The Manatee Forum, a charter member of the Florida Federation of Republican Women, operates under the leadership of National President Sue Lynch and State President Cindy Graves.   The strength of our National Republican Party rests on our commitment to be an inclusive organization that recognizes the value  and contribution of every Republican and our Club firmly adheres to that premise.

The Manatee Forum is a political network that includes savvy women from all educational, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.  These enthusiastic women advocate conservative American family values. A major focus is on supporting Republican efforts nationally, statewide and locally as well as educating and enlightening our members.

Each meeting features dynamic speakers usually in a panel setting, with topics that are important to the community and members. We strive to provide a positive atmosphere and venue where women can gather, learn about and discuss ballot issues and focus on campaigns. We are dedicated to providing and supporting capable candidates who aspire and commit  to Republican values.  These selected candidates will share our values and work diligently for the passage of legislation vital to the security and well being of all Floridians.

Your 2010 Board of Directors:

President - Pat Baker
Treasurer - Jan Breakbill
Lynda Hilton, Recording Secretary	Susan Benardo, Corresponding Secretary
Lynda Hilton, secretary of the Manatee Forum hails from Tennessee.  She was the lead technologist in the nuclear medicine department at the Holston Valley Medical Center. Today she is the senior nuclear and radiologic technologist at Palms of Pasadena in St Pete, FL and is a member of the Nuclear Medicine Assoc. Lynda was the secretary for Saline County REC in Arkansas where she hosted several Lincoln Day Dinner events and worked on various campaigns, including Elect Mike Huckabee. She loves being in or on the water, reading and spending time with friends and tons of family in Tennessee. She is a member of Black and Pearls and resides in Palmetto with her Westie, Bunny. While working in Arkansas, she received the User Friendly Committee Award 2 years in a row and several public and professional awards from the American Cancer Society.	Susan is a registered nurse and  has a bachelors degree in Science in Business Administration from University of South Fl.   She has worked in Health care for many years.  She initially worked at Manatee Memorial Hospital for approx. 12 yrs and then as a Director of Nursing for Rehab. Sub acute and Long Term Care Facilities.  She  currently  works  as a Risk Manager for Palm Garden, Cypress Health Care.  Susan  moved to Manatee County in 1977  and is a member of USF Alumni, Fl. Heath Care  Association, Black and Pearls, Manatee Forum and  First Baptist of Bradenton.  She is married and  has three wonderful daughters and a beautiful granddaughter.   Susan  looks forward to being an active board member and working with the Manatee Forum Republican Women Federated.
	Jane Grace, 1st VP - Programs
	Past President Jane Grace has a varied background in the political arena.She served as County VP, Financial Chair and represented her County as State committeewoman. She has lived in Florida for 12 years and before retiring here taught school for 31 years in NJ. She owned and was President of Grace's Gardens and served as horticultural judge for the Guinness Book of Records. Presently she serves as President of The Aloe Institute, a family foundation. Jane is a member of Black and Pearls, a conservation women's group, and other area Republican clubs. She enjoys going to political meetings and having lively political discussions. Having lunch with friends, being with Gene and having the 'kids' come to visit are her favorite things.