The Powerball jackpot hit $1.8 billion ahead of Saturday’s drawing, making it the second-largest and inspiring many to play.

© Dave Sanders for The New York Times

A Syrian immigrant in Southern California beat the odds — twice — and now some Powerball players see an ineffable magic at work in his store.

© Maggie Shannon for The New York Times

A Syrian immigrant in Southern California beat the odds — twice — and now some Powerball players see an ineffable magic at work in his store.

© Maggie Shannon for The New York Times