Unless there is a change in the board, the life members are out, not the board. WAS a mistake. Too little money was charged for membership, too many benefits were offered. Life memberships should be a commitment to an organization, not a chance for freebies. The fund is of little importance, it can be replenished by future boards, much as the way it was originally conceived.
Any money removed can be paid back in the future, the length of time is again immaterial.
The life membership can be reintroduced in several ways, but it must be arranged by consensus, which means there may be imput from people you don't like, get over it. I know personally of several others who are going to stop any support of the IJA not only with any membership but also with significant future contributions. The loss to the organization is going to be far more than they realize. Nothing gets done and all this constant complaining just goes on forever. I don't see how we are winning just by the fact that Walt has posted a few times.