The $100 Million Bronx Winner: Johnnie Ely’s Tale

Johnnie Ely from the Bronx became New York’s first $100 million lottery winner in 1999 with the now-defunct Millennium Millions game. His win was a landmark moment for the New York Lottery, setting a new standard for big wins.

Ely, who worked as a cable TV installer, opted for the cash option, receiving $50 million pre-tax. His win was celebrated not just for its size but for his down-to-earth attitude, planning to help his family and friends while keeping his job.

The publicity surrounding Ely’s win helped the lottery’s public image, with many seeing him as a symbol of the American Dream. However, it also brought to light the challenges of sudden wealth, including privacy issues and managing public expectations.

Ely’s story remains one of the most memorable in New York’s lottery history, demonstrating how a win can impact not just the winner but their community and the perception of the lottery itself.