Q: The mayor of Boston has been the mayor for 16 years and won another term Tuesday. In Atlanta and other cities, a person can only serve two terms. Why the huge differences in the states?

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Q: The mayor of Boston has been the mayor for 16 years and won another term Tuesday. In Atlanta and other cities, a person can only serve two terms. Why the huge differences in the states?

— Robert Brooks, East Point

A: Cities have charters, which are similar to constitutions and identify the structure of the municipal government, establish terms of office, define the distribution of power and name elected positions, said Michael Leo Owens, an associate professor in the Emory University department of political science. Voters in cities may amend city charters. The process of charter reform varies by city and sometimes the wishes of the voters are ignored and charters are changed by city councils in conjunction with mayors, he said. Boston is able to elect Thomas Menino mayor for a fifth term because its city charter allows it, while Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin is limited to two consecutive terms.

Q: Where did the term “redshirt” in college athletics originate?

—Lance DeLoach, Thomaston

A: Redshirt originated from the red jerseys worn by players, often freshmen, in practices against regular players, according to Merriam-Webster. The dictionary dates the word to 1955. It references a college athlete who is kept out of competition for a year to extend eligibility. The use of the red jersey allowed the coach to easily identify the player on the field, according to Information Please, which is part of Pearson, the world’s largest integrated education company.

Lori Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or e-mail q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).