Phoenix Resident Claims $6.4 Million The Pick Jackpot Just Before His Birthday

Arizona's Own Jackpot Game Winner Adds to Excitement of Record-Breaking Mega Millions Weekend


PHOENIX, AZ--(Marketwire - Apr 3, 2012) - A Phoenix resident, Alex A. Defiore, claimed the $6.4 million The Pick jackpot today from the drawing on Saturday, March 31. The Pick is Arizona's own jackpot game.

The winning Quick Pick ticket was purchased by Defiore, along with four other tickets, at a Circle K located at 6322 North 12th Street in Phoenix.

Defiore discovered he held the winning ticket on Sunday, just two days before his birthday. He tried calling his wife five times that morning to tell her the good news, but could only leave her messages since she was still asleep. Defiore said that he is happier for his wife than for himself, because the win will enable her to retire.

Defiore chose the cash option and received more than $4.1 million before taxes.

"It was an honor to award such a hefty birthday gift to Mr. Defiore at the Arizona Lottery office today," said Karen Bach, assistant director of budget, products and communications for the Arizona Lottery. "This is shaping up to be a big week for Arizona Lottery winners, as we are also expecting to award Arizona's three $250,000 Mega Millions winners with their prizes this week."

Winning numbers for The Pick are broadcast Wednesdays and Saturdays during the 10 p.m. news on Channel 13 (CBS) in Tucson and posted on www.ABC15.com in Phoenix.

Players can check their numbers by logging onto www.ArizonaLottery.com or by calling the winning numbers hotline at 480-829-PICK in Phoenix and 1-800-499-3798 in all other Arizona areas. Players can also opt-in to receive winning number text alerts by texting "AZLOT" to 411247.

Players must be 21 years or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Overall odds vary by game. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, these materials may be made available in an alternate format. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-NEXT STEP. Please Play Responsibly.™

About the Arizona Lottery
The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets -- nearly $3 million per week -- fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out more than $4.6 billion in prizes to players, nearly $2.7 billion in net profit to the state and more than $550 million in commissions to retailers.

Contact Information:

Contact:
Jennifer Adler
E.B. Lane
(602) 417-1594