http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/election/article209097664.html

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THE NEWS & OBSERVER

Sat, Sep 25, 2010

GOP stalks historic prize to control state legislature

CORNELIUS Rep. Thom Tillis’ cell phone rings to the tune of “Sunshine,” an old ’70s protest song that could be the anthem of his campaign to make N.C. history.

“This old world, she’s gonna turn around,” sings a voice. “Brand new bells’ll be ringing.”

The world Tillis and other Republicans are trying to turn around is the state legislature. Few are more single-minded in that effort than Tillis, the second-ranking House Republican.

Seventeen months ago, the Cornelius businessman quit his job as an IBM management consultant to devote himself full time to the effort. Since then he has worn out a set of tires on his Toyota pickup, traveling the state recruiting candidates and helping them hone issues and raise money.

“Very few people have the opportunity to do something that could change the course of history for the state,” says Tillis, 50. “This election without question is the most important in North Carolina since the Great Depression.”

Some analysts say Republicans – poised for big gains nationally – are well within reach of taking control of the House for the first time in more than a decade, and the Senate for the first time in more then a century. (more…)

Frank Roche, Republican candidate for the 4th Congressional District, spoke on his support for a strong national defense to members of the military, their families and guests on April 23 at the Millennium Hotel in Durham.

Brigadier General (Ret) Norman Gaddis was the guest speaker.