CHARLEROI, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Lottery, alongside officials from Giant Penn LLC (Exxon), presented a $1 million commemorative check to Michael Matyas, the winner of the Cash 5 with Quick Cash jackpot from the July 19 drawing. The check presentation took place at the Exxon station located at 1001 Maple Drive, Charleroi, where the winning ticket was sold.
Matyas, a 70-year-old resident of Washington County, purchased the ticket using Quick Pick on the day of the drawing but didn’t check it until two days later. “I was very surprised when I checked the ticket that Sunday,” Matyas said. “I had to look at the ticket about 10 times before believing it.”
Upon discovering his win, Matyas called his twin brother to share the exciting news, though he initially kept the reason for his call a mystery. “My brother said, ‘Well, he’s either sick or he hit the Lottery,’” Matyas recounted with a laugh.
Matyas, who retired from full-time work a decade ago and recently left a part-time job, plans to use his winnings to support his children, pay off bills, and spend more time golfing, his favorite hobby. “I’m still taking it all in. This whole experience has been fantastic,” he said.
Pat Browne, Secretary of Revenue, congratulated Matyas, saying, “Congratulations to Michael on this life-changing prize. We’d also like to congratulate our retailer, Giant Penn LLC (Exxon), for selling the big Cash 5 winner. Thanks to our loyal players and retailers, the PA Lottery is able to continue generating proceeds to pay for life-sustaining programs and services our senior population relies upon.”
Cari Mackesy, manager of Giant Penn LLC (Exxon), echoed the excitement, stating, “We are incredibly excited for him. Our sincerest congratulations to him!” The retailer will receive a $5,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket.
