LANSING, April 18, 2000 — Melvin Kuhens of Berrien Springs recently struck it rich after scratching off a Michigan Lottery "Casino Nights" instant ticket to reveal he had won a $10,000 prize!

The lucky man purchased the winning ticket at Mel’s Market, 6770 U.S. Highway 31 N, in Berrien Springs.

"I scratched the ticket off and couldn’t believe what I was seeing," Kuhens said. "I just stared at the ticket in disbelief!"

When not collecting guns, Kuhens said he enjoys playing Michigan Lottery games. He added that he has been playing Lottery games for the past five years and his favorites are Michigan Lotto, The Big Game, Michigan Rolldown and, of course, instant tickets!

Prior to turning the winning ticket in at the Lottery’s regional office in Wyoming, the self-employed store owner said he made a photocopy of it and kept the original ticket in a safe place. Kuhens said he plans to use his winnings to pay bills.

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

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