“Lutes Casino” owner wins $18,000

Smart & Final announced Tuesday that longtime Yuma resident and business owner Mike Lutes was selected as the winner of its 145 th Anniversary Sweepstakes. As the grand prize winner, Mr. Lutes had the option to take home a new 2016 Smart Car or $18,000 (the retail value of the car). Mr. Lutes chose the cash prize and was presented with the funds during a check presentation ceremony held yesterday at Smart & Final Yuma. The sweepstakes was organized by Smart & Final to celebrate 145 years of service to local communities and show its appreciation to household and business customers.

Mr. Lutes , the owner/operator of the popular Lutes Casino restaurant in downtown Yuma, was excited to win and plans to use the money to reinvest into his restaurant. He plans to update the building, purchase new equipment and make other improvements that will benefit restaurant patrons. Lutes shared that the restaurant has been in his family for three generations and he credits the community with much of their success. “The local community is everything. We were all born and raised here, and our customers have always remained loyal,” Lutes said.

Mr. Lutes said he visits Smart & Final several times a week to purchase items he needs for the restaurant. Smart & Final was so pleased that one of its long-time business customers was selected as the winner of the sweepstakes.