Use Your INDEX Finger! David Mezzera, PRP
Since the publication of the 12th edition six months-plus ago, we have been encouraged to study the changes in RONR, beginning with the method of referencing specific citations using sections and paragraph numbers rather than pages and line numbers, then studying its content, and finally paying attention to the addition of the Appendix. Hopefully, we are well along in doing this in order to be proficient in consulting for, and advising, organizations and presiding officers. During this process, however, have you done any studying and updating your knowledge about the subjects listed in the INDEX of the 12th edition? The new Index has some interesting” inclusions. For example, have you ever noticed the main entries for such terms as: ephors (huh?), Sthenelaidas (what?), Clive Priddle (who?), or the make-believe novel Crestwood by Ernest Dunn (hmmm)? Check those out in the INDEX for a surprise or two. You can also find references to Five Towns Jewish Times and Barclay’s Digest of Rules and Practice of the House (why?) and some other unique terms such as witenagemot and witan and Village-moot! Now is the time to take up a challenge to figure out what parliamentary terms really are main headings in the 12th edition INDEX. Give your best guess before actually using your index finger to roam through pages 651-714 (that’s 54 total pages that now comprise
the Index). Write the letters A through Z on a piece of paper and indicate YES or NO as to whether you think the listed term is found as a main heading in the Index or not. A. Prayer L. Keypad M. Serpentine B. Old business N. Consensus C. So moved D. Supermajority O. Bullet voting E. Simple majority P. Railroading Q. Continued F. Conflict of meeting Interest R. Bring back G. Recusal motions H. Breakout groups S. Restorative I. Chat room motions J. Point of T. Continuing Information breaches K. Queue U. Settled rule And here’s an extra credit question: Which of the following Parliamentary Authorities is/are listed in the Index? V. Cushing Y. Cannon W. Sturgis Z. Jefferson NP X. Demeter Answers may be found on page 28 with some interesting particulars in some cases. Spend some time looking through the answer key— and checking out the INDEX— to enlighten yourself with some new details about the 12th edition. This is a teach-yourself exercise.
David Mezzera, PRP, is a past president of the California State Association of Parliamentarians and past District 8 Director.
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