Gimme shelter: not exactly how they teach it in civics class, but it's how big business keeps its edge at the capitol.

AuthorMildenberg, David
PositionUPFRONT

Several months ago, we published a story about former N.C. Sen. Tom Apodaca's plans to start lobbying in Raleigh after a required six-month cooling-off period. Though law firms had offered him jobs, he was leaning toward setting up his own shop.

That's what he did, forming Vista Strategies & Solutions Group LLC with an office near the capitol. There's little reason to fuss over the Hendersonville Republican's ethics. He's following thousands of other politicians and their groupies, cashing in on their access to decision makers.

What's more telling is Apodaca's initial list of clients. Each is what they call in the gangster movies "buying protection." It's done with gnashing of teeth, but it's a no-brainer decision for these industry giants: Making a small investment in a shrewd politico can ward off problems that could cost them many millions of dollars. Here's his list:

* Tobacco giants Altria and subsidiary Philip Morris USA make products that can shorten your life. Enough said.

* The N.C. Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association is fighting to retain control of the distribution of craft beers, which are grabbing market share from big brewers.

* London-based IGT sells technology to the state lottery, which faces image problems after The Charlotte Observer reported that a lot of convenience-store operators and...

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