I can only speak for my group but everything you mention on your list is paid for by the school itself. Our PTO covers:
1. Presenters/entertainers that come to the school
2. Staff Appreciation
3. Recess supplies, equipment
4. Various supplies for the production staff (templates, etc)
5. Various supplies for the library as needed
6. A spring ice cream social
7. Book Fairs
8. Dance program
9. Holiday shopping for the kids to buy gifts
10. We donate funds yearly to a local charity that help families of students in the school that are in need.
11. A brunch for the students leaving the school and moving up to the next at the end of the year (their "graduation" if you will)
12. School "post office"
13. Invention Convention
14. Operating costs like supplies, insurance, etc.

We take on requests occasionally too for smaller supplies, improvements, etc.

Ultimately, I think it just depends on your group, your location, the economy in your area, the school's budget, many things. Everything you list is just as worthwhile and needed as anything I listed. We are lucky that the school's own budget is able to cover those items so we can continue to fund the others. It's all about what your particular school or groups needs or what kinds of programs are needed / wanted.

I've read through many posts and am starting to believe that our PTO is spending money on items that are outside the norm for other groups. Our group is responsible for - every year

Scholastic subscriptions grades 1-4 ($2259 last year)
Assignment books grades 3-5 ($1200)
Take Home Folders grades K-2 ($400)
Positive Behavior Rewards - schoolwide($500)
Rainbows Support Program - used by 4% student body ($350)

Are these expenses covered by other PTO's?

I read about the great things that other groups do and I admit I feel jealous. Would love to get the kids field day t-shirts or have a knock out Teacher's Appreciation Week or even be able to recognize our volunteers with some small token, but with 40% of our income accounted for before we even start, it's tough. Throw in another $1000 for insurance, taxes, audit and we're behind from the get-go.

Just wondering what everyone is responsible for?