Following a string of negative pieces of mail sent out by Christine Essel–ads that alleged Krekorian is anti-semitic, misogynist and hateful–outraged community leaders responded in full force.

The Armenian National Committee, Western Region, celebrated a year of successes at its annual banquet at the newly-renovated Pasadena Convention Center on Sunday, November 8, 2009. More than 800 activists and donors attended the fundraiser, which drew prominent and senior elected officials and civil servants from the federal, state, and local governments. Also joining the ANC-WR were leaders from the Armenian community, representatives from Armenian churches, educational, cultural, sporting, and social services organizations, and friends of the Armenian Cause.