Chico >> Filling bags with trash and picking up cigarette butts isn't exactly a party, but its a good way to join neighbors in a cause. The Butte Environmental Council will organize six upcoming cleanups as part of its neighborhood block party program. BEC is known for organizing large-scale park cleanups during the warmer months.

Chico >> Cold morning temperatures and the calendar failed to deter a handful of volunteers who pitched in for a creek cleanup Saturday. While the last month's first monthly "Block Party With a Purpose" drew about 40 people and collected 4,300 pounds of refuse from Lindo Channel, organizers anticipated fewer people for the event just two days into the new year.

Block party clean up

CHICO, Calif. - Volunteers in Chico started the new year by cleaning up Chico waterways. January 2 was the first "Block Party with a Purpose" in 2016. The Butte Environmental Council last held a "party" in 2014. But waterways around the city are littered with trash so volunteers are back at it.