Eric Hale of Bend, is not only the second $1 million Powerball® winner from Oregon this year, but a candidate for the best brother ever.
“I usually play Powerball, sometimes Oregon’s Game Megabucks, because I like to dream big,” Hale said. “When I was a kid, I promised my brother that if I ever won the lottery, I would split it with him. He was my first call when I realized I won.”
Hale’s brother, Quinn Hale of Yakima, WA, said he couldn’t believe it when he got the call from his brother letting him know he was going to keep his childhood promise.
“I didn’t believe him, I still am in shock even though we have the checks,” Quinn Hale said. “This is beyond cool. I never believed he would actually do it.”
“Sure, I could have headed for Costa Rica, but I kept my promise,” Eric said.
Each brother took home roughly $335,000 after taxes. The winning ticket was from the September 24, Powerball drawing which had the top prize of more than $228 million. Eric picked five numbers but missed the Powerball. Eric said he waited to claim his prize so he could contact a financial advisor.
Eric said he purchased the ticket when he was on his way to visit his mother. He bought the ticket at the Quick Way Market in Bend and played the same numbers he has played for the past 20 years. Lottery retailers receive a 1-percent commission on all winning tickets over $10,000, so the market will receive $10,000.
Eric said he was going to invest some of the money and continue graduate school. Quinn said he was going to use the money to put a down payment on a motorhome and pay off bills.
Eric joins Don Ross of Medford as the second $1 million Powerball winner from Oregon this year.
The Oregon Lottery® reminds players to always sign the back of their lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Prize winners of more than $50,000 should contact the Lottery office to schedule an appointment to claim their prize.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned over $9 billion for economic development, public education, state parks and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org
