“I’m purchasing new pews for the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Howell.  That’s the first order of business for my winnings!”

That was the first thing active parishioner and newly minted Mega Millions winner Paul Turner told Michigan Lottery staffers.  “I’ve been contributing $10 a month for years to try and get those pews purchased.  Now that I’ve won $250,000 I can fulfill my pledge all at once!” Turner said.

Turner purchased his winning ticket at Woodland Party Store Too located at 8064 Grand River Rd. in Brighton.  Easy picks are all that Turner plays now.  He used to play his children’s birthdays and other special numbers for years the numbers failed to pay off.

The Mega Millions jackpot skyrocketed to a massive $656 million once all sales closed on Friday, March 30 at 10:45 p.m.  Once the dust settled, Turner was one of six Michigan players to match 5 white balls to win $250,000 in the historic Mega Millions drawing.  In fact, 636,136 Michigan players won a combined total of $4,573,224!

Over 95 cents of every dollar spent on Lottery tickets is returned to the state in the form of contributions to the state School Aid Fund, prizes to players and commissions to retailers. In fiscal year 2011, the contribution to schools was over $727.3 million. Since its inception in 1972, the Lottery has contributed over $16 billion to education in Michigan.

For information on all Lottery games, please visit the Lottery’s Web site at www.michiganlottery.com. 

“The Michigan Lottery. All across the state good things happen.”

Contact:  Andi Brancato, PR Director  517-335-5648
Agency:  Michigan Lottery Public Relations