November 16, 2012 -- Art Daniel of New London is a self-described Jack of All Trades—he works as a taxi driver, a department store cashier, and a comedy hypnotist who has been performing for more than 20 years.  After receiving a “nice tip” from one of his fares, Daniel stopped to pick up something to drink along with a CT Lottery “$250,000 Spectacular” instant game ticket.  “It was the lucky number 13 that gave me the $250,000 top prize,” Daniel said, smiling broadly. “I’m still dumbfounded at the moment!”

“First, I had the clerk scan and validate the ticket.  Then, I stopped at my friend’s house to tell her about it,” Daniel said.  Shortly after, Daniel arrived at CT Lottery headquarters in Rocky Hill to accept his prize for $170,751 (value after taxes).

“I want to be smart with the money,” Daniel told lottery officials.  “Pay off my bills, maybe buy a house and put some money into marketing my hypnosis business.  I’ll meet with a financial planner to help me decide what’s best.”

For selling Daniel his top prize winning $250,000 Spectacular ticket, Starr Wood Village Market, located at 733 Colonel Ledyard Highway in Ledyard, will receive a $2,500 bonus check from the CT Lottery.