Good morning, Chico.

The Chico Area Recreation & Park District will host its 3rd Annual 4th of July Parade on Saturday, July 4 at 9 a.m.—community members can join decorated groups for a $30 fee, with free entry for veterans, while nominations for a 2026 Grand Marshal and sponsorships are open until May 29.

A local group is working to preserve historic rock walls along Bruce Road after some were removed.

Respect the Walls members say the structures reflect the city’s early heritage + identity.

A Chico community group, Respect the Walls, is fighting to preserve historic rock walls removed along Bruce Road as developer Dan Gonzalez explained the salvaged materials will be repurposed for local projects near Stilson Canyon and a future Otaki Park.

Chico Unified School District voted Wednesday to install AI-driven surveillance cameras with vehicle recognition at schools after awarding a $2 million contract to Riverside Technologies, despite parent concerns about the controversial camera maker Verkada (which experienced a 2021 data breach and FTC action in 2024).

California colleges are expanding AI degree programs to meet rising student and industry demand.

Chico State now offers master's programs in AI Engineering and Science while other universities have recently launched or expanded their AI majors.

Crews are conducting prescribed burns near Thermalito Forebay and Afterbay this week, temporarily closing South Forebay Recreation Area and Rabe Road Shooting Range for safety.

The burns are part of vegetation management in Butte County.

Wes Metroka took over as fire chief on Monday at Chico Fire Department.

With nearly 30 years of fire service and 20 with the department, he is working with Interim Chief Billy Hack to improve staffing & reduce overtime strain.

Enloe Health’s EMS reported that ambulance transport times increased in Butte County after Glenn Medical Center closed.

Crews from Glenn County now drive longer routes plus the agency added resources at Paradise in response to rising calls from the Ridge.

Chico Eye Center now offers a new FDA-approved light therapy treatment called Valeda for dry age-related macular degeneration, which causes central vision loss.

Dr. Heidi Houlihan says the painless in-office treatment may help maintain and improve vision for patients at risk due to age, high cholesterol (and obesity).

Music for Mental Health

4-8 p.m. — The Commons Social Empourium — Free entry — Enjoy live music while supporting mental health initiatives in the community.

Big Mo Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Barn at Meriam Park — Cost info not listed — Experience the energetic sounds of Big Mo and his big band in a charming Chico venue.

Friday Night Concert Series in Chico

6:30-8:00 p.m. — City Plaza, 132 W 4th St, Chico, CA — Free entry — Enjoy free live music and a community picnic under the stars this summer.

Chalk It Up For Charity

10 AM - 4 PM — Lassen Cidery — Free entry for kids — Enjoy competitive sidewalk chalk artistry with prizes, food trucks, and live music!