Last year I earned 21,824 EQM. I received an offer from Continental in January saying that I could acheive Silver Elite by paying a certain amount of money. I don't remember what it was, but I'm pretty sure it was less than $200 because I seriously considered doing it. (I didn't because I planned only one trip on Continental for 2003) But since you would be required to pay anyway, it might make sense just to make a quick trip somewhere that will give you the miles you need and then you won't be at their mercy.