Over 60 Grocery Outlet locations across Oregon sued for alleged deceptive pricing

KTVZ on June 5, 2025

Claire Elmer

(Update: Adding video, interview with Oregon Consumer Justice)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Grocery Outlet, which calls itself the ‘Bargain Market’, is alleged to be without true bargains, according to three Oregon consumers who filed a class-action lawsuit over its price-comparison practices.

The plaintiffs – represented by OJC Law, P.C., partners of Oregon Consumer Justice – have brought a class-action lawsuit against Grocery Outlet and operators of over 60 locations throughout Oregon over what they allege is deceptive marketing.

The complaint (which you can review below) demands equitable and injunctive relief, along with a jury trial, claiming violations under the Unlawful Trade Practices Act.

The focus of the claims is the “widespread and coordinated scheme by Grocery Outlet Inc. and its affiliated Oregon operators to mislead consumers through the use of fictitious ‘elsewhere’ pricing,” according to the lawsuit.

Receipts and specific product price comparisons between nearby stores and Grocery Outlet were provided in the complaint as examples to show that Grocery Outlet actually charges more than its competitors.

Oregon Consumer Justice told KTVZ News it is not just cost discrepancy, but quality that skews realistic comparison.

Jagjit Nagra, the executive director of Oregon Consumer Justice, told KTVZ News, “Let’s assume for the sake of this hypothetical that Grocery Outlet does in fact offer a lower price than Safeway down the street. But the item from Grocery Outlet is going to expire next week, whereas the item from Safeway has a shelf life for another year. That’s not an apples-to-apples comparison. And that is very misleading for consumers.”

The term ‘elsewhere’ is clearly defined in Oregon under consumer statute, with strict rules on when businesses are allowed to use the word in comparisons and marketing.

The suit requests injunctive relief – or, stopping the behavior – and monetary damages.

We have reached out to the Grocery Outlet store owners here in Central Oregon for comment, but have not yet received a response.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide you with any new information we receive. 

Here is the lawsuit:

Grocery Outlet class action lawsuitDownload

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Police say they found two guns in home of Colorado Springs 14-year-old alleged shooter

KRDO on June 5, 2025

Celeste Springer

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — A 14-year-old Colorado Springs boy is in custody after an alleged shooting that killed a 15-year-old girl and injured two others, according to the Aurora Police Department.

Officials in Aurora held a press conference Thursday afternoon, which can be watched below, courtesy of our partners at 9News:

The Aurora Police Department says that the shooting happened early Sunday morning near a fire station located in the 12600 block of East Hoffman Boulevard in Aurora.

During a press conference Thursday, the Aurora Police Department said they believe there was a “pop-up party” in Denver that relocated to the area of the shooting. The department said the “pop-up party” was being live-streamed to social media, encouraging others to come join in. They say they believe a fight broke out, and then the suspect fired into the group at the victims.

Police say the suspect drove up from Colorado Springs with a group, likely to attend the party. They say the group from Colorado Springs was the “initiator of causing problems.”

The police department said they have reason to believe some of the involved teens participate in “girl fight clubs.”

According to officials, firefighters were returning back from a call when they found a 15-year-old girl and a 20-year-old woman shot and started rendering aid. Later, police say they learned that a third victim, a different 15-year-old girl, suffered a graze wound.

“We cannot have, you know, anyone being murdered at the hands of gun violence. But it’s especially shocking when it’s a juvenile,” said Mark Hildebrand of the Aurora Police Department.

Officials said in a release that the 14-year-old suspect faces one count of first-degree murder, 10 counts of attempted murder, and two counts of possession of a handgun related to the shooting.

Aurora Police say a large number of tips started to flood in, leading their suspect search to Colorado Springs. When connecting with the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD), detectives learned CSPD had recently submitted an arrest warrant for the suspect for motor vehicle theft.

Colorado Springs and Aurora police investigators partnered on the investigation. On Wednesday morning, CSPD’s Strategic Investigations Unit served its motor vehicle theft warrant and arrested the suspect.

Police say a search of the suspect’s Colorado Springs home resulted in the recovery of two firearms, 9mm and .380-caliber handguns. The firearms were provided to the Aurora Police Department for ballistics testing in its homicide investigation.

“It is unconscionable to think that a 14-year-old would have access to two firearms and then make the conscious decision to use them against a group of people. And end up, murdering a 15-year-old in the process,” stated Mark Hildebrand of the Aurora Police Department.

Aurora Police say the 10-15 shell casings they found at the scene of the shooting are consistent with the weapons they found in the 14-year-old’s home.

As of Thursday morning, the 14-year-old was being held in the El Paso County Jail, however, the suspect will ultimately be transferred to the Arapahoe County Jail to face charges in Arapahoe Juvenile Court. Formal charges will be filed by the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

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Local Downtown bar to close

News-Press NOW on June 5, 2025

News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — One local Downtown bar has announced “one last toast” as it prepares to close its doors.

The Rendezvous, located at 817 Francis St., will have its “Last Hurrah” starting at 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 7.

The bar relocated to its new spot in 2024 from its original location at 619 Felix St.

Known for attracting live bands and karaoke nights, the Rendezvous will have “The December” play on its closing night, as well as a final karaoke session.

The bar will have rotating drink specials throughout the night and no cover charges.

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Dozens line up overnight for new Nintendo Switch in Idaho Falls

KIFI on June 5, 2025

News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — It looked more like a chilly Black Friday morning than a mild June evening in front of the Best Buy in Idaho Falls last night, as dozens of eager shoppers lined up for the release of the highly anticipated new Nintendo Switch console.

The console officially dropped Wednesday night, June 4, 2025, drawing crowds hours before the doors opened. Some dedicated fans reported waiting up to four hours in line to get their hands on the new system.

Best Buy staff managed the excited crowd by allowing smaller groups into the store at a time, ensuring a smooth process. Happy customers soon emerged, clutching their new consoles.

Among them was Steven from Idaho Falls, who shared his excitement: “I’m looking forward to its performance capabilities, and I’m also looking forward to playing this game, which came out, Mario Kart World. And I’m looking forward to any future titles that are released for this game system!”

The original Switch console was released in 2017. 

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News-Press NOW’s Kirsten Stokes takes part in Miss Kansas competition

News-Press NOW on June 5, 2025

News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — News-Press NOW Anchor and Multimedia Journalist, Kirsten Stokes, will be competing in the Miss Kansas competition on Saturday, June 7.

The competition will take place at 7 p.m. at Pratt Community College.

If Stokes wins the competition, she will advance to the Miss America competition in September.

Stokes’ advocacy work during this mission consists of working with foster care organizations in Kansas and Missouri.

She used her community service initiative, “Generation Movement” to spread advocacy through storytelling.

Stokes is competing as contestant #8, with vocalism as her talent.

News-Press NOW is proud of her accomplishments as Miss Sunflower and hopes to see her on the Miss America stage in September.

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SDSU finds Imperial Valley farmworkers at risk without longer rest breaks

KESQ on June 5, 2025

KYMA

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – As summer temperatures climb in California’s farming regions, a new study from San Diego State University (SDSU) is raising alarms about the heat risks agricultural workers face daily, and how much rest they need to survive it.

Researchers looked at weather conditions in the Imperial and Coachella Valleys, where farmworkers regularly labor under intense sun. They found that in extreme heat, workers may need up to 32 minutes of rest per hour to avoid heat stress.

“There are more than 300,000 farmworkers active in these crop fields, and they are exposed to high heat stress every day as they work in those fields,” said Sagar Parajuli, a research scientist at SDSU.

The research team used local weather data and existing safety guidelines to determine when conditions become too dangerous for prolonged physical labor. Their findings suggest that breaks aren’t just helpful, they’re essential.

Despite existing regulations, farmworker advocates say these protections often go unenforced, especially among workers hired through small labor contractors.

“They don’t respect their breaks, or give them enough shade, or give them fresh water…It’s hard sometimes because many workers don’t work directly for big companies, but for smaller contractors who don’t always follow the rules,” said Ruben Partida with Comité de Acción del Valle.

Imperial County consistently reports the highest rate of heat-related illness in California, according to state data. That makes enforcement of heat safety guidelines more urgent than ever.

“The people work day to day, so sometimes they prefer to stay quiet to conserve their job, but what happens when they stay quiet is their working conditions become deplorable,” Partida added.

Researchers emphasize that rest breaks, water, and shade aren’t optional, they are scientifically proven tools to protect health.

“The farmworkers are the people who bring food to our table, they’re hardworking people, so we are responsible for protecting them,” Parajuli said.

For the full research article, click here.

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Local dry cleaning business to hold grand re-opening

News-Press NOW on June 5, 2025

News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — After a fire broke out and almost 10 months of renovations, one local business is holding its grand re-opening on Thursday.

In August of 2024, East Hills Cleaners’ main location had to temporarily move their business to a shop four doors down to be able to assist customers due to a fire.

It continued to provide laundry, dry-cleaning and alteration services during renovations.

The business also received assistance from the community and Pride Cleaners, a business in Kansas City.

The Chamber of Commerce will help East Hills Cleaners celebrate the grand re-opening ceremony at its main location at 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, at 3603 Faraon St.

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Mayor of Palmer Lake resigns amid controversy surrounding proposed Buc-ee’s location

KRDO on June 5, 2025

Sadie Buggle

PALMER LAKE, Colo. (KRDO) – Palmer Lake Mayor Glant Havenar has resigned, stepping down from her role just months into her second term as mayor.

Her resignation – effective Thursday – follows a lengthy political saga over a proposed Buc-ee’s location in the small town.

Havenar was re-elected as mayor of Palmer Lake in November 2024. A Palmer Lake resident since 2003, she previously served two terms as a trustee before taking on the role of mayor.

“It is with sadness that I acknowledge and agree with Glant’s decision to step down,” saidDennis Stern, Mayor Pro Tem, in a release. “During her tenure serving as Mayor, and prior as Trustee, Glantmade many contributions to our Town, and it’s clear she loves Palmer Lake.”

In addition to her work at the local level, Havenar represents Palmer Lake on the Board of Directors for the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) and the El Paso County Board of Health.

Her resignation marks a turning point in a months-long debate over the potential arrival of the Texas-based convenience store Buc-ee’s – a matter that has sparked lawsuits, recall efforts and deep divisions among residents.

While supporters have touted the economic benefits the project could bring the small town, opponents have voiced concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact, water usage and impact on local businesses.

LATEST: Palmer Lake Board deems land eligible for Buc-ee’s annexation, but community stays divided

In a statement, the town said the Palmer Lake Board of Trustees will be determining how to fill Havenar’s vacancy at a board meeting on June 12.

Havenar has not yet cited a specific reason for her resignation, but provided KRDO13 with the following statement Wednesday night:

“To the Citizens of Palmer Lake, the Town Board, and Town Staff,

It is with a full heart and deep reflection that I tender my resignation as Mayor of Palmer Lake, effective June 5, 2025.

Serving this town for the past 12 years—in many capacities—has been one of the greatest honors of my life. From community events to difficult decisions, every moment has been rooted in my unwavering love and commitment to this extraordinary community and its people.

I leave this position with every confidence in the integrity and strength of the current Town Board. They are good people with sincere intentions, and I ask you to continue supporting them. Fight for them when necessary. Stand by them when it matters most.

To the community—my neighbors, friends, and fellow citizens—keep standing up for what is right and just. Don’t let the bullies win. Your voice, your courage, and your unity are what makes Palmer Lake a place worth believing in.

Thank you for the trust, the support, and the memories. I will always carry this town in my heart.

With deep gratitude and unwavering hope,

Glant Havenar, Mayor, Town of Palmer Lake”

This is a developing story and may be updated as we learn more.

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Michaels is expanding its fabric selection following Joann’s collapse

KIFI on June 5, 2025

CNN Newsource

By Jordan Valinsky, CNN

New York (CNN) — Michaels is jumping into the void left by the collapse of Joann, announcing Thursday that it’s buying the fabric retailer’s private label and drastically expanding its sewing selection.

In a press release, Michaels said that searches on its website for the word “fabric” have jumped nearly 80% over the past year and “sewing” has increased by about 40%, prompting the retailer to make a “significant investment” in the category in hopes of attracting Joann’s fans.

In response, Michaels is adding 600 products across several categories, including sewing and quilting supplies, fabric and yarn as well as sewing machines. So far, 680 of its 1,300 stores have received the increased selection, with plans for 280 more locations by the end of the year.

Shoppers will also begin to see products from Joann’s fan-favorite “Big Twist” yarn and fabric private label as part of the deal. The lineup is being “developed as part of Michaels portfolio of brands and will be available in-stores and online later this year,” the company said.

“This acquisition allows us to better serve both new and existing customers, respond to rising demand across categories, and build on our momentum as the destination for creating and celebrating in North America,” said Michaels CEO David Boone in a release.

Michaels also bought Joann’s intellectual property, including its name, although no specific plans were announced for that. Joann’s 800 brick-and-mortar stores have all closed over the past few months.

This isn’t the first time Michaels is taking advantage of the collapse of a rival. In April, the closure of about 700 Party City stores prompted Michaels to expand its selection of balloons and other celebration-themed supplies.

Despite the expansion into new categories, financial consulting firm Debtwire said that it added Michaels to its “Retail Distressed Watchlist” because of the toll on tariffs, since 75% of its suppliers are from China. However, Michaels is privately held and doesn’t give people a full look at its financials.

“Purchasing the Joann intellectual property and private label brands is an inexpensive way for Michaels to expand its product line, as there were probably not many other buyers interested in those assets,” Tim Hynes, head of credit research for Debtwire, told CNN.

The-CNN-Wire
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Magnitude 4.0 earthquake hits northwest of Stanley

KIFI on June 5, 2025

Noah Farley

STANLEY, Idaho (KIFI) — There have already been around 50 earthquakes northwest of Stanley since the latter end of May, including a magnitude 4.0 earthquake on Wednesday at 4:58 p.m.

The earthquakes are happening near the Sawtooth Fault, which is south of the focal point of the magnitude 6.5 earthquake that happened in March 2020.

Custer County Emergency Management says you can prepare for an earthquake by having a 72-hour kit and creating a family plan to get to a safe place. You can also prepare your home by bracing your furniture and anchoring your shelves to the wall to keep them from falling.

If you’re outside during an earthquake, emergency crews say to move to an open field and stay away from trees, buildings, and utility poles.

More information on how to prepare for an earthquake can be found here.

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