Lottery sales jump as Mega Millions jackpot grows

(NECN: Katie Daly, Worcester, Mass.) – Stores were bustling Tuesday, filled with customers hoping to strike it rich tonight. The Mega Millions jackpot stands at 252 million dollars. It’s the biggest in a year and a half. The Park Avenue Pharmacy in Worcester is a popular place for people to chase the dream. “We’ve been consistently ranked in the top two in lottery sales in the city and we are the number one pharmacy in the state for lottery sales.” The pharmacy usually sees an increase in sales when the jackpot climbs this high, plus it doesn’t hurt to have some fortunate customers. Others think their chances are stronger in “numbers” literally. “We have a pool at work. After taxes we get 2.4 million each but I’m not greedy I’ll take a little. Every bit helps.” And those who say they have the winning ticket know exactly what they will do with all that cash. Lottery officials estimate that more than three million tickets will be sold today in the 12 states that participate in Mega Millions. And if there is no winner tonight Friday’s jackpot will be even bigger meaning for some that case of lottery fever will get much worst.