In Tuesday’s Leader: New No. 2 cop, flashing lights get motorists’ attention at new stop sign, hospital limits visits

Here’s a preview of stories found in the print edition of the Tuesday, Nov. 3 Leader:

• The Hutchinson Police Department has promoted Sgt. Tom Gifferson to the rank of lieutenant. He replaces Dave Erlandson, who retired in June.

• Motorists meeting at the intersection of county roads 7 and 115 south of Hutchinson have a new set of stop signs — and numerous flashing lights and reflectors to tell them the new signs are there.

• To limit the spread of respiratory infections, Hutchinson Community Hospital is temporarily changing its policies on hospital visitation. Because of an increase in patients with flu-like symptoms, plus the local presence of the H1N1 virus, the hospital is taking precautionary measures.

• Hutchinson High School will present Virgil Swanson with an honorary degree during its annual Veterans Day program, scheduled for 9:45 and 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. Swanson had planned to graduate from Hutchinson High School with the class of 1956. Then, Uncle Sam came calling. Principal Ron Johnson said other veterans who had a similar experience can ask about receiving honorary diplomas.

• Carreen Pierson and her daughter, Ciara, have opened Sage Boutique, a consignment arts and crafts shop in Hutchinson Mall. The shop will remain open through Dec. 28. Learn more about it on the Business page.

• In Sports: The Tigers football team defeated Willmar 48-14 Tuesday night in the first playoff game. The team will take on Mankato West Friday.

• Hutchinson Theatre Company’s fall dinner theater production, “The Curious Savage,” opens Thursday night for its two-weekend run. Staff writer Kay Johnson has more about the play in Extra!

(Doug Hanneman is editor of the Hutchinson Leader. He may be reached at hanneman@hutchinsonleader.com)