Family’s Lucky Break: $1 Million Win at Orange County Fair
A Chance Encounter Turns into a Lifelong Dream
Thomas Shellabarger, a regular visitor to the Orange County Fair, has been buying California Lottery Scratchers tickets at the fair’s CA Lottery Live! booth every year. This summer, his family’s day got delayed by a day, but he still made it a point to keep up with tradition. Little did he know, this time would be different.
A $1 Million Win
Shellabarger purchased a Multiplier Crazegame Lottery ticket on the second day of the fair. Initially, he thought he had won $100,000, but his wife took a second look and noticed the extra comma. "My knees buckled, and I had to sit down," he recalled. After claiming his prize, the California Lottery officials vetted the legitimacy of the ticket, a process that takes a couple of months.
A Lucky Break
Shellabarger reflected on his experience, saying, "I’ve never thought to myself, ‘I’m going to win the lottery, I’m going to be rich.’ It’s always been I’ll put my dollars in and hope for the best." He added, "I honestly can’t believe I won the Lottery." The owner of the retailer that worked the CA Lottery Live! booth that day will receive $5,000 for selling a winning ticket.
Conclusion
This story serves as a reminder that sometimes, taking a chance can lead to life-changing outcomes. For the Shellabarger family, their annual trip to the Orange County Fair turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As they bask in the glory of their $1 million win, they will surely cherish the memories of that fateful day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How did Thomas Shellabarger win the $1 million prize?
A: Shellabarger purchased a Multiplier Crazegame Lottery ticket at the Orange County Fair’s CA Lottery Live! booth.
Q: What was the original amount Shellabarger thought he had won?
A: He initially thought he had won $100,000.
Q: How did Shellabarger’s wife notice the extra comma?
A: She took a second look at the ticket and noticed the extra comma, which changed the winning amount from $100,000 to $1 million.
Q: What is the process for vetting the legitimacy of winning tickets?
A: The California Lottery officials conduct a verification process that takes a couple of months to ensure the legitimacy of winning tickets.
