Popular 'lucky store' celebrates racking up 6 winning million-dollar jackpots in a year
In the heart of Newburgh, New York, a remarkable story unfolds at a local shop named Smokes 4 Less.
But this isn't just any modest off-road store.
It's an attraction for those dreaming of winning big in the lottery.
This small shop has become a beacon of hope for many players in the district.
And that’s because it has sold an astonishing number of lottery tickets.
In fact, six million-dollar lotto tickets since November last year.
And the town knows too as you walk past Smokes 4 Less and see a line of hopeful people, each waiting for their chance to buy a chance that could change their life forever.
It's a sight that has become common around the area for locals.
"It's worth it if you win," shares Tony Wright about traveling there.
He’s a hopeful customer who journeyed 85 miles from Brooklyn to Newburgh for the prospect of a big win.
And with the Newburgh store having recently sold a $2 million winning Powerball ticket, Tony's optimism doesn't seem misplaced.
The store's winning streak is legendary.
With the sale of two seven-figure tickets in January and two $1 million tickets within a mere three days in November, Smokes 4 Less is setting records.
For regulars like Oscar Dsouza, who has won smaller amounts ranging from $275 to $500, the store is a place of small but consistent victories.
"Five $500," he listed, before going on to list his wins. "$350, $275, $400 - not bad."
Smokes 4 Less has a rich history, having sold lottery tickets for 30 years across its 13 locations spread throughout the Hudson Valley.
But of all these, Newburgh stands out as the current hotspot, a place that is becoming more popular each week.
The store works with Jackpocket, an app that allows users to play the lottery online.
Smokes 4 Less is the physical location where these digital purchases come to life.
On a recent Wednesday, the store was buzzing with activity, so much so that they had to replenish the paper for printing lottery tickets due to the high demand.
Yet, despite its emerging reputation as a lottery top-seller, the store hasn't seen a cut of the winnings, as they haven't sold the top prize–yet.
For those who visit Smokes 4 Less, whether they're locals or those like Tony Wright who come from afar, the shop represents a chance, a stroke of luck, and the dream of a better life.
And as the lottery numbers are drawn, everyone holds their breath, wondering if the winning ticket might be in their hands.
Newburgh's Smokes 4 Less is not just selling tickets; they're selling hope. And for many, that's worth every mile traveled and every dollar spent.