Unconventional Doings in Philadelphia

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P H I L A D E L P H I A

Politicians a) shake hands, b) kiss babies, and c) talk tough about crime. And why not — the pro-robbery lobby is admittedly pretty slim. But nonetheless there is a great fascination with crime, criminals, and their ultimate fates. So to provide a great photo op background (and perhaps to help remind one of the benefit of resisting Abscam-like temptors), visit the Eastern State Penitentiary. Opened in 1829 and backed by Quaker reformists, the prison was considered a model of prison design until its abandonment in 1971, only to turn up as a film setting for the sci-fi thriller 12 Monkeys. A “pocketbook” note to prison reform advocates: When constructed, Eastern State was the most expensive building in the U.S. 2125 Fairmount Ave. (215) 236-3300. Open Wed. through Sun. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

All In the Family Values

“The Genesis of Republicanism: The Birth and Growth of the Grand Old Party, 1854–1872” is an exhibition of prints and memorabilia documenting the rise of the GOP, at the Library Company of Philadelphia. 1314 Locust Street. (215) 546-3181. Open weekdays 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Because art curators, like elephants, have long memories, the Museum of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is celebrating its collection of works purchased through grants by the National Endowment for the Arts, including pieces by Jacob Lawrence, Raymond Saunders, George Segal, Robert Motherwell, Janet Fish, and Sidney Goodman. Broad and Cherry Streets. (215) 972-7600. Mon. through Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Leveling the Playing Field

Let’s dispel an old wives’ tale, that the World Series accurately predicts the winner of the presidential election (that is, a National League team and a Democrat matching victories, or an American League team and a Republican). It’s only come out that way 13 times out of 23. BUT, in the last three elections, the presidential election went the other way (The Dodgers in 1988 didn’t assure Dukakis a job the following January, and the Blue Jays and Yankees in ’92 and ’96 didn’t help Bush and Dole). So keep that in mind as you visit Veterans Stadium to scout the competition as the Philadelphia Phillies play the Dodgers July 28–30 before skipping town on a road trip. (215) 463-1000 for general ticket information.