BargainView Words and Photos by Monica Barber
“August is like the Sunday of the summer,” she tells me before finishing the thought with a giggle, “And it’s pretty hot too!” I’ve settled in this afternoon in the Stanislaus County Library in Downtown Modesto for the next 30 minutes to write. Miss Aly who about to enter the 5th grade soon tells me her take on the month and I agree. August is like the day before you start school and work; the last hurrah before fall and like a Sunday it’s simply best enjoyed. While entertaining how wonderful the free Wi-Fi is Aly suggests I visit the Goldfish before I leave. Leave everything to the imagination but enjoy your leisurely August by saving a few dollars while trying new things…
The Stanislaus County Library happens to be a great untapped resource in our area. Free books, dvds, periodicals and internet are among the perks in addition to the free AC. Kids can enjoy Story time or other activities. Library Cards cost $1. Look for your nearest branch in the Modesto Area, get into reading again and enjoy the perks! http://www.stanislauslibrary.org/
Climbing the walls can drive you absolutely nuts unless you find somewhere it’s absolutely encouraged. Take a trip to Stonehenge, an indoor climbing gym where you can climb to new heights while exercising your strength, flexibility and balance. They are located a few blocks south of Downtown Modesto. First time climbers are $23/regulars are $15. Set your sights on new heights! http://www.climbstonehenge.com/
The antsy feeling you get when you want to escape is pretty natural especially when the temperature soars. A great way to cool down is to get a bit of culture mixed with a hint of exotic. Entertain yourself reasonably by taking in a performance of South Pacific at the Gallo Center. The performances run August 9th-10th and 16-17th with tickets starting at $19. http://www.galloarts.org/ Looking to end your month with a bang. Check out two of the area’s most coveted events. X-Fest returns 15 years strong on August 23 and always promises a great time for a deal. It is one of the areas biggest parties with awesome music headliners paired with amazing food and beverage vendors for only $20. 21+ event. http://www.xfestmodesto.com/ Valley’s Got Talent returns August 29-30 with some of the great talent that our area has to offer. This is a stage event for non-professional talents in various specialties. Now the competition is quite steep and there’s nothing but stars shining bright on stage aiming for the prizes. Head out and support this year’s talent because you never know who might be tomorrow’s superstars! Tickets $10-25. http://www.galloarts.org/ Enjoy your month long Sunday… Happy August Modesto!
