Rockville Landscaper Says Lottery Win Eases Tight Budget

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A spur-of-the moment purchase by landscaper Jose Beltran of Rockville netted him a $50,000 Maryland Lottery Monopoly scratch-off win, offsetting his slow business, he told the Maryland Lottery last week.

“I get some work in on the milder days, but there haven’t been too many mild days recently,” the 30-year-old said when he claimed his winnings. “I can keep up with my bills as long as nothing unexpected comes along.”

A once-a-week instant ticket player, Beltran was running an errand when he wound up next door to a Lottery retailer, the Asian Supermarket in Rockville.

“I saw that they sold tickets so I went in to see if they had my favorite one,” he said. That favorite scratch-off is Monopoly, which he said brings him a win more often than not. He tried his luck with a $5 ticket.

“I scratched it and didn’t see a win and was looking for a trash can,” he said. “Before tossing it, I took one more look.” That last glance brought the $50,000 prize he’d won into view. “I was very surprised … thrilled! I took a deep breath, trying to stay calm.”

Beltran says his Lottery winnings will carry him until spring brings nicer weather and a busier work schedule. “I’m not as worried now when the temperature drops,” he said.

After claiming his prize, Beltran headed home for a nap because his excitement kept him awake all night. Next on his agenda is a new car search.

The store will receive a $500 bonus from the lottery for selling the top-prize ticket.

»Photo of Jose Beltran of Rockville, courtesy of the Maryland Lottery

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