Schenectady, NY – Sixty-five-year-old retired contractor Gail McChesney of Cassadaga has built garages all his life. However, building up a bigger bank account was not what he expected when he scratched the $3,000,000 top prize on the New York Lottery’s Money Money Money instant game.

The Lottery’s newest drawing personality Gretchen Dizer, a Tonawanda native, presented McChesney his winning prize check during her first ever public appearance at Fairgrounds Gaming & Raceway.

“I bought the ticket because it looked different,” said McChesney. “Usually I only spend a couple bucks. But it was a miserable rainy day and I decided to splurge a little. I think I made the right decision, he laughed.”

McChesney purchased his winning ticket on June 10, 2008 at Kwik Fill on North Main Street in Cassadaga. He claimed it the next day at the Lottery’s Customer Service Center in Buffalo.

“McChesney said he planned to use his $3,000,000 prize to help with his retirement. “The extra money will come in handy to pay off bills, my mortgage, and buy a new car.”

The father of six and grandfather of eight is an avid NASCAR fan and enjoys spending his time fishing and relaxing at his camp.

“I’m an easy going guy,” said McChesney. I’m really happy about my win, and I’m looking forward to sitting around the camp fire with my mind at ease.”

McChesney will receive his prize in 20 annual payments of $150,000, less required tax withholdings. His annual net check will total $102,225.

The New York Lottery contributed nearly $2.6 billion to help support education in New York State on revenues of $7.549 billion in fiscal year 2007-08 - - a profit margin of 34.3%. Last year, the Lottery’s earnings accounted for over 13% of total state education funding. The New York Lottery continues to be North America’s largest and most profitable Lottery, earning over $34.2 billion in education support statewide since its founding over 40 years ago.