WEST PALM BEACH- — The fattest jackpot since Florida became part of Powerball - $222 million - had tickets flying out of the machines at a rate of $850 per minute Tuesday.

That was up from $660 the night before as Floridians lined up for a crack at what is currently the largest jackpot in the world, according to lottery officials.

The odds of winning the big prize remain long - one in 195 million - but a ticket buys at least a rich fantasy life until tonight's drawing at 10:59.

Michael Alexander could think of ways to spend that bailout package.

New house. Helping family and friends pinched by a slow economy. Charity. And OK, vintage Mercedes with gull wings.



"This is the biggest jackpot I've ever heard of," said Alexander of West Palm Beach, who endured a short wait to buy a ticket at a gas station on Okeechobee Boulevard.

Florida Lottery spokeswoman Amanda Marquardt said temporary terminals have been added in Miami, Orlando and Tallahassee.

"This the largest Powerball that Floridians have been able to play since we became part of it Jan. 4," she said.

The current series of Powerball jackpot rollovers has generated $23.2 million for education since April 11.

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