Catch up on Modesto's most-read stories of the past week. Here's what to know

From a contentious park renaming to cancer-linked chemicals in local waterways, Modesto Bee subscribers followed a busy week of news across Stanislaus County. Here’s a recap of some of the most-read stories.

Here are key takeaways:

• Modesto City Council voted Tuesday to rename Cesar E. Chavez Park to Fourth Street Park, following a New York Times investigation that accused Chavez of sexually abusing children and raping Dolores Huerta. Replacing the sign at the park, which is undergoing a $17.1 million renovation, will cost about $10,000.
• Bifenthrin, a pesticide classified as a possible human carcinogen, was found in 88% of surface water samples in Stanislaus County, according to an Environmental Working Group analysis. PFAS pesticides were detected in half of California’s surface water samples tested between 2020 and 2024.
• Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during hot weather can cut cooling costs by roughly 2% per degree, PG&E says. Smart thermostats can save the average California customer $50 to $78 a year.
• Modesto Irrigation District President Robert Frobose has asked California Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate Director Larry Byrd over allegations of water misuse and theft tied to his almond orchards. Byrd denies the allegations and calls the effort a personal vendetta.
• The Hills Ferry Bridge connecting Merced and Stanislaus counties has finally been replaced after years of closures, with new foundations sunk about 130 feet deep compared with just 14 feet on the 1961 original. The roughly 18-month project significantly shortens commutes for residents near Newman.
• Jamie Ellak plans to open Nama’s Kitchen Café and Wine Bar in downtown Hughson this fall, combining her sourdough baking and wine pairing passions. The faith-based café will serve breakfast and sandwiches in the morning and open its wine bar at 5 p.m.