MIAMI, FL-Some of the most prominent Republican women will be convening in Orlando next week, but arguably the most famous of them all is not making an appearance.

Despite an invitation to speak at the conference, Sarah Palin, former vice presidential candidate, and until recently Alaska governor, has decided not to attend the National Federation of Republican Women’s 35th Convention, according to the organization.

An estimated 1,200 Republican women leaders will attend the three day conference, and some of those want Palin to reconsider.

“It is disappointing,” says Barbara Davis, who heads the Melbourne, Fla., chapter. “We were hoping that she would come. It would have benefited her to attend.”

Davis adds that she is “still very supportive” of Palin and excited to hear from the Republican speakers who will be at the gathering including Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and RNC Chairman Michael Steele.

“We don’t know what’s going on with her,” says Barbara Knauff, a NFRW member from Leesburg, Fla. “She’s not the kind to go quietly into the night, but she’s smart. She’ll come out when she can make the greatest impact.”

Knauff enthusiastically supported Palin during the 2008 campaign.

Palin has been a big draw for Republicans since she was selected to be John McCain’s running partner during their failed attempt to win the White House. She continues to appeal to many Republicans, especially female Republicans.

Politico.com reported earlier this week that she will be sorting through more than 1,070 invitations she has received for paid speeches and political appearances.

While Palin will not be going to Florida, she will be delivering a keynote speech in Hong Kong, China, later this month, according to her spokeswoman, Meg Stapleton.

On September 23rd,Palin will be speaking to a forum organized by CLSA, a Hong Kong-based brokerage firm, and will address “the company’s clients and delegates at the 16th Investors’ Forum”, according to their website.

Speakers in the past have included Bill Clinton, Al Gore and Alan Greenspan.

Palin recently signed with the elite Washington Speakers Bureau, who also represent  Bob Woodward,Colin Powell and Rudy Giuliani.