LANSING, January 7, 1999 – Paul Barton of Allen Park was truly surprised on Christmas Day when he scratched off a Michigan Lottery "Surprise Package" instant ticket and realized he had won $25,000!

"The ticket was a Christmas gift from my dad," said the 20-year old winner.  "I scratched the ticket off while my dad was sitting right in front of me.  I was completely surprised that I had won that much money!"

The winning ticket was purchased at Ashcrafts Little Store, 7343 Park Ave., in Allen Park.

Prior to turning in the winning ticket at the Lottery’s regional office in Redford Township, Barton hid the ticket under his clock radio for safe keeping.  The student said he plans to use his winnings to help pay for his college education.

"Surprise Package" is a popular $5 holiday-themed ticket with a top instant prize of $250,000!  Michigan Lottery instant tickets are available at more than 9,300 Michigan Lottery retailers statewide.

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