LANSING, December 7, 1999 — Alvin Kerns of Greenville started celebrating the holidays early this year after winning a $10,000 prize in the Michigan Lottery’s "Stocking Stuffer" instant game!

"I scratched off the ticket just after purchasing it," Kerns said. "It was such a surprise to have won. It made me very happy!"

When not fishing, hunting or golfing, the 51-year-old winner said he enjoys playing Michigan Lottery games. He said he has been playing Lottery games for the past 15 years and his favorites are Michigan Lotto, The Big Game and, of course, the instant games!

The winning ticket was purchased at Meijer, Inc. #3, 2750 S. State Road, in Ionia. Kerns, a factory worker at Steelcase, Inc., said he plans to use his winnings to pay bills and purchase Christmas gifts.

Prior to turning the winning ticket in at the Lottery’s regional office in Wyoming, Kerns said he kept it in a kitchen cupboard to ensure its safety.

"Stocking Stuffer" is just one of many Michigan Lottery instant tickets available at more than 9,300 Michigan Lottery retailers statewide.