After years in the legislature, former state Senator Tom Apodaca is now a lobbyist. The Raleigh News and Observer reports the Hendersonville Republican filed paperwork to be recognized as such with the Secretary of State's office Tuesday. His firm's clients reportedly include Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, tobacco manufacturer Altria, and IGT - which provides equipment for the North Carolina Education Lottery. Apodaca resigned from the legislature just over six months ago, meaning the state-mandated "cooling off period" has passed and he can begin lobbyist work as the General Assembly reconvenes next week.