RALEIGH – Mickey Pruitt, a machine operator from Lincolnton, said that after 10 years of marriage he and his wife can finally go on a honeymoon thanks to winning a $1 million lottery prize.

“I’m still in shock,” he said as he collected his prize money at lottery headquarters. “It was unreal.”

Pruitt bought his lucky $10 ticket for the 50X The Cash game Thursday night at the Kingsway on Aspen Street in Lincolnton and scratched it off inside the store. Pruitt said the clerk was elated when she found out how much he won.

“I think she was more excited than I was,” he recalled.

Pruitt could have claimed his $1 million prize in 20 annuity payments of $50,000 but opted for the $600,000 lump sum. He said the after-tax winnings of $415,503 would make a big difference for his family.

“We’re going to buy our first house together, no more renting,” Pruitt said.

As of Monday, three top prizes of $1 million remain to be claimed in the 50X The Cash game.

Ticket sales made it possible for the lottery to raise more than half a billion for the state last year. For details on how more than $23.9 million in lottery funds have made a difference for specific education programs in Lincoln County, click on the “Where the Money Goes” tab on the lottery’s website.