[COLUMBIA, S.C. February 20, 2012] – Collins & Lacy, P.C. attorney Charles Appleby is recognized as one of the area’s top young leaders by The State Newspaper being named to this year’s class of “20 Under 40.” The State, coining this year’s class the “next wave of leaders in the Midlands,” specifically highlighted Charles’ involvement in planning the successful Famously Hot New Year Celebration in January 2012.
“With his tenacity and attention to every detail of the now famous Famously Hot New Year’s Celebration, Charles proved all the naysayers wrong who said ‘folks would not come out for a large community celebration in the dead of winter’”, said City Center Partnership President and CEO Matt Kennell. “This event helped put the ‘mojo’ back in Main Street and will reap economic and social rewards for our community for years to come.”
Charles applied his legal knowledge in retail/hospitality to collaborate with city leaders such as Mayor Steve Benjamin and Chief Randy Scott, as well as local businesses and community groups like the City Center Partnership for the inaugural celebration that drew in tens of thousands of attendees from 23 different states.
Those throughout the community recognize Charles’ drive and enthusiasm. “Charles is passionate about getting involved and staying involved in this city,” said Merritt McHaffie, executive director of the Five Points Association. “People like Charles, who give themselves willingly for the greater good, are hard to find.”
Charles, a 2011 Leadership Columbia graduate, currently serves on the USC Alumni Association Board of Governors, the Columbia Youth Commission Advisory Council. He is chair of the USC Council of Alumni Societies, vice-chair elect of the Contemporaries of the Columbia Museum of Art and an active member of the Shandon Neighborhood Council. Professionally, he’s represented clients in Magistrates Court, Circuit Court and the United States Federal Court. He is on the Editorial Board for the South Carolina Lawyer Magazine, and his articles on various legal topics have appeared in both state and national publications.
“We here at Collins & Lacy are proud to have attorneys like Charles who can strengthen the excellent legal counsel they provide to South Carolina businesses with strong community ties and a commitment to service,” said Managing Partner Ellen Adams.
