The Dawson County Republican Party met March. 9 to discuss the coming year.

Clint Bearden, chairman of the 2012-13 board led the Republican Party in its annual meeting.

The party met at the Bowen Center for the Arts to nominate and confirm new officers for the 2013-14 year, as well as to appoint delegates to represent the party at the District Convention in April.

The gathered members chose Linda Umberger as the chairperson for the 2013-14 Dawson County Republican Party.

Umberger says she has been an active member in the Republican party for most of her adult life. She is also the president of the Foothills Republican Women, a grassroots organization that promotes an informed public through political education and activity by increasing the effectiveness of women in government.

Bearden said he thought Umberger was a good fit for the position.

"Linda is a true asset to the Republican Party and to our community," he said. "Her passion and drive are evident in her devotion to advancing conservative values and principles."

Also elected was Chuck Gordon as first vice chair, Neil Hornsey as second vice chair, Mary Jane Childs as secretary, Dan Pichon as treasurer and Pepper Pettit as county committee person at large.

Commission chairman Mike Berg also presented Bearden with a plaque in appreciation of his "service and dedication to the Republican Party of Dawson County."

The Republican Party District Convention will be held April 19 at the Lakeview Center. Gov. Nathan Deal will be present to discuss topics pertinent to the future of the Republican Party.