Charlie Crist to keynote Manatee Democrats' annual dinner

This just in:

Former Florida Governor Charlie Crist will be the keynote speaker at the Manatee County Democrats annual awards dinner and dance on March 15 at the Fete Ballroom of the Polo Grill in Lakewood Ranch.

Crist was a Republican governor of Florida from 2006 through 2010 who ran in 2010 for the U.S. Senate as an Independent.  He campaigned for President Barack Obama in 2012 and late last year changed his party registration to Democrat.

Manatee Party Chair Patty Benson notes that Democrats are eager to hear the message of someone who has a history of working across the aisle, but also one who brings a track record of supporting  issues which are important to local Democrats and many Floridians.

"Charlie cares about kids, he cares about education and about less fortunate Floridians," Benson said in announcing his appearance.  "His mother was an educator and his father was a doctor, so he comes from the sort of roots that are inherent to the experiences of middle class families, and it shows."

Event organizers have put together an evening of cocktails, dinner, auction and raffle activity, and dancing to music by The Ciceron Brothers.  Auction items include rounds of golf, fine art, restaurant gift certificates and a three night stay at a Bermuda beach resort.

The event begins at 6 PM and the cost is $75.00 per person. Checks may be mailed to Manatee County Democratic Party, PO Box 10605, Bradenton, FL 34282.

Lucy Lapides is Chair of the Dinner-Dance committee. She can be contacted at 941-704-5971 or lucylap@yahoo.com.