NEW YORK — A Howard Beach resident is now a multimillionaire, with local handyman Frank DeMarco claiming the staggering $476 million Mega Millions jackpot from a drawing in late February 2026. The unexpected windfall has sent ripples of excitement and disbelief through the tightknit Queens community, prompting discussions about newfound wealth and local impact. Mr. DeMarco, 62, a familiar face who has repaired homes across Howard Beach for over three decades, opted for the cash payout, which totaled $256 million before taxes, according to the New York Lottery Commission. His winning ticket was purchased at the L & L Convenience Store on Cross Bay Boulevard, a popular spot for lottery players in the Lindenwood section. Local Reactions to the LifeChanging Win The news of DeMarco’s monumental win quickly spread through Howard Beach, becoming the primary topic of conversation at local eateries and community hubs. Residents expressed a mix of joy for their neighbor and speculation about how such a massive sum might change his life and potentially benefit the area. “Frank is a good man, always fair with his prices and quick with a joke,” said Maria Rodriguez, owner of Maria’s Deli on 156th Avenue, a few blocks from the winning store. “Everyone here knows him, and we’re all so happy for him. It gives us all a little hope, you know?” Local civic leaders have also weighed in, cautiously optimistic about the potential positive effects on the community. Jessica Chen, President of the Howard Beach Chamber of Commerce, told reporters that she hopes some of the wealth could be directed towards or local projects. The Financial Details of a Mega Jackpot The $476 million prize is one of the largest singleticket wins in New York State Lottery history, attracting national attention to the usually quiet Queens neighborhood. After federal and state taxes, Mr. DeMarco is expected to take home approximately $160 million, a sum that financial experts say requires careful planning. “A win of this magnitude fundamentally alters a person’s financial landscape, demanding expert legal and financial counsel,” explained Dr. Evelyn Reed, a professor of economics at Queens College, in an interview. “Establishing trusts, managing investments, and considering philanthropic endeavors are immediate priorities for such a large sum.” The New York Lottery confirmed that 50,000 smaller prizewinning tickets were also sold for the same drawing across the state, indicating widespread participation. The winning numbers were 15, 23, 30, 48, 59, and the Mega Ball was 13. What Comes Next for the Winner While Mr. DeMarco has largely remained out of the public eye since claiming his prize, sources close to his family indicate he plans to continue residing in Howard Beach. There have been rumors of modest upgrades to his home near Mill Pond and potential investments in local businesses. “He’s always been a humble man, and I don’t think that will change,” offered longtime friend and fellow handyman, Anthony Genovese, 65. “He’s talking about helping his kids, maybe taking a real vacation, but not moving away. Howard Beach is his home.” The local L & L Convenience Store, which received a $10,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket, has seen an uptick in lottery sales since the announcement. Store owner, Mr. Patel, expressed gratitude and excitement for the increased foot traffic and the local buzz. Broader Implications for Howard Beach The Mega Millions win not only changed one man's life but also injected a sense of possibility and pride into the entire Howard Beach community. It highlights the dreams associated with lottery games and how such wins can momentarily unite a neighborhood in shared excitement. The local media, including Queens Daily Eagle, has provided extensive coverage of the win, charting its journey from ticket purchase to public announcement. This story has momentarily overshadowed as a dominant local narrative. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Who was the Howard Beach Mega Millions winner? A: Frank DeMarco, a 62yearold local handyman from the Lindenwood section of Howard Beach, claimed the $476 million Mega Millions jackpot in February 2026. Q: Where was the winning ticket purchased? A: The winning ticket was bought at the L & L Convenience Store located on Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach. Q: What was the total amount Mr. DeMarco received after taxes? A: Opting for the cash payout of $256 million, Mr. DeMarco is estimated to receive approximately $160 million after federal and state tax withholdings. Q: How has the community reacted to the news? A: The Howard Beach community has reacted with widespread excitement and pride for Mr. DeMarco, with many local residents and business owners expressing happiness for their neighbor and discussing the potential positive impacts on the area. Q: Are there any plans for community contributions from the winnings? A: While Mr. DeMarco has not made any public statements regarding community contri
