LANSING, May 19, 2000 — Mark Lougee of Mexico, New York took a bite out of the Michigan Lottery after scratching off a Michigan Lottery "The Big Dog" instant ticket to reveal he won a $25,000 top prize!

The 46-year-old winner purchased the lucky ticket at Total #8718, 2670 M-139, in Benton Harbor. Lougee could hardly believe his eyes when he saw what he had won.

"I scratched off the ticket and stared at it in disbelief," Lougee said. "You never think you are actually going to win. I couldn’t stop shaking!"

The asbestos worker in Syracuse, New York said he plays Michigan Lottery instant games whenever he visits the state.

Prior to turning the winning ticket in at the Lottery’s regional office in Wyoming, Lougee said he kept it in his briefcase to ensure its safety.

The lucky man said he doesn’t have any special plans for his winnings yet. He added that he will leave that decision up to his wife, Mary!

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

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