Saying “yes” to Encore paid off for Charles and Bonnie Parker of Chatham.
They matched the last six of seven Encore numbers in exact order in the June 8, 2024 Lottario draw to win $100,000.
OLG officials say Charles and Bonnie, retired great grandparents, are celebrating their first big win after playing the lottery with OLG for 30 years.
They enjoy playing Lottario, Ontario 49, and Lotto 6/49.
Whether they opt for a Quick Pick ticket or choose numbers that correlate to special birthdays and dates, the couple always makes sure to add Encore to their tickets, OLG officials say.
“I went to the store to purchase our next set of tickets when I decided to check this one. I think I scanned it about three times when I saw what we won. I thought to myself, ‘What’s wrong with this machine?’ and headed home to tell Bonnie,” Charles said, while visiting the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up their winnings.
“When he told me the news, he was a little shaky and I kept telling him to stay calm. I like to think I was calm and collected,” Bonnie laughed.
“It’s so hard to explain this feeling. We didn’t expect it, so it’s a little overwhelming.”
With their windfall, Charles and Bonnie plan to take care of some personal responsibilities and plan a family gathering.
The winning ticket was purchased at Corner Smoke and Convenience on McNaughton Avenue in Chatham.
