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Keeping Up with the Joneses; Idaho Man Almost Throws Away $200,000-Winning Ticket

Every now and then there are heartwarming stories during the holiday season that just make you believe that good luck does happen and good things do come to those who are deserving.

On December 18, 2011, believing he had a non-winning ticket, Donny Jones of Idaho Falls nearly threw his $1 Powerball ticket away.

At the encouragement of his wife, Connie, he checked the remaining numbers on his ticket. They all matched. Except for the Power number.

Jones was a $200,000 Powerball winner.

“I just don’t believe I’m the big winner!” exclaimed Jones when he officially claimed his ticket. I’m still stunned.”

Born with a disability, Jones has lived in Idaho Falls since 1970 and has overcome many challenges in his life. He has worked for the Hometown Kitchen Restaurant on 17^th Street in Idaho Falls for the past 16 years, starting as a dishwasher and working his way up to being the cook. He’s been married to Connie for the past 10 years.

“Winning made for a good Christmas,” added Jones who plans to do something nice for his wife after paying off bills with his winnings.

“Holy mackerel!” said Jones when the final check was placed in his hands. “That’s good. Thank you very much.”