A.L. businesses sold $160,000 in tickets as of Saturday

More than $160,000 in sales have been made in the Powerball drawing in Albert Lea since November in connection with the now record-setting, $1.5 billion jackpot.

Minnesota Lottery Communications Manager Debbie Hoffmann said $160,676 was raised in Powerball sales in Albert Lea between Nov. 7 and Saturday.

“Players are having fun with it; beneficiaries are benefiting from the run,” Hoffmann said.

Hoffmann expects approximately $15 million to $20 million in Minnesota sales before tonight’s drawing.

She said lottery sales from Nov. 7 to Jan. 9 reached $30 million in Minnesota; $12.9 million has been raised for the state, including $6.7 million for the general fund and $5.4 million for environmental funds.

She said about $13 million was raised in lottery sales in Minnesota for Saturday night’s drawing alone.

Hoffmann advised players to have fun but to live within their means when playing the lottery.

Albert Lea resident Cody Haroldson said he’s bought eight tickets since the Powerball reached $200 million.

“For a shot,” Haroldson said. “Live life a little bit.”

Haroldson said he would continue working even if he won the lottery.

“That’s how I was raised, to stay busy,” he said.

Haroldson said he would donate 70 percent of his prize to charities and his church.

“Money changes people, and I don’t want to be one of those people,” he said.

Pete Kleinschmidt said he doesn’t play the lottery.

“I don’t want to get my hopes up,” Kleinschmidt said.

The Multi-State Lottery Association encouraged all lottery players to be responsible in their amount of play. The association advised against spending more than you can afford on any lottery product.

The organization advised anyone or anyone who knows someone with a gambling problem to call 1-800-522-4700 for help.