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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Powerball ticket problems on Ga. machines

A sign on a doorway advertises the Georgia Lottery as a customer enters a convenience store, Monday, Nov. 26, 2012, in Atlanta. As the Powerball jackpot soars, a Georgia Lottery official says the agency is working to get its equipment operational again after some machines have been down. Georgia Lottery spokeswoman Kimberly Starks confirmed that some machines were not working properly. She said Monday afternoon that lottery officials are aware of the situation, and are working to correct the problems. (David Goldman / Associated Press)
Jeff Martin Associated Press

ATLANTA (AP) — As the Powerball jackpot soars, the Georgia Lottery is trying to repair some of its machines that are taking a long time to process tickets.

The delays seem to be angering customers eager to place their bets.

Lottery spokeswoman Kimberly Starks could not say how widespread the problem was Monday or provide other details.

The lottery on its Facebook page apologized to customers and said the terminals are downloading upgraded software.

Wednesday’s Powerball jackpot is $425 million.

Officials couldn’t say exactly when the problems with the Georgia machines began or how many were affected.

James Lee said the machine in his downtown Atlanta convenience store was running slowly Monday afternoon as customers lined up for tickets.

He says the delay has led to arguments between annoyed customers.

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Associated Press writer Phillip Lucas contributed to this report.