject to public record,”
Instead, Mr Castro chose to release a statement in which he expressed how “shocked” and “ecstatic” he is about his win. Moreover he expressed his gratitude over the fact that the California school system benefits from this win:
“As much as I am shocked and ecstatic to have won the Powerball drawing, the real winner is the California public school system. The mission of the California lottery, which is to provide supplemental funding for California public education both public schools and colleges, makes this a huge win for the state. As someone who received the rewards of being educated in the California public education system, it’s gratifying to hear that as a result of my win, the California school system greatly benefits as well.”
The November draw raised a record $156.3 Million for the California public school system according to Alva V. Johnson, California Lottery Director. He also added that that amount contributed to a record-setting fiscal year for the California Lottery, as more than $2 Billion were raised for public schools in 2022.
The California Lottery also mentioned how these funds help public education: “This funding is largely discretionary, meaning schools can use this for important, yet unfunded instructional programs they would otherwise not afford,”
Edwin Castro chose the lump sum payment rather than the annuity option; he therefore received $997.6 Million (before taxes!). His ticket, which was the only one matching all Powerball winning numbers 10-33-41-47-56/10, is now in the hands of the California Lottery. Lottery Officials have mentioned that they might choose to display the winning ticket.
When a winner comes forward in California, he or she receives a “Winner’s Handbook” which includes around 20 pages of recommendations for new lottery winners.
Edwin Castro purchased his US Powerball ticket at Joe’s Service Center on West Woodbury Road, Altadena.The shop was rewarded for selling a winning ticket with $1 Million.