Canton Zurich Simplifies Swiss Citizenship; Brawl At Schorenmatte; Vigilant Neighbors Foil Night-time Sewing

News For 17 May 2022

Sunday saw the approval of a historic referendum question simplifying the citizenship process for foreigners living in canton Zurich.  The canton, home to 162 municipalities including the city center is host to almost 350,000 foreign residents, almost a quarter of the population.  The referendum, which passed with almost 70% support, will create a single, centrally administered citizenship test and naturalization process.  Those seeking citizenship will need to correctly answer 60% of the questions on the test in addition to interviews and applications.

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On Saturday night 5th division football teams Kleinhüningen and Kaiseraugst met for a scheduled match at Kleinhüningen's home pitch Schorenmatt sports field.  During the game a supporter of the home team stormed the field and attacked an opposing player with a beer bottle.  This precipitated further fighting which culminated in a bench-clearing brawl involving both sides.  Fortunately, the fight was eventually stopped and the game resumed and was completed as scheduled.  Afterwards, both teams attended a meeting to discuss the events and how to avoid altercations in the future.

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Recently, a Basel police patrol was dispatched to an apartment when neighbors noticed beams of light emanating from a darkened room.  Upon arrival, the police were greeted by a confused resident who eventually explained that his wife likes to sew at night while wearing a headlamp in order to not disturb him.  After a few laughs, the police departed without incident.