New York Lottery players are on a hot streak! Two lucky residents, Daniel Phillips and Francis Cangemi, have recently claimed $1 million prizes from separate scratch-off games, turning their fortunes around with a single ticket. Phillips, from West Monroe in Oswego County, won playing the "Millionaire Maker" scratch-off, while Cangemi, an East Northport resident, struck gold with the "$1,000,000 Gold" game.
Millionaire Maker Strikes in Brewerton
Daniel Phillips purchased his winning ticket at Kinney Drugs in Brewerton, New York. He opted for a lump-sum payment of $651,000 after withholdings. Lottery officials confirmed that five $1 million prizes are still available in the "Millionaire Maker" game, which costs $20 per ticket. The odds of winning the top prize are 1 in 3.9 million.
East Northport Resident Finds Gold in Selden
Francis Cangemi purchased his lucky ticket at Half Off Cards in Selden. He also chose the lump-sum payment option, receiving $670,000 after withholdings. Half Off Cards celebrated the win with a banner proclaiming, "Top prize winner sold here!" Three $1 million prizes remain to be claimed on the "$1,000,000 Gold" ticket, which sells for $5.
How to Check Your Tickets
Players can check the status of any New York Lottery scratch-off game by downloading the Game Report at nylottery.ny.gov. The New York Lottery is North America’s largest and most profitable lottery, contributing $3.6 billion in fiscal year 2024–2025 to benefit public schools in New York State.
Responsible Gambling
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, help is available. Resources include NYProblemGamblingHelp.org, the HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369), and texting HOPENY (467369). You can also call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net for more information.