In the small town of Mitchell, Illinois, Amber Ronk, owner of 508 Variety Shop, is celebrating after her store sold a $1 million winning Mega Millions ticket. The lucky ticket, purchased for the January 16 drawing, has brought excitement to this community of just over 1,000 residents.
Located at 508 E. Chain of Rocks Road, 508 Variety Shop is a local hub where Ronk believes the winner is likely a regular customer. “90% of our customers are local residents who come in almost every day,” she said, expressing her eagerness to find out who the winner is.
Ronk’s connection to the store is personal and deep-rooted. She began as a cashier fourteen years ago, eventually marrying the son of the owner and later purchasing the shop after her father-in-law’s unexpected passing. “It’s been a learning process, and it’s been a wonderful experience,” Ronk reflected on her journey.
For selling the winning ticket, 508 Variety Shop will receive a $10,000 bonus. Ronk plans to use some of this bonus for a much-needed vacation with her family, citing the stresses and challenges of business ownership.
The winning Mega Millions numbers for the January 16 drawing were 2, 10, 42, 49, 54, with a Megaplier number of 13, resulting in the $1,000,000 prize.
