Entertainment

Elk River Man Bounces on $21.6 Million Lottery Jackpot

Published

5 years ago

July 15, 2019

“I drive by the lottery office daily on my way to work and would say, ‘One day … one day,’ ” The Elk River man said. He drives by this particular building nearly every day and thought of going inside one day to claim his riches. The fortune-bringing ticket was bought in Ramsey, at the Holiday convenience store on Ramsey Boulevard just off Hwy. 10. The jackpot was won with the number matching all five numbers drawn plus the Star Ball — 16, 22, 32, 36, 42, Star Ball of 8.

The holder of the Lotto America ticket, Jeffery Love hit the jackpot on 12th July, Friday, for $21.6 million before taxes. Although he had one year to claim his riches, Jeffery came to the Roseville office of the Minnesota Lottery just about as quickly as he could, two days after the winning numbers were drawn.

Love said “I stopped at a lottery retailer Friday morning and scanned my ticket.” The scanner message instructed him to contact the Minnesota Lottery so as to claim the prize. The golden prize winner also added “I was on my way back to work on Friday when I learned of my good fortune. First, I called into work and told them I would “be a little late”, but it wasn’t long before I called back and let them know that I wouldn’t be in at all Friday.”

Pending the situation, he thought to himself “OK, this is big.” He then checked the numbers on his phone. He added “When I checked the winning numbers to my ticket, they matched perfectly.” He called [wife] Vickie and told her that there is a situation.

According to Satta King, along with Minnesota, Lotto America is enjoyed in 12 other states. It replaced Hot Lotto in the fall of 2017, and like its forerunner, has a jackpot that grows as each drawing fails to bring a winner. Currently, the jackpot resets to $2 million.

Entertainment

“The Firing Squad”: I Cried Buckets of Tears

Published

2 days ago

April 25, 2024

Jonathan Grilli

Sitting in the dimly lit theater, I had no idea what to expect as the opening credits of “The Firing Squad” began to roll. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an emotional journey that would leave me reaching for tissues and struggling to catch my breath.

The film follows the true story of three Christians facing execution by firing squad in a third world country. Directed by Timothy A. Chey, it features a stellar cast including James Barrington, Kevin Sorbo, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Each actor brings their character to life with such authenticity and depth that it’s impossible not to be fully immersed in their struggles and triumphs.

As the plot unfolded, I found myself drawn into a world of despair and desperation, but also one of unwavering faith and hope. The characters’ journey from darkness to light, from despair to redemption, resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I couldn’t help but be moved by their courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

But it was the performances that truly stole the show. James Barrington’s portrayal of the protagonist’s internal turmoil was nothing short of mesmerizing, while Kevin Sorbo and Cuba Gooding Jr. delivered powerhouse performances that left me in awe.

And then there was the message of the film—that no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem, there is always hope. That even in our darkest moments, faith has the power to transform lives and bring about redemption. It was a message that hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me with tears streaming down my face and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the credits rolled and the lights came up, I found myself struggling to put into words the impact that “The Firing Squad” had on me. All I could manage was, “I cried buckets of tears.” And I wasn’t alone. As I looked around the theater, I saw others wiping their eyes and exchanging emotional glances.

In the end, “The Firing Squad” wasn’t just a movie—it was an experience. An experience that left me feeling inspired, uplifted, and profoundly grateful for the power of cinema to touch the soul. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

The movie is set to premiere in the theatres worldwide on August 2, 2024. And this is definitely a must watch movie, reminding people of the strength of faith.