Three accidents involving multiple vehicles started about 7:45 a.m. Wednesday between Rancho Murieta's North Gate and the Highway 16 bridge, according to the California Highway Patrol. A CHP officer at the scene said no one was taken to the hospital. Jasper Begay, the CHP's public information officer, said an officer was directing traffic after the first accident when a truck pulling a trailer "came in too fast and slid to the right," almost hitting the CHP officer's vehicle before running off the road.  "And then the third crash occurred just shortly after that," Begay said.  A CHP officer at the scene said two fire trucks were parked on the westbound shoulder near the bridge to protect emergency workers and people involved in the accident who were in danger of being hit by rubbernecking motorists. Vehicles were towed to clear the area by about 10 a.m.

The Coat Dinner, an annual charitable event where the price of admission is a gently used and clean coat, takes place Friday at the social hall of St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church on Cantova Way. Gloves, mittens, knit hats, warm scarves and sleeping bags are also accepted.

The no-host bar opens at 6 p.m. and dinner follows at 7 p.m. Dinner consists of homemade chili, salad, corn bread, dessert and coffee. All items benefit Loaves and Fishes and the Union Gospel Mission homeless outreach and support programs.

The Rancho Murieta Association board selected officers and committee chairs in record time at its annual organization meeting Wednesday.  The meeting began a couple minutes before the official 6 p.m. start time, according to the RMA meeting room clock. By 6:03, the board had passed two motions made by Director Tom Landwehr, voting to continue with the same officers and committee assignments. Read more »