th On January 12, 2023, a resident of Albert Lea, Minnesota, turned a casual visit to the Diamond Jo Worth Casino in Northwood, Iowa, into an unforgettable moment. With just a $5 bet on the “Wheel of Fortune® 2x3x4x5x Super Times Pay” slot machine by IGT, he hit a progressive jackpot of $93,522.56 — a life-changing win.
The Diamond Jo Worth Casino
Just across the Minnesota border, Diamond Jo Worth Casino is a well-known destination for gaming and entertainment. Boasting around 800 slot machines, 27 table games, a hotel, several restaurants, and an event center, the property is owned by Boyd Gaming, which also operates the Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque, Iowa.
The “Wheel of Fortune® 2x3x4x5x Super Times Pay” Slot Machine
This particular slot machine is among the most popular at the casino. With a classic setup of 5 reels and 3 rows, it offers a variety of winning combinations and a “Super Times Pay” multiplier feature that can significantly boost payouts. The progressive jackpot begins at $20,000 and increases each time someone plays without hitting it — until someone, like our Minnesota man, gets lucky.
The Winner: John Forman
The winner, John Forman, isn’t what you’d call an avid gambler. He usually joins his siblings — brother Bob and sister Bonnie — on Friday mornings for casual play. John had heard the jackpot on that specific “Wheel of Fortune” slot was rising and due to hit soon. After previously inserting $20 without success, he returned for another try. This time, he placed a modest $5 bet — and struck gold.
His Reaction? Tax Worries, First
When asked what went through his mind upon realizing he’d won, John laughed: “The first thing I thought was, ‘There go my taxes.’” Even though taxes might take a bite out of the winnings, he expressed nothing but gratitude for his good fortune.
More Than Just a Casino
Diamond Jo Worth isn’t merely a casino — it’s a regional entertainment hub. In addition to gaming, the venue features a 162-room hotel, upscale dining options like Woodfire Grille, the Kitchen Buffet, and an event center that can host nearly 600 guests. The casino has also shown strong community ties; recently, it donated $25,000 to the Hawkeye Harvest Food Bank, reinforcing its commitment to local support and philanthropy.
Previous Big Winners
John isn’t the only one to strike it rich here. Over the years, Diamond Jo Worth has seen several high-stakes winners. Players like Codey D., who won $22,030 on “Lightning Cash,” and Crystal T., who hit $14,971 on “Buffalo Inferno,” are part of a growing list of lucky patrons. These stories continue to make Diamond Jo Worth a destination of choice for casual players and serious gamblers alike.
Community Feedback and Reviews
As with any high-traffic entertainment venue, visitor feedback is mixed. While many guests appreciate the wide selection of games and amenities, others have voiced concerns — particularly about customer service. One TripAdvisor reviewer noted: “Drink service still sucks. Very inattentive staff, bartender rude as hell…” Such comments serve as a reminder that even casinos with major success stories must strive for consistent service excellence.
Wrapping It Up
John Forman’s win is a classic reminder that big rewards can come from small bets. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious, Diamond Jo Worth offers both high-stakes thrills and casual fun. And who knows? If luck strikes again, the next headline might just be yours.
