I see that one of the board members you referred to reads this forum (I'm sure you know it too because she has responded to your postings in the past). I really think that you and this board need to work together and start talking to each other instead of using the forums to fight it out.
I'm not trying to be mean in any way but I really think there is a communication problem and that is at the root of your discontent. If you can't discuss this with each other than there will be more problems and it only hinders the work that you are hopefully trying to do for your children.

I get from you that you want to make certain that the PTO isn't taking advantage.
I get from Brenda that she is just trying to find a way to boost morale and encourage involvement (although at times, her concepts have appeared to be inappropriate, I don't think that from what I have read, there is any kind of sneaky or malicious intent and in fact, included you in this because she values your involvement)
But I am going to go back to communication. When she presents an idea that you feel may not be appropriate, talk to her and express your concerns. We are here to help each other in the forums but you've heard the saying, "The lord helps those that help themselves". You need to give a little. I don't see that you are trying to resolve this with the person or persons that really matter.
Brenda, encourage the communication by asking questions. You have come across as being offended and although criticism hurts, it can also be a valuable tool if it is presented correctly and it can help you to grow if you view it in the right light. Show Nancy that you are open to her approaching you so that she doesn't feel the need to vent here.
Like I said, I'm not trying to be mean to either of you and I encourage you to seek our help as we too come to seek yours but perhaps your postings will move toward more positive things when you both make the effort to communicate. When you work together, you can accomplish great things.

O.K. Boo Hoo, points are well taken, sounds like a great book. I still think that what/how they did this was wrong but I will resist the urge to copy and paste their emails to every parent I know, remain involved and work to change our by-laws.

OKAY!!!!! I'll pay the $2 per t-shirt I owe that I bought the kids for the Fun RUN that got snowed out (imagine that in Colorado!) and now I have 200 shirts to sell, that I designed, ordered, etc. The other gals agreed to buy ours at cost ($3) just to get rid of them.
The invoice was paid in full, just need to sell these shirts!
I feel like chicken little I planted, sewed, weeded, havested, grounded, mixed and backed the oats for bread...I'm tired and want my shirt!

They are really nice, white with blue printing............

I have seen people in our PTSA polarize and then not be able to work well together. It's hard to go between groups that are dedicated to the school but because of a flare up or incident won't speak to each other.

Given what you have said, weighing what will benefit the school best seems the way to go.

I'm only part way through this book, but it has some great information about how to handle situations like this.
It's called "Crucial Conversations - Tools for talking when the stakes are high" by Patterson, Grenny, McMillian and Switzer.

Metzy, you're too funny! [img]tongue.gif[/img]

While I understand how you feel, I agree with Metzy on this. While it isn't exactly ethical, no harm is really being done, as annoying as their attitudes may be. Just buy yours at the regular price, and say nothing for now. If you start stressing over every little thing, you'll snatch yourself bald by the end of the year. Just do what you think is right, and don't give them anything to talk about.

Have you ever seen the TV show Kung Fu? Right about now, Master Po would probably say something like "Choose your battles wisely young grasshopper".

I think this is a battle that you cannot win. I also think there is no real harm in the board getting their flowers at cost as long as their children are not receiving prizes or compensation for the orders. Maybe you could meet them half way~ half their personal orders at cost. Point out to them that while there is nothing wrong with their logic, that you still feel like the school is not receiving it's full due. Of course their argument back is going to be something along the lines of "without us, this event wouldn't be happening and they wouldn't be getting any thing".

I know it's hard, but back off a little. Save your fight for something worth fighting for. I don't think this is it. Don't get yourself a tag of Hard To Work With this early in the game.

If you feel strongly about the situation, don't pay cost for your items. Remember though, that you can't throw it in their faces that you didn't pay cost for yours.

I think since your bylaws don't say anything about it, you should probably check RR's. If there isn't anything in there, start whatever process necessary to change your bylaws, if that is really the way you want to go.

Good Luck!