When deciding between pizza or a burger for lunch, one California family might tell you to choose pizza.
Northern California man McKinley Nelson, 72, and his wife’s craving for the beloved Italian dish paid off massively, with their visit leading them to a $1 million prize, according to the California Lottery.
The Yolo County couple visited a Wine & Liquor store, which shares its building with Round Table Pizza, in the city of Winters, located about 40 miles west of Sacramento. Needing some change to tip service, Nelson broke a $100 bill by purchasing two lottery tickets.
“I think it was $20, and I went to the truck and started scratching,” Nelson told lottery officials in a news release.
The retired veteran said he recalls telling his wife: “I think this one’s a million, but I’m not sure.”
The pair proceeded to check their winning ticket through the California Lottery app, which verified he has scored a jackpot prize.
‘My wife almost had a heart attack’
The pair were in near complete disbelief that their decision to tip became incredibly and instantly profitable.
“So, my wife almost had a heart attack,” Nelson said. “And then we had to go in and buy the pizza. It was all because of her, she’s the one that likes the pizza.”
McKinley said he has played the California Lottery for 40 years, the news release stated.
“It took a long time to win,” he quipped.
With the money, Nelson said he will pay off his home, save a portion of it and also purchase a camper van, according to the California Lottery. With their new recreational vehicle, they plan drive to visit McKinley’s family and even further to see his wife’s family.
Where can you buy lottery tickets?
Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.
You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.
Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any State Lottery. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visitjackpocket.com/tos for full terms.
