October 21, 2011 -- When Raymond “Ray” Merlo, Jr. of Windsor Locks ran out of coffee creamer the other day, he hopped in his car and set out to Hav-Mor Market, located at 24 South Elm Street in Windsor to pick up a carton.  He also purchased a CT Lottery “5 Card Stud” instant game ticket.  Before leaving his parking space, Merlo changed his mind and went back inside to purchase just one more ticket.  “Don’t you know, that was the $55,000 winning ticket,” Merlo told Lottery officials with a grin.

Before his big win, Merlo, a retired construction worker, said he was always a fan of the card game 5 Card Stud.  “I used to play cards years ago, and I really liked the game,’” said Merlo.  When Merlo revealed a ‘hand’ with a ‘Royal Flush,’ he immediately knew that he won the game’s $55,000 top prize.  “I still had to look ten times at the ticket.  I didn’t believe it, really, until the clerk scanned my ticket for me.”

Merlo arrived at CT Lottery headquarters in Rocky Hill recently to accept his prize check for $37,566 (value after taxes), he was clearly excited about his big win—his largest win ever.  “Three years ago I won $1,000.  Today I won $55,000.  Hopefully, I’ll see you again soon,” Merlo quipped.

For selling Merlo his top prize winning ticket, Hav-Mor Market will receive a $550 bonus check from the CT Lottery.