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This content was published: October 29, 1998. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.

Filipino Author, Educator Peter Bacho to Read at Sylvania Bookstore

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University of Washington professor and author Peter Bacho has built up quite a loyal following of people seeking a unique understanding and appreciation of the Filipino culture.

Portland Community College hopes to increase that following at a reading from Bacho’s new book on Friday, Nov. 20 at the Sylvania Campus Bookstore lobby from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Sylvania Campus is located at 12000 S.W. 49th Avenue.

Bacho, a second-generation Filipino-American and U of W professor of liberal studies and Filipino history, has chronicled his view of Filipino life for years in fiction books such as "Cebu" and the more recent short story collection, "Dark Blue Suit and Other Stories." Bacho won the American Book Award for "Cebu" and received the Washington state Governor’s Award on Oct. 25 for "Dark Blue Suit and Other Stories." He will read excerpts from "Dark Blue Suit and Other Stories" and sign books afterward. Refreshments will be available at the event.

A former newspaper reporter who also trains prize fighters in his spare time, Bacho is known for packing a punch with his words as well, according to Claire Oliveros, coordinator of the PCC Multicultural Center, the sponsor of the reading.

"His words are powerful," Oliveros said. "He provides a clear message when he speaks and he is very captivating."

A Seattle Times piece noted Bacho’s higher purpose in its March 1, 1998 issue: "This Seattle author writes about Filipino immigrants so history won’t forget them."

Bacho will also appear at Portland State University later in the evening on Nov. 20, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Smith Memorial Center Browsing Lounge, 1825 S.W. Broadway. This reading is co-sponsored by the PCC Multicultural Center and PSU. Both readings are free and open to the public

For more information on the scheduled readings, or on Peter Bacho, contact Claire Oliveros at 977-4112.