Trippy Anniversary; Target ATMs; Free Parking Ends In Muttenz

News For 18 April 2023

April 19th marked the 80th anniversary of Albert Hofmann, a chemist in Basel, having synthesized LSD for the first time.  Of course, people did not miss this opportunity to have a commemorative event in Basel's Ostquai district called "LSD 80-Down To Earth" featuring lectures, ethnobotanists and ritual orgy workshops.  Perhaps somewhat out of favor in popular culture, the drug has become the subject of active research as a treatment for depression.

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In 2022, 56 Automated Teller Machines were targeted by robbers.  In 44 of those cases, gas or explosives were used to dislodge the machines from their anchors leaving the criminals to run off with the ATMs and its contents.  Police have been studying the patterns criminals use in these cases.  Unfortunately, the Basel region lies in ground zero for these explosive crimes with its proximity to motorways and foreign frontiers that hamper law enforcement response.

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Muttenz, a neighboring municipality of the city of Basel has decided to phase out inexpensive curbside parking.  In addition, starting June 1, 2023 all public car parks will be subject to a fee.  White zones will continue to be free for a maximum of 3 hours, but extended stays are only possible with paid parking cards.  The comprehensive parking space management initiative is designed to increase revenues for street maintenance and reduce traffic congestion.