Wethersfield Man Wins 'Wedding Money' in Connecticut Lottery

ROCKY HILL, CT — In the words of Connecticut Lottery officials, "It’s been a wonderful couple of months" for James Stavola Jr. of Wethersfield.

In March, Stavola Jr. became engaged to his longtime girlfriend. He celebrated his birthday and received the best present the following day when he welcomed a newborn baby girl.

Then, lottery officials said, Stavola cashed in $25,000 on a “$250,000 Cashword 2” instant ticket.

According to lottery officials, Stavola was getting his morning coffee before work and decided to buy a ticket to play afterwards. Stavola Jr. told lottery officials he couldn’t believe it when he finished playing.

“I scanned it three times and shook (the clerk’s) hand,” he told lottery officials.

Stavola Jr. then celebrated with his fiancé while he met with Lottery officials,

“This is wedding money,” he said.

The couple has been together for five years and will use some of the money for a "destination wedding," according to lottery officials.

When asked to sum up his winning experience, an excited Stavola Jr. simply responded with a smile and said, “Disbelief.”

For selling the winning ticket, Krauszer’s Food Store located on 357 Cromwell Avenue will receive a $250 check from the CT Lottery.

Photo Credit: CT Lottery