KALAMAZOO — A Kalamazoo woman is the latest Michigan Lottery millionaire after turning a $20 Mega Millions purchase into a $3 million prize.
Carol Bukant, 79, matched all five white balls in the November 14 Mega Millions drawing, winning $1 million. Her prize increased to $3 million because of the game’s built-in 3X multiplier.
Bukant bought the winning ticket at JJ Land LLC on West Centre Avenue in Portage during the recent Mega Millions jackpot run, when the top prize reached $980 million.
Michigan Lottery officials said large jackpot runs benefit players and help boost funding for the state School Aid Fund through increased ticket sales.
Bukant recently claimed the prize at Lottery headquarters and plans to save the winnings.
Mega Millions tickets cost $5 and are sold statewide, with non-jackpot prizes multiplied up to 10 times.
The Michigan Lottery says nearly every dollar spent supports public schools, prizes, and retailers.