I think "anon" is just annoyed that other people are getting donations and maybe anon is losing out....could it be after getting the same donations for "12 years" those companies would like to diversify?

I also think that there are so many worthy causes and companies have the option of picking and choosing. Win some, lose some. As for our of state donations, why would we NOT try to get out of state donations? Our auction is having an around the world theme and we are getting vacation packages for all major hot spots like NYC, Chicago, FL, LA, Colorado, etc. We include air in some packages and not in others. PERSONALLY, if I can buy a week at a vacation rental, I am MORE than willing to pay the airfare - as I just did last summer after buying a week in Martha's Vineyard at a school auction.

Having unique and diverse items for an auction is what keeps bringing people back year after year - not the same old restaurants, items, etc. that are at every auction.

Just my 2 cents. And thank you to everyone for the great ideas! I have used many of them - but instead of asking for the same old, same old, we ask for different things - like a tour of the brewery or a special chef's dinner. We ask national companies for items we can package together. Many are more willing to give a smaller priced item to be packaged together than "the big give." Good luck to all!

For Portrait Innovations, call your local store and they will give you the email to write to. I don't have it on me but the local store will give it to you. They were very nice and quick also.

I saw that someone was able to get $100 credit/gift card from Portrait Innovations. Did you call their main office or was there an area on their website? Or did you call your local branch?

Thanks!

This message is for crusaders....You menstioned that your group received the Elite vacation package and your group decided to pay for the meal plan and made it a whole package deal.....We also received the Elite vacation package....How much was the mela plan?

Thank you
Rhonda

I think maybe Anon is having a rough day! We all have them and deal with it in different ways. The interesting part is that "ya people" or more commonly known as average American PTO member, who positively uses this board are "goofs", "lazy", and brainless. Yes, that sounds like me! Right!!! Now on to useful and more productive things.

I think many of us live in a tri-state area and thus look to businesses outside of our own state. Even if you didn't, you don't have to defend your reasons for soliciting from a non-local business. The businesses ultimately make the decision. Also, out-of-town visitors help our local economies grow, too. Don't forget, they are the ones more likely to stay at hotels, take taxis, eat out every meal during their visit, etc.