If you read Hussain al Nowais’s bio, you would be able to tell pretty quickly that he was a Phillies fan. Hussain al Nowais came to America in 2006, and he was the perfect age to start rooting for the Phillies as they were tooling up for a World Series run. Although they would fall short in 2006 and 2007, 2008 would be different. Led by Cole Hamels, Brad Lidge, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard and a strong supporting cast, the Phillies were able to defeat the Rays and make a city proud. The Phillies hadn’t won a World Series since 1980, and Philly as a whole hasn’t had a championship since 1983.
Hussain al Nowais was 14 when the Phillies won the World Series and was able to make the trip out to Broad Street to see his heroes hoist the World Series trophy. 2008 was a fantastic time for baseball in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, it’s now 2015 and the Phillies have a lot to be desired. Some members of the 2008 team are still there, including Utley and Howard, but they are much older and injury-prone. Hamels is just hitting his prime, but he doesn’t want to be here. The farm system is essentially broke. Needless to say, the Phillies might not be a hot ticket this Spring and Summer.
Here are three things you should check out instead:
Kennedy Exhibit at the Constitution Center: Anyone familiar with Kennedy’s bio and achievements will find this exhibit fascinating. Jacques Lowe was able to capture photos of Kennedy and his family in rare moments unseen anywhere else. This exhibit will run until September.
Art of the Brick at the Franklin Institute: Nathan Sawaya created a once in a lifetime collection of art creations made out of LEGOs. Yes, LEGOs! Sawaya’s collection includes a T-Rex, Van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” and more. In total, there were more than a million LEGO bricks used. The exhibit will run until September as well.
Macy’s Flower Show: If you missed the Philadelphia Flower Show at the Convention Center, you still have the opportunity to check out some of the world’s most beautiful flowers in Philadelphia. The Macy’s Flower Show takes place from March 22 to April 4 at the historic Wanamaker Building, and there will be tours of the building and Grand Court.
No matter your interests you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy in Philadelphia this spring – even if that means going to a Phillies game.