SOMETHING
Like HOME By Kate Benz Photos by Jeff Swensen
“You’re a first timer?” the guy at Guest Assistance asks. “It’s her first time to the United States.” “Her first time to Pittsburgh.” “Her first time to a baseball game.” “No way!” he exclaims, reaching behind the podium and removing an 8x10 photo of the ball field that reads MY FIRST VISIT TO PNC PARK. “Here,” he says, handing Noor Al-Sabahi a pencil. “Fill out your name.” It’s 91 degrees. There’s a banner hanging nearby that says RAISE THE JOLLY ROGER and a teenager in black, high waisted booty shorts, her bra straps visible through the sheer fabric of her t-shirt, face buried in her iPhone. And then there is Noor. Navy, turquoise and grey cotton hijab covering her brunette hair and body, leather belt around her slim waist and hosiery covering her feet. If the people walking by shouting Let’s Go Bucs! Let’s Go Bucs! are staring, she doesn’t notice. And if the entire scene seems weird, all the fans with their cut off jean shorts and their bright pink lips or their messy man buns, she doesn’t flinch. Instead, she fills out her name. “Thank you,” she smiles softly. “Yeah, you’re welcome. Have fun!” the guy behind the podium booms. “And welcome to PNC Park!” 14
| Issue 19
