GRAY APPOINTED AS COMMISSIONER

MARBLE HILL -- Robert W. Gray, 60, of Grassy has been appointed to the Bollinger County Commission.

Gray will serve as First District commissioner, filling the vacancy created by the death of commissioner Jerry Woodfin.

Gray, a Democrat, lost to Woodfin in the 1992 general election. Gov. Mel Carnahan late last month chose Gray to fill the unexpired term.

Gray will run for a full, four-year term as commissioner in 2000.

Serving on an elected board is nothing new to Gray. "I spent 11 years on the Woodland School Board so I am pretty familiar with it," he said.

Gray said he feels qualified for the county commission post.

He operated a grocery store near the Castor River for years. "I sold the grocery store back in January." said Gray. He still works at the store three days a week, but his hours are more flexible.

"I can go and come as I please," he said.

Gray said he has been active in community affairs over the years and served on various civic boards.

As commissioner, Gray wants to see the county apply for government grants to finance needed programs or projects.