While ratings are going downhill for Congress and lobbyists, some in Congress and the lobbying world have found a way to make it profitable and enjoyable.

During the wintertime, some members of Congress plan time for an enjoyable downhill skiing weekend in the mountains, coupled with a fundraising event for their leadership PAC or campaign committee. To help pay for the expenses of the weekend and to collect additional funds for their committees, members usually solicit contributions from lobbyists whose industries are often regulated by the members’ standing committee of Congress.

Recent ski resort events in Vail, Colorado, and Park City, Utah, highlighting fundraisers by five Congressmen and one Senator have been detailed in a New York Times article. The opportunity to enjoy an out-of-town weekend with these members of Congress is well worth the expense of the trip and the $1,000 to $5,000 contribution to the member.