N.J. Retailers Hit Jackpot

New Jersey convenience store operators looking for a way to drive in-store sales volume got a boost yesterday as the state Lottery Commission kicked off afternoon drawings of two popular lottery games.The commission said the New Jersey Pick 3 -- the state's oldest lottery game -- and Pick 4 should benefit store owners, as well as state coffers. The new drawings are in addition to existing evening drawings. "It's an addition that's here to stay," said Annette Jenkins, a lottery spokeswoman. She said 10 other states had midday lottery drawings. Money from the lottery goes to education, centers for the developmentally disabled, psychiatric hospitals and other state programs.