Good morning, Chico.

Action News Now anchor Linda Watkins-Bennett and music therapists Erin Haley and Pam Sachs discuss the upcoming Community Lip Sync Challenge.

The event will take place Saturday, Feb. 21 at the Big Room at Sierra Nevada—promising a fun, engaging experience for locals.

Chico State’s Black Student Union will host its annual Victory in Unity Celebration on Sunday, Feb.

22 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Bell Memorial Union to honor Black History Month with live music, a rally, games, a community dinner, and a resource fair (featuring a keynote by Kevin Thompson).

Gas prices in Chico have risen past $4.40 per gallon with some stations nearing $5; drivers are exploring fuel-efficient cars and tax-free alternatives on tribal lands.

Chico State junior Becca Hamman is championing agricultural policy while competing in speaking events to support urban growth boundaries and farmer mental health.

After winning a fall competition, she will compete nationally in March and plans a gap year of international ranching internships before finishing her degree.

Chico Unified School District will debate a $2 million contract with Verkada for AI cameras today at 6 p.m. in the Butte County Office of Education Carmichael Building at 2491 Carmichael Drive — the discussion follows privacy concerns raised by parents and teachers.

Today, Councilman Addison Winslow raised concerns over the long-term maintenance of the Five Mile Basin and the need for improved floodwater direction in Chico, a change that could affect future flood control efforts.

Butte County Search & Rescue is preparing for potential water and snow rescues as storms sweep the Northstate.

The team is readying snow equipment (snowcats, snowmobiles, mountain rescue gear) and swiftwater units while advising residents to follow road closures and prepare emergency vehicle kits.

In the recent Traffic Tuesday, Officer Derek Ament from the Chico Police Department advised drivers to give cyclists a three-foot buffer and use bike lanes for up to 200 feet when turning right (if safe) while urging cyclists to use proper lighting and stop at signals.

Lassen National Forest will staff the Colby Mountain Lookout for the 2026 fire season and plans to work with local communities for long term management input — a decision that reverses plans to close the site last fall.

The lookout, north of Butte Meadows, is key for early fire detection.

Butte County’s Department of Employment and Social Services arranged dignified final services for residents without family or resources.

In 2025, about 200 indigent residents were cremated at a cost of $1,200 each — a strict process designed to maintain public health and respect.

Sage Coyle broke Chico State’s hammer throw record last April by launching the hammer 51.78 meters at the Chico Invitational — overcoming chronic health challenges like lipedema and arthritis.

She now trains with a supportive team as she aims to reach 55 meters and win at the upcoming CCAA Championships.

The Altons and Thee Sinseers Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. — Enjoy a vibrant night of music with The Altons and Thee Sinseers featuring a brass section.

Bidwell Classic Races

8:00 – 11:30 AM — Sycamore Field — Donations support cross country teams — Celebrate 50 years of running tradition in Bidwell Park.

Dueling Pianos with The Kelly Twins

7-9 p.m. — The Barn at Meriam Park — $25-30 — Enjoy a night of live music and dancing with the talented Kelly Twins.

Later Days Tribute Night with Black Pine Revival

8-11:30 p.m. — Lost on Main — 21+ with valid ID only — Experience a tribute to the Mother Hips with Later Days and the Americana rock sounds of Black Pine Revival.

Too $hort Live in Chico

8-11 p.m. — Tackle Box — Tickets starting at $82.36 — Experience the legendary West Coast rapper Too $hort perform his iconic hits live.