LANSING, November 28, 2005 – Ricky Timmons made it all the way to Georgia before he realized the Mega Millions ticket he purchased in Michigan matched all five white calls and was worth $250,000.

The lucky man was traveling through Michigan and decided to take a chance on the Mega Millions game. He purchased the winning ticket at 76 Auto Truck Plaza, 460 76the St. SW, in Byron Center.

The Mega Millions prize structure changed beginning with the June 24 drawing when California became part of the Mega Millions game. The previous prize for matching five white balls, without matching the Mega ball, was $175,000.

Timmons made his way back to Michigan to claim his prize, but not without purchasing a new truck first. He has no plans for the rest of his winnings.

Mega Millions is a multi-state lottery game in Michigan, California, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Wagers cost $1 each and tickets may be purchased at more than 10,000 Michigan Lottery retailers statewide.

All proceeds from the Lottery are contributed to the state School Aid Fund which supports kindergarten through 12th grade public education in Michigan. In fiscal year 2004, the contribution was $667.6 million.

For additional information, please visit the Lottery’s Web site at www.michigan.gov/lottery.

# # #