Only one out of eight state lobbyists reported any expenses in 2007.

According to a compilation of lobbyist expense forms, only 78 lobbyists reported spending any money on transportation, entertainment, dining, meetings or gifts last year. Another 526 lobbyists reported zero expenses during the same time.

Under lobbying laws effective Jan. 1, 2007, lobbyists must file reports with the N.C. Secretary of State on a quarterly basis noting the "fair market value" of any money spent on behalf of a client.

However, few lobbyists write much on the forms, which are filed separately for each client. Of the 93 expense forms with anything listed, 33 were for $100 or less. Only 15 forms listed more than $500 in expenses.

In all, the lobbyists reported spending $46,091, with roughly 60 percent of the money going toward transportation and lodging. Another $13,353 was reported as spent on food and beverages.

The single largest expense was $9,206 by lobbyist Gordon Myers for The Facility Group. He reported spending the money on travel and a conference.

Lobbyist Peter Gilmore reported spending $7,500 on behalf of the Dole Food Co. to sponsor a Farm Day.

And lobbyist Roger Bone reported spending $500 a piece for nine clients on the N.C. Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association's annual "Rush the Growler" party for legislators, Council of State members and their staffs.