| Modesto is a city in central California with a population of around 215,000. The city was established in 1870. The city lies within Stanislaus County, California, at an elevation of 90 feet. It is within the Pacific Standard Time Zone and the Modesto area code is 209. Modesto things to do include the Gallo Center for the Arts, McHenry Mansion, The State Theater, and John Thurman Field. The Modesto City-County Airport serves the area. Amtrak service is available as well. The Modesto Area Express provides public transportation. Modesto weather is warm with winter low temperatures in the 50s and summer high temperatures in the mid 90s. Rainfall averages about 12 inches each year. Farming is an important industry in the area. The world's largest winery E and J Gallo Winery is in the area and Blue Diamond Growers (almonds) are close by. Memorial Medical Center is a healthcare leader and employer of over 2,000 local residents as well as Del Monte Foods, also employing several thousand workers. Favorite Modesto shopping areas include the Vintage Faire Mall, and the Vintage Commons. Local entertainment includes The Modesto Symphony Orchestra, a local favorite. Median family income is around $45,000. higher education institutions include California State University, Stanislaus; Institute of Technology, and Modesto Junior College. The Modesto Bee is the area newspaper. Famous people with ties to the area include Ernest and Julio Gallo, Jack Elam, Carol Channing, Laci Peterson, Mark Spitz, and George Lucas. |
