It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Modesto Arch gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Modesto, CA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Love the information the office provide and how wonderful the office looked. Chelsea provide me”
“Highly Experienced #Caregivers provide everything in levels one and two, plus knowledgeable assistance to help”
“In retirement years, many #elders start to feel lonely and depressed with the lack of”
“Worrying about senior’s care and #health in Assisted Living is common. Well, you can stop”
“Love the information the office provide and how wonderful the office looked. Chelsea provide me with enough information.”
“Highly Experienced #Caregivers provide everything in levels one and two, plus knowledgeable assistance to help seniors who are suffering from a chronic illness, who are bed-bound, and those who are on hospice.”
“In retirement years, many #elders start to feel lonely and depressed with the lack of a social life. Hire #caregivers from Always Best Care of Fresno to reduce your senior’s loneliness and ensure their care.”
“Worrying about senior’s care and #health in Assisted Living is common. Well, you can stop fretting now. Contact Always Best Care of #Fresno and find the best Assisted Living communities near you.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Moose Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Dewz Restaurant or visit McHenry Mansion Visitors Center, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Modesto, CA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Modesto, CA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Modesto, CA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Get the Eat. Sip. Play. newsletter in your inboxAvailable now: Sign up here for the best food, drink and entertainment coverage in Stanislaus County. There are a lot of celebrations and entertainment popping up in the greater Modesto region in the coming days. Modesto Performing Arts joins a host of Graffiti Summer events with a live production of the musical “Grease.” Juneteenth celebrat...
Get the Eat. Sip. Play. newsletter in your inbox
Available now: Sign up here for the best food, drink and entertainment coverage in Stanislaus County.
There are a lot of celebrations and entertainment popping up in the greater Modesto region in the coming days. Modesto Performing Arts joins a host of Graffiti Summer events with a live production of the musical “Grease.” Juneteenth celebrations and observances will be held in Modesto, Riverbank and Lathrop, along with a trip to the Allensworth Historical State Park (Scroll down to see the list of Juneteenth events). Here’s a look at just some of what’s planned June 14-20.
Modesto Performing Arts presents “Grease” at the Gallo Center for the Arts, just in time for Graffiti Summer. The production opens MPA’s 57th season. The musical is about love-struck teenagers unexpectedly reuniting at Rydell High after the summer of 1958. “Grease” has had two successful Broadway revivals and was made into a hit movie starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. MPA’s production is directed by Paul Tischer and music direction is by Marie Maxfield. Mic Thompson will return to his hometown of Modesto for choreography duties.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. June 14, 20-21; 2 p.m. June 15, 22
WHERE: Gallo Center for the Arts, 1000 I St., Modesto
TICKETS: $38-$58
ONLINE: www.galloarts.org
The Modesto Band of Stanislaus County, affectionately known as MoBand, performs its third concert of the season, moving to a special Wednesday date in observance of Thursday’s Juneteenth holiday. The “Through Time” show will feature classic tunes by Glenn Miller, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and rock legends of the 1970s.
WHEN: 8 p.m. June 18
WHERE: Mancini Bowl at Graceada Park, 401 Needham St., Modesto
TICKETS: Free
ONLINE: www.moband.org
The Modesto Film Society will screen the classic hit “Top Gun” starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis at the State Theatre. The 1986 action film is about a group of men in an elite training school for fighter pilots when tragedy strikes.
WHEN: 2 p.m. June 15
WHERE: State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
TICKET: $10
ONLINE: www.thestate.org
The June tradition in Modesto continues with the Back to Graffiti Car Show at the Fruit Yard Amphitheatre. Modesto F-100 Elite presents the event, which also includes a raffle, vendors, music, awards and more.
WHEN: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 14
WHERE: The Fruit Yard, 7948 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-577-3093
While Modesto Performing Arts offers “Grease” in a live production, you also can see the film itself at the State Theatre’s “Grease” Singalong screening. It’s also part of Modesto’s Graffiti Summer celebrations.
WHEN: 2 p.m. June 14
WHERE: The State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto
TICKETS: $6
ONLINE: thestate.org
The Carnegie Arts Center offers its annual block party in downtown Turlock. This community event for all ages moves from outside the arts center to a Turlock park this year. Creative activities, live music and more will be offered.
WHEN: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. June 14
WHERE: Central Park, downtown Turlock
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: carnegieartsturlock.org
The annual Ceres Skies The Limit Hot Air Balloon festival returns. Weather permitting, the schedule has balloons lifting off beginning at 6 a.m. Tethered rides will be offered to the public for $10. There will be food trucks, vendors, live music and activities for children.
WHEN: 5 a.m.-noon June 14
WHERE: River Bluff Regional Park, 3761 Hatch Road, Ceres
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-538-5628
The annual Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee celebrates the logging industry with two days of vendors, a carnival, parade, music, logging contests and more. The events end with a tug-of-war at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.
WHEN: June 20-22; See website for times
WHERE: West Side Memorial Park, Tuolumne
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: motherlodetimbersports.org/tuolumne-lumber-jubilee.
The Stanislaus Arts Council presents its Celebration of the Arts Gala. The council will honor several people for their contributions to the region’s arts community. There will be art, performances and visuals. This year’s theme is “Kaleidoscope of Community.”
WHEN: 5-9 p.m. June 14
WHERE: Modesto Silos, 320 Madonia Ave, Modesto
TICKETS: Start at $150
ONLINE: www.stanislausarts.org/event-checkout/p/events-cota2025
Modesto Juneteenth
The King-Kennedy Memorial Center Board of Directors will celebrate Juneteenth during a “We Shall Rise” festival. The event at Graceada Park includes live entertainment with Valley Rhythm Section, food vendors, games and more.
WHEN: 1-6 p.m. June 14
WHERE: Graceada Park, 401 Needham St., Modesto
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-568-3643
Slavery Remembrance Day
Silver Square Lodge #66/Creators Club of Modesto offers a “Never Be Forgotten, Never Be Repeated Train Ride Back In Time” to Allensworth Historical State Park. The train departs from the Modesto Amtrak station at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy food, vendors and live music, along with a guided town tour that highlights significant aspects of Black history. Calling ahead for reservations is recommended.
WHEN: June 14, see above for times
WHERE: See above
TICKETS: $27 round trip
CALL: 209-595-6966
Freedom Trail Walk-A-thon
Silver Square Lodge will hold a second Juneteenth observance, “Never Be Forgotten, Never Be Repeated” with a walk, luncheon, dinner and program. The walk from 9-11 a.m. will be along the Helen White Trail in Modesto, meeting at Martin Luther King Drive and California Avenue. After the walk will be several events at Modesto Centre Plaza’s Arbor Theater, 1000 L St. A lunch will be offered noon-1 p.m. From 1-5 p.m., a youth symposium and rally will take place, featuring a tribute to Col. Allen Allensworth and Prince Hall through films, lectures, music and dancing. After the youth event, participants will receive certificates for free backpacks. A dinner and program will be held 5-6 p.m., followed by a concert featuring Darnell Robinson from 7-11 p.m.
WHEN: June 19, see above for times
WHERE: See above
TICKETS: For post-walk activities, donation is $75
CALL: 209-595-6966
Riverbank Juneteenth
“A Day of Family Fun: Juneteenth Celebrating Freedom” marks another community holiday event. The day will feature activities for children, food, bands, DJs, vendors, gospel singers, cultural performances, educational exhibits, a Black business expo and community resource information.
WHEN: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. June 19
WHERE: Riverbank Community Center, 3600 Santa Fe St.
ADMISSION: Free
CALL: 209-568-3643
Lathrop Juneteenth
The Lathrop Juneteenth Heritage Committee presents its third annual event with vendors, food trucks, live music, spoken word and games for kids. Reserve free admission online, below.
WHEN: 4:30-8:30 p.m. June 19
WHERE: Lathrop Generations Center, 450 Spartan Way
ADMISSION: Free
ONLINE: www.lathropjuneteenth.us
Only one Stanislaus County hospital received a ‘D’ grade in a new report evaluating patient safety at medical care centers across the nation.The Leapfrog Group issues ...
Only one Stanislaus County hospital received a ‘D’ grade in a new report evaluating patient safety at medical care centers across the nation.
The Leapfrog Group issues Hospital Safety Grade reports twice a year for nearly 3,000 general hospitals in the United States.
Grades are based on several critical factors, including rates of preventable errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.
The nonprofit organization’s latest report, released May 1 and searchable as an online database, grades health care facilities across the nation on a scale of A to F — with A being the highest grade and F the lowest.
Out of the four Stanislaus County hospitals ranked by Leapfrog, only one received an “D” grade for spring 2025.
Here’s which one:
Doctors Medical Center of Modesto, 1441 Florida Ave. in Modesto, received the lowest grade of any Stanislaus County hospital evaluated in The Leapfrog Group’s latest report.
According to new data from The Leapfrog Group, the hospital received poor scores for infections, surgical complication, patient safety issues and error-preventative practices, as well as poor performance by doctors, nurses and other staff members.
“Errors are much more common if hospital leaders don’t make patient safety a priority,” The Leapfrog Group said. “Leaders must make sure that all hospital staff knows what they need to work on and that they are held accountable for improvements.”
Some of the safety issues Leapfrog noted included staph bacteria in bed linens, accidental cuts and tears and complications following a surgery.
According to The Leapfrog Group, Doctors Medical Center “declined to report” its efforts to improve safety in certain categories, such as having effective leadership to prevent errors.
However, the Modesto hospital said it is “constantly working to improve patient safety and quality care but these false ratings undermine the doctor-hospital-patient relationship that is essential to positive health outcomes.”
“We stand with our sister hospitals, which have filed a complaint in Florida against The Leapfrog Group’s inaccurate, corrupt and dangerous rankings,” Doctors Medical Center said in a statement responding to The Leapfrog Group’s spring 2025 report. “Leapfrog’s scoring system deceives patients and rewards hospitals that either pay them or supply free data for their flawed survey, while punishing those that do not participate with inaccurate scores based on fabricated data.”
These were The Leapfrog Group’s safety grades for other hospitals in Stanislaus County for spring 2025:
A grade
Kaiser Foundation Hospital, 4601 Dale Road, Modesto
B grade
Memorial Medical Center, 1700 Coffee Road, Modesto
C grade
Emanuel Medical Center, 825 Delbon Ave., Turlock
The Leapfrog Group assigns hospitals a grade from A to F based on their “overall performance in keeping patients safe from preventable harm and medical errors.”
These grades are calculated using up to 30 national performance measures sourced from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, The Leapfrog Hospital Survey and other data.
Under the guidance of a panel of patient safety experts, The Leapfrog Group selected about two dozen evidence-based measures, grouped into five key categories, to create its scoring methodology.
Those categories are:
You can start celebrating Independence Day early in the Merced region, as well as on the holiday itself, with a host of community patriotic events set.And across the board, there will plenty of bombs bursting in air. Here’s a look at some of what’s planned:June 28: Los Banos starts its festivities early. The city’s Independence Day celebration will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. the Saturday before July 4. There will be live music by Troublesome, food vendors, arts and crafts and a carnival. Fireworks start ...
You can start celebrating Independence Day early in the Merced region, as well as on the holiday itself, with a host of community patriotic events set.
And across the board, there will plenty of bombs bursting in air. Here’s a look at some of what’s planned:
June 28: Los Banos starts its festivities early. The city’s Independence Day celebration will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. the Saturday before July 4. There will be live music by Troublesome, food vendors, arts and crafts and a carnival. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Henry Miller Plaza, 600 H St. See tinyurl.com/lbfourth.
July 3: The Diamonds in the Sky in Memory Of Margie event also will be held before the holiday at the Merced Speedway. There will be racing events and a fireworks show. Gates open at 5 p.m. with racing starting at 7 p.m. and pyrotechnics after dark. Both are free. The speedway is at 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way. See www.mercedspeedway.net/profile/?r=560376&rt=sch.
July 4: Livingston plans an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration this year. Festivities begin with a Wee Miss and Mr. Livingston Fourth of July Pageant. Also planned are carnival games, live entertainment, a pie-eating contest, food vendors and more, all ending with a fireworks show. 4:30 to 10:30 p.m. Max Foster Sports Complex. 2600 Walnut Ave. Event entry is free. See www.cityoflivingston.org/recreation/page/4th-july-festivities.
July 4: The Lights on the Lake Independence Day Celebration returns to Lake McClure for an over-the-water display. Recreation at the lake is available all day, with fireworks viewing areas open at McClure Point at 6 p.m. Entrance to Lake McClure is at the Merced Irrigation District parks entrance, 9090 Lake McClure Road, Snelling. Entrance fee is $25 per vehicle, boat entrance fee $9 per trailer. All entry tickets must be purchased in advance. See www.lakemcclure.com/events-at-lake-mcclure-lake-mcswain-new
July 4: The day begins with a Run for Independence at 7:30 a.m. A parade downtown begins at 9 a.m., and there will be a festival at Ralston Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A concert featuring Troublesome and a fireworks show will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. at Castle Commerce Center, with admission $20 per car, $5 per walk-in. See www.atwater4thofjuly.org.
July 4: Festivities include a parade at 10:30 a.m. in downtown. Afterward, there will be activities, food and more at Henry Miller Park beginning at noon. At night, there will be fireworks at the Gustine High football field. See www.gustinechamberofcommerce.com or call 209-777-9382.
July 4: The annual Fireworks-on-the-Water Celebration will be held at Lake Don Pedro. Parking is limited, so spectators should arrive early for the 9:30 p.m. show. 11500 Bonds Flat Road, La Grange. $40 per vehicle, $20 per vessel. www.donpedrolake.com/recreation-area/fireworks-show.
Conflict in the Middle East is driving up gas prices across California — and drivers in Stanislaus County may be feeling the impact at the pump.Though California drivers typically pay the highest fuel prices in the United States, AAA reported that oil prices are being affected by global tensions....
Conflict in the Middle East is driving up gas prices across California — and drivers in Stanislaus County may be feeling the impact at the pump.
Though California drivers typically pay the highest fuel prices in the United States, AAA reported that oil prices are being affected by global tensions.
“Ongoing tensions in the Middle East have added uncertainty to global and domestic gasoline markets,” AAA said in a news release on Sunday, June 22. “U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Iran’s response prompted a modest rise in oil prices during early trading this week, though markets have since steadied.”
While the average cost of regular gasoline in California reached $4.64, as of Wednesday, June 25, the price was about 20 cents less compared to a month ago.
If you’re looking to save at the pump, here’s where you can find cheaper gas around Stanislaus County:
As of Wednesday, June 25, AAA reported California drivers pay the highest fuel prices in the United States, with the average cost of regular gasoline reaching $4.64 per gallon.
That is a dollar more than the national average of $3.22.
The Golden State has now topped the nation for gas prices for 19 consecutive weeks, according to AAA.
It’s one of four states, along with Hawaii, Washington and Oregon, where the average cost has climbed above $4 a gallon.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at fuel price website GasBuddy, said gas prices are rising faster than they have since the summer of 2024.
“Few pumps have been immune, with nearly all states seeing gas prices rise over the last week,” he told the Miami Herald.
He said average gas prices saw their biggest weekly increase since August 2023, when gas prices peaked at $5.13 per gallon.
“Now, with the U.S. launching attacks on Iran, oil prices are likely to continue trending higher,” De Haan said. “That said, I do not expect the apocalyptic spikes being circulated by some so-called influencers on social media — many of which are wildly inaccurate.”
Drivers can expect prices to keep rising over the next few days, with the national average price for a gallon of regular gas possibly going up seven to 15 cents, he said. The price for diesel could rise by 10 to 20 cents.
“These forecasts remain fluid and could shift quickly depending on global developments,” De Haan said.
As of Wednesday, June 25, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Modesto was $4.39.
That is roughly 50 cents lower than a month ago and more than a dollar cheaper compared to June 2024.
As of Wednesday, some Modesto area stations were offering prices below the local average of $4.39, according to the price-tracking site GasBuddy.
These were 10 of the cheapest gas stations in Stanislaus County based on the cash price for a gallon of regular gasoline, according to GasBuddy:
What do you want to know about life in Modesto? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email [email protected].
Available now: Sign up here for the best food, drink and entertainment coverage in Stanislaus County. You can start celebrating Independence Day early in the Modesto and Mother Lode regions, with a host of community patriotic events.Turlock offers two days of festivities, including an evening drone show on Friday, June 27.The always popular fireworks-over-the-water celebration at Woodward Rese...
Available now: Sign up here for the best food, drink and entertainment coverage in Stanislaus County.
You can start celebrating Independence Day early in the Modesto and Mother Lode regions, with a host of community patriotic events.
Turlock offers two days of festivities, including an evening drone show on Friday, June 27.
The always popular fireworks-over-the-water celebration at Woodward Reservoir also is early, set for Saturday, June 28.
If watching fireworks burst over the water is particularly appealing, bookend Woodward’s show with one at Lake Don Pedro, planned for the July Fourth holiday itself.
Not all communities offer fireworks, but there will be pyrotechnics to view throughout the regions, along with a host of other patriotic events.
Here’s a look at some of what’s planned:
June 27-28: The Turlock Downtown Property Owners Association starts the celebrations with a car show, parade and drone show. Opening ceremonies are at 6 p.m. Friday at Central Park before the parade begins at 6:30 p.m., with the drone show at 9 p.m. On Saturday, there will be a car show, farmers market and a makers market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Downtown Turlock. www.turlockdowntown.com/usa.
June 28: The Stanislaus County Fireworks Celebration at Woodward Reservoir also starts the holiday off early. Saturday’s show is set to begin around 9:30 p.m. at 14528 26 Mile Road. Cost is $30 per carload. It’s recommended people purchase in advance, as the event tends to sell out early. See stancountyparks.com/firework.
July 4: The city of Modesto and the Modesto Kiwanis Club present the annual parade with this year’s theme, “Celebrating America’s Youth.” Prior and afterward, there will be a street fair with food, beverages, crafts and entertainment from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on I Street between 10th and 11th streets, in front of the Gallo Center for the Arts. The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. from 10th and F streets to J Street, then back on 11th Street to I Street, ending at 17th Street. See modestojulyparade.com.
July 4: Columbia State Historic Park’s annual Glorious Fourth of July Celebration begins with a flag raising and black powder musket salute at 11 a.m. A parade on Main Street begins at noon. The day’s activities include music by Great Motherlode Brass and Reed Band. There also will be greased pole climbing, a bucket brigade, contests, a tug-of-war and more. See www.visitcolumbiacalifornia.com.
July 4: Manteca celebrates with a parade beginning at 10 a.m. from Sycamore Avenue to Manteca High School. A “YupUp 4th of July Kids Fest at Big League Dreams” begins at 3 p.m. with entertainment, character meet-and-greets, live music, pony rides, beer, food trucks, games and more. Fireworks over Big League Dreams sports park begin at 9:30 p.m. 1077 Milo Candini Drive. $50, free ages 2 and under. See manteca.org/events/event/yupup-4th-of-july-kids-fest-at-big-league-dreams.
July 4: The day begins with a Run for Independence at 7:30 a.m. A parade downtown begins at 9 a.m. with a festival at Ralston Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A concert featuring Troublesome and a fireworks show will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. at Castle Commerce Center, with admission at $20 per car, $5 per walk-in. See www.atwater4thofjuly.org.
July 4: The annual Fireworks-on-the-Water Celebration will be held at Lake Don Pedro. Parking is limited, so spectators should arrive early for the 9:30 p.m. show. 11500 Bonds Flat Road, La Grange. $40 per vehicle, $20 per vessel. www.donpedrolake.com/recreation-area/fireworks-show.
July 4: Festivities include a parade at 10:30 a.m. in downtown. After, there will be activities, food and more at Henry Miller Park beginning at noon. Later, there will be fireworks at the Gustine High football field. See www.members.tripod.com/gustinecofc or call 209-777-9382.
July 4: The Fourth Of July Drone Show is planned outside the Black Oak Casino Resort. The night sky will feature a display of lights, choreographed by drone pilots, in a variety of colors and patterns. Viewing areas open at 6:30 p.m. with the show expected to begin at 9:15 p.m. 19400 Tuolumne Road North, Tuolumne. Free. Parking and viewing areas may be limited, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early. See www.blackoakcasino.com/play/promotions/drone-show.
209-613-4604
