ROCHELLE – The Queen of Hearts drawing at Floyd J. Tilton VFW Post #3878 in Rochelle ended on February 25, 2025, with a record-breaking jackpot of $705,330. Lauri Hays of Rochelle was the winning ticket holder, receiving 65% of the prize—$458,464.50 before taxes. The remaining 35%, totaling $246,865.50, was split between the post and 22 local and veteran-related organizations, each receiving varied amounts to support services ranging from therapeutic programs to food assistance and veterans’ memorials.
Organizations receiving funding included the VFW National Home ($25,000), Foundation for Focus House ($9,500), HOPE of Ogle County ($7,500), and Tunnels 2 Towers ($10,000). Other recipients included local clubs such as the Rochelle Lions, Kiwanis, and Rotary Clubs, as well as veteran-centered groups like DarkHorse Lodge, Oscar Mike, and the Eastern Lee-Ogle Honor Guard. Donations supported services for veterans, children, seniors, survivors of abuse, and at-risk families throughout the region.
A new round of the Queen of Hearts game began on April 22, 2025, starting with a jackpot of $94,620. Changes to the rules were introduced to increase player winnings and add clarity. Prizes for drawing non-winning cards have been raised, and a Second Chance Drawing has been added to give present ticket holders a new way to win. If no winner is present after five Second Chance draws, the jackpot rolls over weekly until it reaches $1,000, at which point a winner must be selected.
The VFW welcomes the public to participate in the Queen of Hearts game and other post activities. Membership is not required to join in, and guests are invited to enjoy food, drinks, and gaming at the post in Rochelle. Proceeds from these events continue to support veterans and charitable efforts in the community.