Moore County Republicans elected Bob Levy as chairman Saturday afternoon during the county convention at Owens Auditorium on the campus of Sandhills Community College.

Levy, who lives in North Southern Pines Precinct, formerly served as vice-chairman. He succeeds John C. Owen of Pinehurst, chairman for the past four years.

Levy and three other candidates recommended by the nominations committee were elected by acclamation. No nominations were made from the floor.

Gen. Bill Thurman of Pinehurst was elected vice-chairman, Joe Garrison of Eastwood Precinct was elected secretary and Beverly Shebs was returned as party treasurer. Garrison succeeds Do Shaver of Seven Lakes.

Lane Toomey, nominating committee chairman, presented the slate of nominees on behalf of his committee.

In accepting the party chairmanship, Levy praised Owen for his efforts to strengthen the GOP in Moore County in the past four years. He said that under Owen's leadership, the party has a strategic plan for growth, has a permanent county headquarters and has raised more money for campaign purposes than at any time in the past. He added that Moore County remains safely in Republican hands with all county elected offices held by Republicans.

"John has given us a party in fantastic shape," Levy said, at which point the convention gave Owen a standing ovation.

Levy then delivered a rousing address in which he urged Moore County Republicans to share their success with Republicans across the state and lead a surge to bring North Carolina into the GOP fold.