Tim Willert
GLENDALE -- His was a rising star, one struck down before it could
reach its apex.
Glendale resident Michael Ganian was an Armenian recording artist who
played the accordion and wrote and performed music with universal appeal.
"For many, many residents of Glendale he is a symbol of the spirit to
keep the Armenian culture alive," said Appo Jabarian, managing editor of
USA Armenian Life, which is published weekly in Glendale.
But Ganian was reportedly murdered one year ago today in
Czechoslovakia, details of which remain unclear.
"His death is a great loss for the Armenian culture," said Jabarian,
who is organizing a remembrance for Ganian at 11 a.m. today at Verdugo
Hills Country Club. "He was not a political activist, but he was active
in preserving his culture and heritage."
The event, which will include the dedication of an autobiography of
Ganian, is one of several events today throughout the Los Angeles area
commemorating the April 24 anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.
"From my point of view, Michael's loss is a continuation of the loss
sustained by Armenians," Jabbarian said.
An estimated 1.5 million Armenians were killed after being exiled by
the Ottoman Turks in 1915. The Turkish government denies allegations of a
genocide, and the U.S. does not officially recognize it.
IF YOU GO
The following events will take place today to commemorate the April
24th anniversary of the 1915 Armenian Genocide:
* A mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Armenian
Apostolic Church, 900 W. Lincoln Ave., Montebello.
* United Armenian Students will sponsor a 1.5-mile march through
Hollywood at 11 a.m. beginning at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard
and Hobart Street.
* A ceremony to honor the memories of Armenian Genocide victims will
be from 1 to 3 p.m. in front of the Armenian Genocide Monument at
Bicknell Park, 850 Via San Clemente, Montebello.
* The Armenian Youth Federation is sponsoring a walkathon to raise
genocide awareness at 3 p.m. Sunday at Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian
School, 1615 Alexandria Ave. in Hollywood. The march will wind its way to
the Turkish Consulate, 4801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. Transportation
will be provided back to the school.
