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For my household, it makes more sense to shop often and in smaller amounts rather than the huge, occasional trips to the store like my parents used to take. And while Everett's not a large city by any means, I still prefer to save time and gas by shopping nearby.

That's why I'm thrilled Grocery Outlet’s second Everett location opens this Thursday on Evergreen Way (5209 Evergreen Way).

When I lived near Grocery Outlet on Everett Mall Way, I was there every couple of weeks, but have only gone a few times a year since moving to the north end of town.

Now I'll be closer than I've ever been to one, and it's a great addition to the neighborhood.

This is the third Grocery Outlet for owners Tod and Debbie Jackson. They both grew up in Everett, but left in 2009 to open their first in San Leandro, CA, which they operated for four years before returning to run the Everett Mall Way location. It's truly a family operation, and they're working hard with their sons Joey and Jeremy to get the new store ready.

Debbie took some time to show us around the new store as they were setting up and answer my questions about how best to take advantage of the savings there, as well as clear up a few misconceptions.

WHAT ARE WOW ALERTS?

WOW Alerts are sent daily or weekly to customers who want them via email, listing products costing 50% or less than the price at conventional stores. To qualify, they need to be top sellers that also have enough inventory left so they won't run out immediately. Select daily alerts so you're more likely to get to the store in time to take advantage.

When you sign up for alerts, you'll also receive electronic copies of the newspaper ads as well as occasional coupons and special offers.

Like the Facebook page to keep up with what's happening at the new Claremont location.

ARE THERE ANY MISCONCEPTIONS YOU'D LIKE TO ADDRESS?

We don't sell outdated products or dented cans. We carry brand name groceries, dairy and deli items, fresh produce, and fresh meat, plus household and personal items. Our buyers are experts at finding products outside the normal retail channels, such as packaging changes, product overruns, and surplus inventories.

WHAT'S A WINNING STRATEGY FOR SHOPPING AT GROCERY OUTLET?

• Shop here first. You'll find many of the items on your list here at a deep discount.

• Come often. Because we purchase our products opportunistically, our product availability is always changing.

• Stock up. Some products are closeouts and will never be sold again, while others are surplus and may not be back for a while.

• Check the dates. The deepest discounts are on items that are closer to their best-by date. Be realistic about how much you'll get to while it's still freshest.

Another thing to look out for around the store are the green NOSH labels and signs. These are the Natural, Organic, Specialty, and Healthy items, and they have a lot of them.

Join Tod and Debbie for their grand opening on Thursday for several chances to win free groceries.

• 9 a.m.: Opening Ceremony, first 200 customers get Bargain Bucks worth $5-$200. Free reusable shopping bag while supplies last. Enter to win $100 in groceries each month for a year!

• 11 a.m.: Donation presented to Salt of the Earth Food Bank.

• 2-4 p.m.: Spin the wheel of bargains and win!

Grocery Outlet
5209 Evergreen Way
8 a.m.-9 p.m. seven-days-a-week
(425) 512-9282

Christopher Bragg works from home in Everett and loves walking, swimming, and cats. You can find him all over town, but only if you keep weird hours and avoid crowds like he does.