From the Editor

NatioNal ParliameNtariaN

Official publication of the National Association of Parliamentarians®

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National Parliamentarian generally publishes only original works that have not been published elsewhere. Articles will be edited to conform to The Chicago Manual of Style (17th ed.) and may be edited for content and length. Article text should be submitted in Microsoft Word or rich text format and transmitted via email. Illustrations, photographic prints and high-resolution photos are welcome. Materials submitted will not be returned unless special arrangements are made in advance with the editor. Contributors must include a completed “Assignment and Transfer of Copyright” form with their submission, granting NAP the copyright or permission to publish.

Submission Deadlines

Volume 82, No. 3 ....... February 1, 2021 (Spring 2021) Volume 82, No. 4 ............May 1, 2021 (Summer 2021) Volume 83, No. 1 ......... August 1, 2021 (Fall 2021)

Editor

TennieBee Hall npeditor@nap2.org

Assistant Editor

Betty Turnstall, PRP

NP Review Committee

Dana Dickson, RP-R, Chair Ronald Dupart, RP Ferial Bishop, PRP

Parliamentary Research Committee

Alison Wallis, PRP Rachel Glanstein, PRP Ann Homer, PRP Timothy Wynn, PRP, Parliamentarian

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From the Editor

We are energized when we experience the enthusiasm of newness. Whether it is when we observe organization leaders as they realize how groups can effectively meet and make decisions in a fair, consistent manner, or the young person who experiences democracy in action at an NAP meeting.

Equally invigorating are the “ah-ha” moments when we read about the history that influences the work of parliamentarians. This issue of National Parliamentarian includes two accounts in the development of making meetings efficient. In “Symbols of Authority,” James J. Connors, PRP, provides an interesting window into the history and meaning of commonly used symbols of authority. Carl Nohr, PRP, in “The Birthplace of Robert’s Rules of Order,” gives background on the restoration of the New Bedford, MA, church where General Robert realized the need for defining rules for conduct of meetings. These two articles help put our progress in development into perspective. We hope you enjoy them, along with the other fine articles.