For most of these people who are shunnung the RMSA,
The Club was good enough for them until Lisa's situation was revealed publicly. Many have stated that they knew about Lisa's hording and the neglect for years, some have called animal control some have not, regardless they still showed up for meetings and events knowing full well what was going on. I commend Eric for not making a rash decision and going against the bylaws. He is not sticking up for Lisa, nor is he trashing her publicly. Lisa has a severe psychological disease it would be foolish for the RMSA to deny that. Making a fast decision without following the bylaws would not only be ethicaly wrong but could also put the club in jepordy legaly for discrimination of a person with a disability. Sounds far fetched right? Working for a law firm will open your eyes to the many horrors and injustices of the law suit world. I believe that Eric & Linda have nothing but the best interest of the entire club in mind. He IS following the bylaws (read them on the RMSA website).
We should be standing up for our club, explaining that we are trying to do all we can to help Lisa and telling that we are taking the steps outlined in our bylaws to remove her as a representative of the club. I agree with Sally that Lisa needs to admit she has a problem, otherwise she will never be able to overcome it. Should we not also admit our guilt in staying with the club for so many years, should we not strive to make the club what we though it was before all of this? Collectively we can change the lives of so many birds (that's what it is truly all about) who may not have a chance otherwise, we can still educate, and do charitable work. "Troublemakers" stand up for your club fight to win back our good name and reputation. The club will go on with or without you, but I would much rather it be with you.

Thank you

As a non-RMSA member, I agree the club is not in any way directly responsible for Ms McManus' behavior. Members of the club tried to help her clean up, tried to show her the error of her ways and probably did report her to animal control. (It always takes these agencies a while to respond.) This is what friends do. Unfortunately, when Board members and general members allowed her to run for office, allowed her to hold prestigious positions in the club, knowing what her cages looked like, how her birds lived, etc, THAT was enabeling a hoarder. As a former hoarder, I have to say that was irresponsible of the club and could have been an opportunity to change Ms McManus in a quiet, nonpublic manner. But now, the truth is out, Ms McManus is no longer on the Board and the furvor is dying. It is important to now make sure it doesn't happen again and to make sure the club continues to fulfil it's mission of companion bird education. To that goal, all members are needed and those who left should return. Don't let her separate you from the club that has done so much good.