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Morrison biker wins $1.9 million Lotto

Published August 10, 2007 at midnight

Joseph Jurak of Morrison had already upgraded his 2001 Harley to a 2007 model, his 13th bike, but he can add just about any accessories he wants with his $1.9 million Lotto winnings.

The retired dentist, who has played the same six numbers since Lotto started in 1989, hit the jackpot on Aug. 1 with 10, 12, 15, 20, 22 and 24, according to a Colorado Lottery news release.

He came close once before, matching five numbers when Lotto reached its record of $27 million in 1992.

"I thought either God loves me, hates me or is playing with me," said Jurak, who plans to use the funds to help his family and friends. Jurak selected the cash option, which totaled $959,980 before taxes.

The probability of winning the jackpot is one in 5,245,786. Local Convenience Store, 1901 Wadsworth Blvd. in Lakewood, sold the winning ticket. The store receives a $5,000 bonus for selling the ticket.

Lottery proceeds in Jefferson County, which have totaled more than $137 million, have been used to improve community facilities, local parks and nature trails such as the Dinosaur Ridge Visitors Center, Clear Creek Whitewater Park, and Golden Gate Canyon State Park, the news release said.

Lottery proceeds are distributed to three primary beneficiaries: Great Outdoors Colorado, Conservation Trust Fund and Colorado State Parks.

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