Austin News
Cedar Park jackpot winner makes plans for winnings 
07:55 PM CDT on Thursday, May 8, 2008
Among the shady oaks and hibiscus plants, not a lot happens in one quiet Cedar Park neighborhood. But lately, the bees aren’t the only ones creating a buzz.
A Las Vegas vacation for a Cedar Park woman and her husband has changed everything.
Connie Thiele, 58, put a $3 bet on a Megabucks slot machine at the Palms Casino Resort. On the very first pull, she won $21 million.
The state employee isn't sure what her future holds, but she is certain of one thing
“It's a great feeling," said Thiele.
KVUE News spoke with Thiele by phone from Vegas. She and her husband vacation there every year. They like to gamble at the Palms Hotel in hopes of seeing celebrities. But now, they are the celebrities
“Oh, it's off the chart,” said neighbor Donna Strebe.
Strebe says the Thieles are quiet, friendly people, with a lot to look forward to.
Neighbors say this family would actually have garage sales about once a month, but they doubt those garage sales will continue.
“I think my husband’s going to donate whatever we have,” said Thiele.
"God bless them and take care, and if you feel like sharing it with the neighborhood, I'm right here," said one neighbor.
Thiele won’t be sharing the winnings with neighbors -- rather her three children. She says she'll also pay some bills and travel.
They do plan on moving, but not far from the Cedar Park neighborhood they called home for 15 years.
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