2/05/2009 - 9:24 AM

Dequincy Man Claims $30,000 Top Prize from Bonus Crossword Scratch-off

Chris Ivey of Dequincy has a reason to smile after claiming a $30,000 top prize from a "Bonus Crossword" scratch-off at the Lottery's Lafayette office.

At first, Chris Ivey of Dequincy was puzzled when he scratched a Bonus Crossword scratch-off from the Louisiana Lottery.

"At first I thought I had won just $1,000," said Ivey, age 38, who then realized he had actually won one of the game's $30,000 top prizes. "It's shocking to win!"

Ivey said he plans to purchase a new truck with his winnings. He bought his winning ticket from Parkers Quick Stop & Deli on West Fourth Street in Dequincy.

Bonus Crossword is a $3 scratch-off game that offers players the chance to win up to $30,000. The game has one remaining top prize as of Feb. 3. 

Players must be at least 21 years old to purchase a Lottery ticket.  The Lottery encourages anyone who has a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867 for help. For security purposes, the Lottery also encourages players to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchasing. A list of current scratch-off games and prizes remaining can be found on the Lottery's Web site, www.louisianalottery.com.