Charles S. Yates

Charles S. Yates worked forty years in community and business development and served as CEO of the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority for eighteen years, retiring January 1, 2007.

Mr. Yates is a member of the Commonwealth of Virginia Board of Game and Inland Fisheries, representing the Ninth Congressional District. He also serves on Governor Kaine's Economic Development Planning Steering Committee. Mr. Yates is a sponsoring member of the Ruffed Grouse Society and President of Laurel Mountain Hunt Club. He also belongs to numerous other wildlife organizations, as well as community service organizations. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the Nature Conservancy of Virginia and numerous community service organizations, including Barter Theatre, the state theatre of Virginia.

Mr. Yates is a native of Southwest Virginia and grew up on a small farm near Haysi. He is an avid bird hunter and owns five hunting dogs. He also enjoys fishing, hiking, gardening, golf and tennis. Mr. Yates resides in Cleveland, Virginia, with his wife, Pauletta.