Proud To Be A Tabler

Proud To Be A Tabler at the PACART AGM Goa

2009-07-10T19:55:00.000+01:00

WATCH THIS SPACE

2009-07-05T20:47:00.001+01:00

WE HAVE BEEN GRATIFIED BY THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE MISSED US AND WANT US BACK!!! PROUD TO BE A TABLER WILL START POSTING AGAIN NEXT WEEK FROM RT INDIA COB AND OUR TOUR OF FTE SCHOOLS.

The Video Backdrop I Couldn't Use

2009-05-12T09:37:00.002+01:00

Vice Presidential Candidature Speech

2009-05-12T09:26:00.001+01:00

Steven Way, Welling Round Table 503

Round Table Matters, it matters to you, it matters to our communities and it matters to me. In fact it matters so much to me and I am so passionate that I want you to grant me the privilege of being your Associations guardian for twelve months.

My experience on National Executive gives me an excellent knowledge of how the association runs but I am not so close to day to day administration that it swamps me – I have been able to take a broad look at National from within and see where change could be beneficial.

“National” does not have all the answers, equally nor does the wider membership. Those who have been at national Council meetings will know I can be outspoken but they will also know that I am prepared to listen, to debate and to have my mind changed. The future of this Association is founded in debate and consensus not dictat.

Communication and openness is vital. We are not a political party, we are not a secret society, we are a social group. Open communication is key to everything we do and everything we aim to be.

I believe that your National Executive needs to be proactive in visiting tablers at their meetings not just attending their formal events. It is only then that they can understand what you want and we can truly support each other in our endeavours.

There will be lots of debate today about cutting our cloth. I believe it is right that members pay the true cost of membership but in so doing we must all feel that we are getting value and benefit for that subscription.

I am an advocate for change and modernisation, but only for the better and not for it’s own sake. I am proud of our heritage and tradition but I am not a sentimentalist.

I believe that National needs review. The rules of our Association should encourage local development and administration of Tables - surely matters such as attendance, dress code and procedure are best managed at a local level? Do we really need 52 pages of rules and standing orders? I don’t think so.

Our common thread of Aims and Objects holds all tables together yet every Table in this country is different. That is true strength of this Association and one that we should be proud of and build upon. There is space for tables of all types, charitable, large, small, casual and formal but any attempt to produce a standard product at a local level will fail. My Round Table experience will be different to yours and yours but every bit as rewarding.

National should exist to provide a framework and consistency of purpose within which every Table can operate to suit the needs of it’s own community and members.

Like it or not (and I know a lot of you don’t) there is a need for permanent skilled management to run the Association and help achieve countrywide prosperity.

For the past few years we have heard much about the search for new members, the only people who can improve the membership of your table is you, your national executive cannot do that for you.

I am of the view that reducing the resignation rate is key to our growth as this outstrips new membership. If we can reduce the resignation rate by just 200 a year then numbers will grow. This is an area where National input can be beneficial and I would make a priority.

Programme is key. If your programme and the cost of that programme is right your table will succeed, your members won’t leave and new members will come.

Your National President undertakes hundreds of table visits a year. He is our figurehead attending your table meetings and represents the public face of your Association. 200 Table visits a year takes a lot of time, I can tell you I have the absolute support of Karen - or table bird - in this endeavour. My liver and stomach are in fine working order and ready for the challenge ahead.

Without doubt my experience in owning and managing a professional practice can only benefit this role and being self-employed I have the flexibility of time and finance essential to this role.

We forget at our peril that this is your Association, it is owned by the members and run by them for them. I am personally dedicated to ensuring sustainable survival for the next generation, I am proud to be a tabler, I want my sons and your sons to be proud tablers too. I can help make that happen, I look forward to your support. Thank you

Malvern RT Support the Air Ambulance (with help from Lordys Tuc Tuc)

2009-04-21T06:23:00.001+01:00

MIDLANDS Air Ambulance has received a £600 boost from members of the Malvern Round Table.

The money was raised during an event at Waitrose car park which featured a visit from a ‘tuc tuc’ vehicle passing through on route from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

It represents part of a national Round Table initiative in support of the Air Ambulance service across the UK.

Malvern Round Table chairman Richa rd Stride said: “Members fully appreciate the work of the Midlands Air Ambulance and I am delighted that we were able to make this contribution to a popular local charity.”

Annie Newell, area fundraising manager for Midlands Air Ambulance received the cheque from Round Table members: “The charity is extremely grateful to members of the Malvern Round Table for their support and kind donation to our charity.”

Air Ambulance receives no government, NHS or lottery funding and requires £5.6 million each year to ensure the life saving helicopter service continues to fly across the region.

Malvern Hills Round Table

RT India – Persuading the population to vote…

2009-04-21T06:21:00.001+01:00

An early morning walk in Bangalore on a Sunday to take a pledge to vote! Around 600 members from all walks of life participated in the `Lets Vote' walk campaign to spread awareness and encourage people to vote near the Mahatma Gandhi statue on MG Road.

The walk was organised by the Round Table India, a body of entrepreneurs and professionals working as a group to conduct philanthropic activities, 30 volunteers were selected who in turn will go door-to-door and persuade Bangaloreans to vote.

"Only 40% of the 700 million voters in the country vote. This campaign aims to target the remaining 60%'' explained area chairman Round Table India, Karnataka Chapter, Naveen Pishe. Parties choose candidate according to caste and community. Here, educated class should step in and make a difference by electing the right candidate, he said.

The nation-wide campaign was earlier held in Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad and Vishakapatnam to raise awareness about the importance of exercising one's franchise. A similar walk will also be held at Mysore next week.

RT Luxembourg – Win a car at their Duck Race…

2009-04-21T06:17:00.001+01:00

Thousands of plastic ducks will gather in Luxembourg City next Saturday 25th April for the ninth annual duck race.The traditional event is organized by Round Table Luxembourg under the High Patronage of the City of Luxembourg.

As in the past, money raised from the duck race will benefit a charity. This year, the entire amount will be used to support TEO, an association committed to helping children in third world countries who are suffering from brain tumors or head trauma. Since 2001, the duck race has become increasingly popular. Last year, 9,000 participants took part. A donation of 25,000 euros was made to the Luxembourg Association for people with rare neuromuscular diseases (ALAN). (Steves note – that is a whole heap of dough!!!)

For the first time, the race will be held this weekend in the Pétrusse valley, specifically at St. Quirin near Minigolf. At 3 p.m., the ducks will be launched into the Pétrusse below the Viaduct. The finish line is at the parking lot near the entrance of St. Quirin in front of the restaurant Fragolino. As usual, the duck race will be accompanied by entertainment for everyone at noon.

Those wishing to participate may buy tickets in advance for 5 euros. All the ducks have a number corresponding to a number of a lottery ticket. Tickets are available from Round Table members, the Luxembourg City Tourist Office, the electrician shop Steffes at Luxembourg-Gare, Pitcher's Brewery in Esch / Alzette and the store Schornsteintechnik Emil Antony in Ettelbruck. The last chance to buy a duck will be on site before the start of the race.

The first ducks to cross the finish first will receive one of many prizes such as trips, gift certificates, dinners and other attractive prizes offered by sponsors. This year's first prize is a New Twingo car.

Goodbye from Ledbury RT

2009-04-21T06:12:00.001+01:00

LEDBURY Round Table, running for more than 50 years in the town, has closed down after recruitment drives failed to reverse the dwindling membership.

The branch has been a mainstay of local fundraising over the years and is particularly known for holding the annual bonfire night celebrations in Ledbury Park.

Members marked its half-century just seven months ago with a Charter Dinner at the town’s rugby club.

More than 150 past and present members attended the event, including some who had been there from its start in 1958.

The group met for years at Ledbury’s Talbot Inn, recently the scene of a devastating fire, where the Round Table charter adorned a wall.

Landlord Andy Ward, a former Tabler himself, said: “It’s very sad and we will miss them. When we first took over the pub in ‘94 or ‘95 they had about 2 5 to 30 members and over the years they have dropped down to nothing really.”

Round Table clubs nationally have seen serious drops in membership recently.

Dave Battrick, current member and former chairman of Newent Round Table, said numbers had dropped at his branch, but he was confident a new programme of events this year could reverse the trend.

He said: “It’s a pattern that has been happening right across the country.

“One of the things that we’re doing over this next year is a lot more community based projects that will re-aquaint us with the local community. It will mean we’re a bit more high-profile.”

Bury St Edmunds Round Table – more santa in the community

2009-04-21T06:08:00.001+01:00

Grants totalling £4,200 have been handed out to worthy causes by Bury St Edmunds Round Table at the group's annual presentation evening.Money raised at the table's firework spectacular in the Abbey Gardens, last November, was given to grateful recipients at the organisation's meeting house in Whiting Street, Bury, last week.

Sophie Frost, eight, who suffers from a muscle disorder, was given £700 for a special trike to help strengthen her legs.
Cadets from Thurston Air Training Corps (ATC) collected a cheque for £500, to help fund the squadron's planned visit to the Falkland Islands in October, which will cost £15,000.
The First Response team from RAF Honington, which provides emergency first aid to 800 calls a year, was given £500 to help fund its £5,000 annual running costs.
West Suffolk Headway was also given £500 to help fund its arts and IT tuition for people with brain injuries in the region
Elmswell Scout Group was handed £500 towards buying new tents for the group's camping expeditions.
Bury St John Ambulance crew was given £500, which will go towards a new defibrilator
Residents at Fieldview sheltered housing scheme, in Thurston, plan to use their £500 for a computer, to allow residents to produce a newsletter.
Paul Hopfensperger, who has swum the English Channel twice to raise money for St Nicholas Hospice Care, in Bury, was also given £500 towards his fund-raising effort.

Anton Woodward, chairman of Bury Round Table, presented the cheques alongside Peter Manley, national president of the association.

www.buryroundtable.co.uk

from Bury Free Press

NSW 2009

2009-04-21T06:04:00.001+01:00

If you plan to attend The RTBI Gladiator Games in Colchester in September then £20.00 may well buy you six pints; or four cab fares; or airport car parking; or your polo shirt. So BOOK NOW, by clicking here, to keep that £20.00 in YOUR pocket.

You have until April 30th before we put up our prices - and, because we know the event will sell out we can be strict about our timing. Our website www.nsw2009.co.uk will show you full details of the weekend's agenda. We have sixteen sports for you to choose to compete in; we have the delectable SIREN to entertain you; we have bar facilities that will be the envy of all past Sporting Weekends; we have trophies for winners; and, most importantly - we think - we have a proper brass band for the Gala Dinner celebrations!

Come to Colchester - take part in the sporting endeavours - contribute with your wit and repartee - bring your Area Friends, new and old - but most importantly - GET YOUR DISCOUNT!

Are You Ready For Eastbourne

2009-04-21T06:02:00.001+01:00

National Conference is nearly upon us… if you’re not booked in then please do. An interesting day of debate is lined up for the National Capitation proposal. Nothing has caused quite as much correspondence and bile as the proposal to increase our annual capitation and use some of that to employ a CEO (or someone who may not have that title) who can drive our Association forward on a permanent basis. Our members views do matter so the debate is important.

An Innovative Way of Community Involvement…

2009-04-21T05:58:00.001+01:00

IT IS TIME to dust off those brooms, dig out the paintbrushes — and join the great Ilfracombe Spring Clean.

And just like last year, there will be plenty of encouragement for residents to get involved in brightening up their local area.

Returning after its huge success last year, the month-long Spring Clean, which is supported by the Journal , will run throughout April in a bid to bring in a good old fashioned dollop of elbow grease to get the town looking at its best for the coming summer season.

As an incentive to get involved the Journal is again running a competition to find the most improved spots in Ilfracombe, in conjunction with Ilfracombe Round Table, who will provide cash prizes for the best bits.

These could be anything from a house front, a garden, public green space, alleyway or even the clearing and planting of a rubbish-strewn verge.

Paul Crabb, from Ilfracombe Round Table, said: "In most cases it won't take a lot of work to make an improvement which will have a massive wow-factor impact, so we hope everyone will get out there in the spring sunshine and get things done."

He said the Round Table would offer a prize of £100 for the most improved spot plus £50 for the runner-up.

To enter the competition, simply e-mail us a photograph of your intended clear-up spot before it is renovated and another after it has been spruced up, so we can see the difference.

from North Devon Co.UK

Round Table Italy - Earthquake Appeal

2009-04-09T23:05:00.000+01:00

After the terrible earthquake in Italy, our Round Table friends have started an appeal fund to assist the homeless -

Dear friend,

Round Table Italy decided to start collecting founds pro Earthquake in Abruzzo.

Everybody, there, need everythings, clothes, food, water, chemical baths, etc etc; there are a lot of homeless (30.000).

I hope you want to help us; so, please, see the details:

Name of Bank: Banca di Cividale

IBAN: IT71S0548412302044570420776

BIC Swift: CIVIIT2C

Account Name: Round Table Italy

Cause: Earthquake Abruzzo from R.T. ________

Danish RT AGM?

2009-03-25T20:10:00.001Z

Click here for details, it is a really good one BUT it’s the same weekend as Eastbourne

Football in Northallerton -

2009-03-25T20:05:00.001Z

YOUNG footballers are being urged to join forces and enter Northallerton’s first five-a-side football tournament designed to reduce unruly behaviour.

As part of a series of actions to reduce anti-social behaviour in the town, the Northallerton Safer Neighbourhoods Police Team, 4 Youth and the North Riding County Football Association are hoping 11 to 17 year olds will enter the contest.

Teams of six can enter in two age groups – 11 to 13 years olds and 14 to 17 year olds, with mixed girls and boys teams welcome in the younger age bracket.

Sergeant Simon Wilson, of Northallerton police, said: "We are hoping this event will go some way towards reducing anti-social behaviour in the town.

"We want to see as many young people as possible playing with their families and friends coming along to support them – making it a real family day out."

The event – which is being supported by Northallerton Town Council, Broadacres Housing Association and Northallerton Round Table - takes place at the Applegarth Park on Sunday, April 19, between 2pm and 6pm.

Oh No… More Beer

2009-03-25T20:01:00.001Z

More than 40 beers and ciders will be on tap at the fourth annual Aylsham Round Table charity beer festival next month.
Local ales from breweries including Woodforde's, Winters and Why Not microbrewery will be served alongside beers from further afield, with ciders and soft drinks available and food from the fish and chip shop opposite the festival.

With 300 drinkers each night, last year's event raised £2,500 for local charities. The festival is staffed and run by Aylsham Round Table members, who hope that people interested in learning more about the group or becoming members will take the opportunity to come along and get involved.
The festival takes place at the Community Centre, Cawston Road, Aylsham from 6pm to 11.30pm on April 17 with jazz band entertainment and from 11am to 11.30pm on April 18 with a rock band in the evening.

from North Norfolk News

A Steaming Pile of Sh1t

2009-03-25T19:58:00.001Z

Here’s a novel fund raising idea from Ashbourne Round Table -

ASHBOURNE Round Table members are gearing up for a charity "Muck Run" to raise money for two local charities.

On Sunday, the fund-raisers will be delivering bags of well-rotted horse manure to the gardeners of Ashbourne and surrounding villages.
Bags can be ordered in advance for just £1.50 but buyers have until Friday to give their address, phone number and delivery details.
The group has now made the muck run an annual event and this year's proceeds will be going to the Station Road Playgroup and Mid-Derbyshire Riding for the Disabled.

eBay watch – Rossendale Round Table Football Competition

2009-03-21T00:38:00.001Z

Remember this, seems that celebrity football matches were a regular fixture for Round Table in the sixties. Get this slice of table history here

Phil Taylor Helps Round Table Childrens Wish

2009-03-19T16:49:00.001Z

World darts champion Phil 'The Power' Taylor drops into Bristol next month to take on the city's best players.

Taylor takes a welcome break from competition when he appears at a charity event to raise funds for the Round Table Children's Wish charity on

Friday, April 10.

But he insists he will not be holding back against Bristol's best.

"It is going to be fun," said Taylor, who has just been crowned Ladbrokes.com World Champion for 2009. "It will be a nice break from the old routine, like a busman's holiday for me

From – Western Daily Press

Lanark Fight Night Update

2009-03-19T16:41:00.000Z

FIGHT night helps raise more than £5000 for charity. Organised by Lanark and District Round Table, more than 400 people attended the event.
And they witnessed 22 boxers go toe to toe in 11 action packed three-round bouts featuring bantamweights, lightweights, welterweights, light heavyweights and super heavyweights.
The Round Table has played host to a number of exhibition bouts before.
But these Amateur Boxing Scotland fights were for the right to compete in the final of the national championships in Bonnyrigg on March 27.
Graeme Glen, event organiser, said: "It went down really well and there was a great atmosphere all night.
"Other nights we've had have been exhibitions but these were actual title fights and the competition was deadly serious.
"To my untrained eye the fights were all of a high standard — I didn't want to climb in the ring with them, that's for sure!"

from The Carluke Gazette

More Beer Festivals - Chester Round Table

2009-03-18T17:09:00.001Z

Chester Grosvenor Round Table will hold the 21st Chester Charity Beer Festival from May 14-16 at Chester Rugby Club.Tickets can also be obtained on-line at www.chesterbeerfestival.co.uk, priced at £5 for the Thursday night, £8 for Friday and £7 for Saturday.

There will be a choice of more than 70 real ales along with ciders, perries, wine, soft drinks and a choice of hot and cold snacks to help soak up the beer.

Chester and South Clywd branch of CAMRA will be assisting the Round Table in hosting the event.

In 2008, the event donated nearly £7,000 to local charities such as Cherry Grove Primary School, Claire House Children’s Hospice, CHICS (Children’s Cancer Support Group) and Chester and District Stroke Club.

This year the main charities are Claire House Children’s Hospice, North West Air Ambulance and Countess of Chester Hospital Special Care Baby Unit through the Baby Lifeline appeal.

Last year more than 2,000 people attended over the three evenings, making it a popular and cost effective was to promote local businesses.

For business sponsorship opportunities, companies should log onto the Round Table website and follow the sponsorship link.

The Human Fruit Machine...

2009-03-18T16:57:00.001Z

On Friday 13th March, shoppers at Asda Rawtenstall were in for a treat when they were greeted by a real life fruit machine.

The Human Fruit Machine was brought to life by members of the Rossendale Round Table, who brought smiles to the faces of shoppers as they tried their luck whilst raising money for Comic Relief. In all, Rossendale's Human Fruit Machine raised £326.57 for Comic Relief.

Fight Night in Lanark

2009-03-17T16:49:00.001Z

A CHARITY evening at Lanark Auction Market promises to pack a punch like no other!

For the venue will stage ten fiercely contested Amateur Boxing Scotland
semi-finals at 48kg, 54kg, 60kg, 69kg, 81kg and 91+kg.
Organiser Graeme Glen said: "It's great that this country's top amateur boxers are coming to Lanark.
"There should be a great atmosphere on the night."
The event is Lanark and District Round Table's main fundraiser for 2009.

Coventry Fun Run - 3 Spires RT

2009-03-17T16:47:00.001Z

ORGANISERS are already limbering up for this year’s Coventry Fun Run with the hope of making it a record-breaker.

The Three Spires Round Table aims to double the number of runners taking part this year to 6,000.

This year’s event will take place on June 28, starting as usual in the city’s War Memorial Park.

Coventry Fun Run was launched in 1982 and has been held every year since – except in 2007 when it had to be abandoned due to bad weather – raising about £1.2 million for a range of good causes.

It is one of the country’s only fun runs which has no nominated charity, allowing runners to decide who will receive the money they collect.

The main sponsor for this year’s run will be Midlands-based health insurer BHSF, with additional backing from Coventry Building Society and Mercia FM.

Peter Maskell, chief executive of BHSF, said: “When we heard that the Fun Run was in need of support we were delighted to step in and help.”

“The main thing is to enable the runners to add further to the £1.2 million already raised.”

One of the mainstays of the Coventry Fun Run is the support of local schools and sports clubs.

Mike Clarke chairman of Three Spires Round Table, said: “We are keen to get even more youngsters than ever involved.”

Coventry Fun Run Homepage

Have You Seen Our Rondel

2009-03-17T16:41:00.001Z

To celebrate three-quarters of a century The Huddersfield Round Table is hoping to find its main symbol – a giant rondel which disappeared 20 years ago.

The society hopes the large circular emblem will be returned in time for their charter dinner at Huddersfield Golf Club, Fixby Hall, on Saturday May 16.

Huddersfield Round Table (HRT) formed at the George Hotel in 1934 as the 68th Round Table (hence the ‘68’ in the society’s name) in Britain.

Since then it has had nearly 400 members and has raised many thousands of pounds for charities around Huddersfield.

And HRT has raised further cash for good causes through establishing spin-off tables at Huddersfield Pendragon, Holmfirth, Colne Valley, Holme Valley and Elland.

The society’s key events included a children’s party for war orphans in the post-war years and a sponsored slim weight loss campaign in the 1970s.

It has held events ranging from finding tricycles for needy children to donating audio equipment and a canoe marathon.

And every Christmas since 1952 HRT has collected food parcels from doorsteps across Huddersfield and donated them as parcels to elderly people.

HRT chairman Richard Barker said: “It’s fantastic we’ve reached this important milestone.

“HRT is an integral part of the social and community fabric of Huddersfield representing our town both at home and abroad. We hope that this may continue for many years to come.

“HRT’s social program is truly varied offering Huddersfield members and their families the opportunity to go paint-balling, sailing, to formal dinners, parties, barbecues, camping, a day at the races, hot air ballooning and even international visits.

“It would be great to have our roundel back at out 75th charter dinner. So if anyone knows where it is please let us know.”

For more information on HRT visit: www.huddersfield68roundtable.org.uk or email chairman@huddersfield68roundtable.org.uk

From the Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Tabler Magazine - Spring 2008

2009-03-10T08:04:00.001Z

Is now available online - Click Here

Nomination for President Elect - Nomination Statement

2009-03-07T13:50:00.002Z

This is the full text of my statement supporting my nomination as National Vice President (President Elect) Round Table 2009-2010

Your organisation is at a critical point in its history. It is in a process of evolutionary change that needs careful, knowledgeable and effective management to ensure satisfactory delivery and to secure its long-term future. My candidature to serve as your President-Elect is presented in the full knowledge of those requirements and of the challenges ahead.

From the experience gained on both National Council and National Executive and the skills developed in business I not only have something to add as a guardian of your organisation but I have the tenacity, ability and character necessary to fulfil the role successfully.

Change will not come without pain. I believe that engagement with, and the sanction of, all individual members is essential in easing that process. I acknowledge that one cannot please all the people all the time but dictatorial direction is not my style, neither is sentimentality for the past. Acknowledgement of the organisations proud history, heritage and community standing most certainly is.

I joined Round Table in 1996 and have held a range of offices at all levels - I would lying if I suggested I had been good at all of them, but I have enjoyed every one and delivered benefit to members at every level. I am an advocate for international tabling and have travelled widely with Round Table.

Professionally I own and manage a successful Chartered Surveying Practice where my team of dedicated staff allow me the privilege of giving Round Table plenty of time. Karen and my children fully back my ambition and are often found with me at Table events. Whilst I believe that family should form an important part of Table life Round Table must remain a young mans organisation true to Marchesi’s original vision.

Above all, I am proud to be a Tabler. Steven Way

Ever Thought of Standing for National Exec? - I Have!!

2009-02-24T23:22:00.001Z

The nomination forms for National Office and National Councillor along with the guide lines are now available for download from the website.

The forms are within the members area under Resources then Guides and Information.

Can I remind you that the Nomination Forms for National Office need to be completed and returned to me no later than twelve noon on Saturday 7th March 2009, the date of the next Council meeting in Portsmouth.

The forms need to be signed by the Area Chairman following an Area meeting and the Table Chairman and Secretary, all the information is in the guide lines.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact me or John Kilshaw

Mo-vember?

2009-02-24T23:18:00.001Z

RUGBY star Chris Horsman is throwing his considerable frame behind a Midland-based campaign to raise awareness of cancers affecting men.

More than 40 members of Round Table groups in Birmingham, Bromsgrove, Redditch, Solihull, Alcester and Droitwich, are taking part in a sponsored moustache-growing contest to support Orchid, the only charity dedicated to raising funds for testicular, prostrate and penile cancer.

The 32-year-old Worcester Warriors and Wales prop forward, who underwent chemotherapy after he was diagnosed with testicular cancer aged 19, will judge the facial features and select a winner during a Wild West themed finale at Kings Heath Cricket Club on March 5.

Having had the tumour removed, Horsman battled with secondary cancer of his lymph nodes two years later and has been in remission for more than decade.

The cancer has not held back his rugby career which has taken him to Bath, Bridgend, Celtic Warriors and Worcester and seen him win 14 caps for Wales.

“It’s a brilliant and crazy way to not only raise funds but also the profile of male cancers,” he said. “Growing moustaches certainly gets people talking because it’s so visual and that gives you the opportunity to talk more about the cause because male cancers don’t get that much publicity.

“Men are not very good at talking about these things and get embarrassed but having been through it I’m not because I want people to understand and take an interest.

“These cancers are life-threatening but I came through it after being diagnosed in the early stages.

“There is a very high success rate if it’s caught early and without doubt that saved my life.”

Horsman was invited to get involved in the month-long initiative, expected to raise about £3,000 for Orchid, by Brad Parkes, a Warriors season ticket holder and Solihull Round Table member.

from the Birmingham Mail

Lanarks Boxing Night

2009-02-24T23:12:00.001Z

LANARK and District Round Table are hosting their boxing and gents evening fundraiser at Lanark Auction Market on Friday, March 13, at 6.30pm.

This year’s event will be special because they will be hosting the Amateur Boxing Scotland semi-finals.

There will be 10 fiercely-contested bouts across the weights.

Alan Dryburgh, of Amateur Boxing Scotland, is delighted with Lanark and District’s Round Table’s continued support of amateur boxing.

“The round table has been involved in various successful club shows.

“The group’s support of the national championships is greatly appreciated. I expect a great night of boxing and hope that the round table’s charities benefit,” he said.

Every penny of profit is paid into the local round table’s charities account and is distributed to worthwhile groups and charities throughout the year.

Their latest contribution was £1000 to a group of volunteers at Stanmore House School, near Lanark, who aim to take five of the senior pupils on an outward bound course in the Lake District every Summer. This is an amazing undertaking because the five children are all in wheelchairs and have very complex needs, which mean that there are nine adults supporting including nurses, physiotherapists and teachers.

Round Table helps Riding for The Disabled

2009-02-24T23:06:00.001Z

A DESPERATE appeal is being launched to save Nuneaton’s Riding Centre For The Disabled.

Two more horses have now caught the highly-contagious infection which has forced the centre to close its gates.

Manager Debbie Bradshaw said: “We really have a major crisis on our hands. It could be another eight weeks before we can even think about re-opening and I just don’t know what we are going to do in the meantime.”

"We have had to halt all lessons, which means that we are not getting any income at all. It costs us £1,500 a week to run the centre and even though we are closed, we still have to pay staff to look after the horses.

“We received a cheque for £1,500 from Nuneaton Round Table last weekend, which was a great help. We are delivering leaflets around the area, asking for donations and we are appealing to local businesses for assistance to help us get through this very difficult time.

“The bad weather just after Christmas caused a lot of flooding to our outdoor arena. But this infection outbreak is devastating. It could not have come at a worse time. With no money coming in, we are really struggling to stay in business.”

The centre, in Valley Road, Galley Common, was established over 25 years ago and when it is fully operational, caters for 200 disabled youngsters and adults six days a week.

from the Coventry Telegraph

RT Helps Heroes @ Headley Court

2009-02-24T23:03:00.001Z

"A charity dinner was thrown by a businessmen group for the benefit of a military rehabilitation centre.

The Epsom Round Table hosted the event at the Queen’s Stand, on Epsom Racecourse, to raise money through the Help for Heroes campaign for the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court, in Leatherhead.

The dinner had the presence of Dean Richards MBE, Director of Rugby at Harlequins RFC and a former England International and British Lion. Two stars from the Magic Circle will also performed magic throughout the evening. "

from the Surrey Comet

National Council Meeting 6/7 March

2009-02-24T23:00:00.001Z

Following our meeting of the 14th Jan there are now a number of worked up proposals for debate at the NCM next weekend. Your National Councillor and Table and Area officers will have the details but these are fairly wide ranging and radical and all members input is essential to ensure the best for our Association.

National Secretary writes (well he can actually)

The Notice and Agenda for the March National Council meeting is now available for download from the website.

Click to Download: Notice and Agenda

Click to Download: Proposals & Resolutions From The Special Meeting

Click to Download: Governance - Immediate Output - Special Meeting

Click to Download: Modernisation - Immediate Output - Special Meeting

Click to Download: Continuity - Immediate Output - Special Meeting

Click to Download: Communication - Immediate Output - Special Meeting

Along with the Notice and Agenda is a briefing document which will explain the outcomes from the January meeting of the National Council and the next steps in the future of Round Table.

The March National Council meeting is open to all Round Table members and is a continuation of the process started on the 24th January. It is important that you take this opportunity to attend this meeting to discuss the future of Round Table. Decisions are being made and we would like you to be involved.

Please take your time to read through these documents as the first part of the day will be dedicated to four workshops specifically designed to thrash out the Resolutions which will be voted upon during the afternoon session. The document links above are an important element of this process and it is important that you take time to download them and read them in detail.

It is also my pleasure to advise you that on the evening of the 7th March is the National President's Ball - this promises to be a fantastic evening of entertainment on a Circus Entertainment theme - Why not make a weekend of it and bring your partner along. Portsmouth is an historic city and as such make as a perfect destination for a weekend break.

Click to download: Presidential Ball Booking Form

Click to Download: Presidential Ball Flyer and Details

Click to visit: Ball Website

It is important that you should book in if you are attending the Council Meeting so that we can ensure that sufficient seating and refreshments are available. Please contact me at secretary@roundtable.org.uk to confirm numbers from your Table or Area.

Click to download: Details of Hotel Accommodation

For those of you who will be arriving on the Friday then there will be a Chinese Buffet organised in a local establishment.

More Donation News

2009-02-24T22:52:00.001Z

Long Eaton 461 has been busy in recent weeks donating monies raised by various events to various different causes.

1st Breaston Scout group received £250 towards replacement of camping equipment. A local under-14 football team, Draycott United, received £500 towards their Uganda project helping the sporting and educational development of village kids.

And last year’s big club event, the Three Peak’s Challenge, resulted in donations of £1800 each to Macmillan Cancer Care and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

And finally, an impromptu whip round and a particularly strict fining session at a business meeting led to a £62 donation to the Royal British Legion.

More details on where the money went to can be found on the Long Eaton Round Table website.

From the Area 14 Blog

More Sport - Round Table Supports the Transplant Games

2009-02-05T18:55:00.001Z

A RUNCORN schoolgirl is due to receive £250 from Frodsham and District Round Table to help her represent the UK at the World Transplant Games 2009 in Australia.

Helsby High School pupil Jade Carr, 15, who achieved an impressive medals haul at the British Transplant Games in Sheffield last year, needs to save £6,000 for the trip.

Jade underwent surgery for a heart transplant 11 years ago.

Martin Sadler, vice-chairman of Frodsham and District Round Table, said: “We are extremely proud to be associated with Jade.

“Her quest to represent her country after a heart transplant is truly amazing.”

“We wish you luck, Jade.”

For more information about sponsoring Jade, visit www.rt940.co.uk or www.justgiving.com/jadesmadovacatz.

Fron the Runcorn & Widnes Weekly News

And Another Beer Festival

2009-02-04T17:54:00.001Z

A WIDE range of local and national ales and some great live music will be on offer at the annual Harrogate and District Round Table Beer Festival later this month.

Proceeds from the festival, which is in its 19th year, will be donated to local charities including Harrogate Contact Centre, Harrogate Homeless Project, Harrogate Young Carers, Martin House Hospice and Follifoot Park Disabled Riders. Last year's event raised £24,000 for local good causes.
The festival is organised and run by volunteers from the Harrogate branch of the Round Table, with help from Harrogate Ladies Circle and other voluntary groups.
Gareth Sawyer, Harrogate and District Round Table chairman, said: "This year we will be offering even more varieties of beer, with some excellent atmosphere and entertainment. Above all, we know that all the hard work will generate some much-needed income for local charities."
He added: "The event's success is largely due to the valuable support of local businesses who have the opportunity for publicity by sponsoring a barrel of beer. We would be delighted to hear from companies who are interested in becoming involved."
The 2009 festival takes place from 6pm to 11pm, Thursday to Saturday, February 26 to 28.

From The Ripon Gazette

Shopmobility Scooters - Round Table Support

2009-02-04T17:47:00.001Z

A CHARITY which helps people with disabilities to get around the shops celebrated receiving two new scooters - thanks to a 14 hour bowling fund-raising extravaganza by High Wycombe Round Table.

Shopmobility loan out manual and powered wheelchairs to High Wycombe town centre visitors with mobility problems.

Members of the Round Table arranged the unusual cash raiser, knocking down pins for over half a day at Eden’s AMF Bowling, in October 2008.

The marathon was officially opened by the Bucks Free Press editor Steve Cohen, who bowled the first ball.

They raised £1,800 which proved enough to buy two scooters.

David Griffin, the Shopmobility manager, said: “We endeavour to give people back some of the freedom and independence they have lost, it maybe a temporary problem like breaking a leg or a permanent disability.

“You don't realise how important it is to get out and see other people until you're housebound yourself. We give them a chance to do this when by going out to lunch or going to the shops.

“We very much welcome the Round Table's support because it's a free service and we are dependent on grants and fundraising.”

He added: “ We are very appreciative of their help. This will mean we are able to maintain a reliable fleet.”

from the Bucks Free Press

But... what's really interesting about this is that my own table ALSO supports this in our area and we know that others do too, so why aren't we forging a link with a scooter supplier and getting a discounted rate for buying multiple scooters over the year? they look great all badged up.

100lb Skate - A Fishy Round Table tale... (and the best membership article I've seen for ages...)

2009-02-01T21:55:00.001Z

When a 100lb skate arrived at Lye railway station it was a case of the fish that arrived too early rather than the one that got away.

It was 1958 and a ‘curious sea’ exhibition was being organised by the Stourbridge Round Table in aid of charity. The fish was mistakenly sent from Fleetwood several days ahead of the launch. It was sliced up and sold at the local fishmongers that day without featuring in the exhibition.

These days the male-only movement is more commonly associated with its annual sleigh rides but the purpose is still the same – to raise money for local causes and at the same time for members to have fun.

This year Stourbridge Round Table celebrates its 80th anniversary. The movement is one that many people have never heard of... click here for the rest

A Welcome in The Valleys - Hi Tiddle

2009-02-01T21:45:00.002Z

Yes, its Area 45s Hi Tiddle time again, ever fancied a leisurely fund raising stroll to the top of a 2000ft hill - the Great Rhos. Then this one is for you. Website here

Programme -

Friday 3rd April

Tablers make their own way to Metropole Hotel

Saturday 4th April

Breakfast until 08:30

08:30 first coach leaves, 09:00 last coach leaves

High Tiddle Great Rhos walk (lunch at pub provided)

19:30 Gala Dinner at the Metropole Hotel

Sunday 5th April

Breakfast provided

Tablers make their own way home

Beeston & District (573) Round Table's OAP Dinner

2009-02-01T20:56:00.000Z

After delivering over 70 Christmas hampers to various needy elder people within Beeston’s catchment area before Christmas, Beeston & District Round Table went into overdrive to give 80 pensioners a Christmas dinner which some of them didn’t get on December 25th.

The venue for this year Christmas meal was the Christ Church Hall, Chilwell High Road, Beeston, and it all took place on Saturday 17th January.

The guest were collected by Table members scrubbed up in their dinner jackets, and were treated to a slap up 3 course traditional Christmas dinner with wine followed by coffee and entertainment before being returned home.

The entertainment was provided by Terry Day with his sing alongs and Roger Dainty (ex table member and current 41er) on the bingo machine.

The event involved the help and organisation of so many of the Beeston Round Tables’ members so was a true team effort.

Member Mike Richardson says “Many thanks to all the family, friends and ex-Tablers who turned out to help on the day (without you, the size of event just wouldn’t of happened). I would like to pass on my personal thanks to all the tablers who turned up on the day and helped either front of house or in Hygenix’s kitchen.

from the Area 14 Blog

All aboard the good ship RT CTM

2009-01-31T12:58:00.002Z

180 european round tablers settling down for an afternoon of lager, wine and a banner exchange on the Thames

Saffron Walden Round Table Raise £65,000 at their Carnival

2009-01-30T14:59:00.002Z

PROCEEDS from the 2008 Saffron Walden Carnival have been issued to the first batch of successful applicants.
The final amount raised by the Saffron Walden Round Table from the event in July last year was a staggering £65,000, smashing all previous records.
And a number charities and good causes will have received a donation or a pledge of support from the organisation.
Round Table chairman, Nick Head, said: "It was always our goal to donate £50,000 to 50 different charities this year as we celebrate our 50th anniversary. I am immensely proud we have achieved this tremendous target.
"Donations ranged between a small request for equipment to larger pledges and grants to assist with major projects, sporting equipment, repairs and reparations to club houses, halls - all servicing Saffron Walden and its community."
Carnival chairman Eamon McCourt said: "In the current economic climate we are very aware that many of our local businesses and charitable organisations are feeling the pinch. This has made those good causes reliant on charitable donations desperately short of vital financial support.
"Many of these charities are manned by community-spirited people who often give up their time willingly, and we are delighted to be able to at least offer some funds to support their great work for our community."
All of the charities that entered a float in the carnival procession have also received a grant, while the committee is also considering a few of the later applications. Funds from the carnival also provided Christmas parcels to over 100 of the town's pensioners.
Mr McCourt added: "Round Table is eternally grateful for the support of Saffron Walden, and are pleased that such a happy event has an equally happy ending.

From Saffron Walden Reporter

More Round Table Support for Sport - Rugby

2009-01-30T14:27:00.002Z

Barnstaple Rugby Club have recently secured sponsorship from Barnstaple Round Table according to This Is North Devon.

Haverhill Round Table

2009-01-26T18:14:00.002Z

HAVERHILL Round Table raised more than £3,000 for Haverhill people in need over Christmas.

The Round Table's Christmas sleigh was out in force in the town during evenings and on the High Street on Saturday's. Sadie Miller and her friends at Westbourne Court donated £250 from their raffle winnings this year towards the Round Table's final total of £3,313.19.

from Haverhill Echo

Haverhill Round Table - (Website out of date!!!)

RTBI Special Meeting - Review & Feedback

2009-01-26T18:10:00.003Z

So, Saturday it was. Did we achieve what we set out to achieve - almost but not quite. the plan was to discuss in the morning, draw up proposals over lunch and then discuss and vote in the afternoon. It didn't quite pan out that way but we did get a head of steam (in my opinion) for change in the Association to try and stabilise and grow. And this is not just tampering at the edges, this is wholesale root and branch review prune and regroup stuff.

Not everyone got it though, quite frankly if you wish to attend a meeting like this to debate change and announce that nothing will change and the Association will be dead in five years then I am afraid you're in the wrong association and should consider leaving the one I am a member of, wish to change and wish to see continue to adopt, adapt and improve. That is not to say those that did not give us positive feedback, this is those who entered the room with negative thinking and left it with that thought unchanged. Negative feedback is good - at the very least we have stimulated debate and all feedback is essential to make sure we get it right - after all if we don't make mistakes then the problem isn't hard enough.

In all seriousness whilst this issues discussed had been debated by your exec at length we went into the meeting with open minds and no hidden or unwritten agenda except to engage with our members and facilitate them into changing our Association. We did that, it worked, and we now have a huge amount of work to do in taking those recommendations and making them work for us.
The outcomes? Well some predictable and some not so, from my perspective I though there was acknowledgement that National Council and Governance needs an overhaul. Wildly varying views from getting rid of council and trusting exec to get on with it to suggesting that National Council has no power but should be kept anyway. It was generally agreed that the web site needs attention, that we need to look at local level at how we use gongs and jewels, review our dress codes and make our events more relevant - we need to look inwards at our own tables and see if we're intimidating to new members.
There was discussion as to whether we needed a CEO and a straw poll was in favour about 60:40 in favour but to be fair it is not fully worked through and I can tell you that even the exec are divided on this one. There was discussion over branding and I think an agreement that we need to present in a unified manner at national and local levels. There was some limited discussion about getting rid of honoraries and there was a general view that our next patron should be of tabling age and we should ensure that our patron changes to suit our demographic. There was a suggestion that RT Ambassadors could be appointed (similar to Richard Hammond with the Scout Association)

We've had some great feedback good and bad - here are some quotes. Please keep it coming it really matters :

A very useful day. Although there appear to be a few people with their head in the sand, or just not able to understand/grasp the issues, overall I came away more encouraged about the future than when I arrived. the contribution and views of some of the younger guys was particularly impressive.
The debates over Brand, message, logos, website, etc towards the end was an endorsement as to why we should elect people who know what they are doing to "run" the organisation, and let the majority just enjoy the organisation - GS Harrogate

It is a very courageous move to try to move things along in our organisation, and I salute you for that.

I hope that you do not feel too disappointed by the early afternoon feedback from members including me, but I also feel that it is a big man who can demonstrate flexibility and listening skills, which you certainly did.

Not surprisingly, as an Area 14er, I am happy that the Area structure for us is allowed to continue, but I hope that you manage to get through the membership some of the other points that you propose, which you may remember I tried to support on the day. - PM Area 14

I'd just like to say that this was the first Nationally organised event that I believe was actually worth attending (NSW aside) so thank you for organising it.
I wanted to make a few comments whilst they were fresh in my mind;
Some thing that came out of yesterday was that it was felt that JLM/Development day should be scrapped and have regional training days. I think the regional training days are a good idea but JLM is a great get together to start the Table year, from an Area perspective but mostly the socialising on the Friday night with the actual day being something to be endured. Perhaps we could have a good Tabling Friday night, with the Saturday being a rerun of yesterday. I think the reason so many people attended yesterday was that we all know there is a real problem and it was perceived that yesterday would actually achieve something. Without meaning to sound crass, if you give us something worth turning up to, we'll turn up; however, linking it to National Conference (which is not the cheapest event in the world) would put people off. - NM - Area 4

I thought I should follow up yesterday’s meeting with an e-mail to offer thanks for the organising of it and the chance it gave to members of RTBI to have their say.
I know that we all have such chances at National Council Meetings and the AGM, but this was different and it encouraged further debate.
I enjoyed the chance to discuss issues with a wide range of Tablers, many of whom I had not met before. There were lots of interesting ideas, although some did seem to want to keep repeating the same things about how wonderful they / their Table were and how we should cut away the deadwood that are dragging the organisation down. Frustratingly, at least one of these individuals appeared to be well past the 45 ‘retirement’ age – although he may have just looked older than he was.
I had hoped that we may have reached the point of making more actual decisions, but do think that the structure was new and that the ‘round table’ discussions were good. - NB - Andover

Congratulations on Saturday, it was one of the best national meetings I’ve been to in many years . I’m glad the Area 14 Vice suggested a re-run of it because if not I was going to suggest it . For me giving the actual members and especially the younger tablers the chance to direct major policy is exactly the way to go . - MN

So what happens now? Well National Exec have undertaken to issue publish the outcomes within the next 2 weeks, these should go on the website and if you can't find them then email me and I'll send them to you. Finally lots of this will cost money, the question of capitation was floated, at the moment the level of capitation keeps the Association afloat only and leaves little to enable us to do things of benefit to members. My question to you is this - should the cost of membership to the premier men's club be this cheap? An increase to say £100 per year would free significant funds to enable investment in the future - that's an increase of 80p a week to access the skills, trust, professions and fellowship of you fellow members. Go on, give up the Daily Telegraph one day of the week...

Steve

PS loads more to come

Help Welling Round Tables Local Park... just one click

2009-01-22T22:43:00.003Z

Our park needs you...

Ten London parks are about to benefit from a major makeover and one of them could be a park near you.

The Mayor of London is giving ten grants of up to £400,000 to London's most needy parks to make them cleaner, safer, greener, and nicer places to visit. Londoners are now invited to vote for which parks win an award.

Help a London Park - Parish Wood Park

The 20th Bent n Bongs Beer Festival

2009-01-22T19:23:00.001Z

The 20th consecutive Bent and Bongs Beer Festival looks set to raise another cellar full of cash for charity, credit crunch or not.

For the uninitiated, Bent stands for Chowbent, the colloquialism for Atherton. While Bong is a Lanky version of the former bog on which Tyldesley was one built!
It will be held, as ever, in the atmospheric 'L' shaped rooms of the Formby Hall over the weekend of January 29 and 31.

Organisers Atherton and Tyldesley Round Table in association with real ale guardians CAMRA say that last year the thousands of visitors - with many locked out during house full sessions - supped their way through 10,150 pints of real ale, 3,275 pints of lager, 1,900 bottles of lager and 1,640 pints of Cider, raising a record breaking £20,000-plus for good causes.

This brings the total, since the first barrels were tapped in 1989, of a staggering more than £272,580 for charity.
Main beneficiaries for this year are Derian House Children's Hospice and The Parkinsons' Disease Society, although other local charities and worthy causes will also be supported. And Festival chairman, Paul Hodson of Hindley Green, said: "Its so popular these days that half the time we end up turing people away, so if say 100 or so less people don't come this year because of the downturn, we just aren't going to notice it.''

The theme for this year's event is 'All Our Yesterbeers', with a selection of beers / breweries that were represented at the very first Bent and Bongs Beer Bash - when Dustin Hoffman cleaned up in Oscars with movie 'Rain Man' and the Exxon Valdiz spilled her oily guts into the ocean - available to sample.

More than 80 real ales are currently settling ready for sale, including 20 winter ales along with a dozen different ciders and a large selection of draught plus bottled beers, along with the usual selection of festival grub.

Bromsgrove Round Table - £6,233

2009-01-19T18:21:00.002Z

GENEROUS householders in Bromsgrove temporarily forgot the credit crunch and other money worries when they dug deeply into their pockets to help a charity raise a record sum.

The 15 members of Bromsgrove Round Table, who toured the Bromsgrove district with their popular musical Santa’s sleigh before Christmas, raised a record £6,233.

Delighted Tablers chairman Craig Rooke said: “Despite the tough financial situation we had great support and warm welcomes from people in the areas we visited.”

Now, with the sleigh stored away until next December, Craig and his pals want suggestions and help in deciding where the cash can be best spent. These may be made by charities or individuals.

from the Bromsgrove Advertiser

More 24th January - Council + Apathy = Fragmentation

2009-01-19T08:07:00.002Z

Here's an article from the Winter 1975 edition of Table News & Views, seems like man of the same moans then are being repeated now except that in 1975 Round Table was at the very top of its' game with Tables being formed regularly and over 30,000 tablers. Trouble is there are quite a number (and have been a very high number) who though the seventies were lasting for ever. The key bits here for me is the bit about National Councillors not consulting and the bit about reducing communications from national. I also think there is some resonance in the observation regarding the membership becoming too powerful and leadership ineffective... wh8ilst IO don't think the membership has become too powerful in the traditional sense, the inability of the leadership committee (National Council) to lead because of the absence of 60% of National Councillors effectively achieves the same result. If they thought table had fragmented then, well look at it now?

See you on the 24th. Steve

More Sport - Here's Skateboarding

2009-01-15T17:03:00.003Z

EIGHT years ago, a group of youngsters and skate enthusiasts got together to raise money for a wheeled sports facility to be built in Montrose.

Now, with many of the original party now aged 18 or older, that dream could become a reality after the £27,500 raised by the group was handed over to Angus Council, marking one of the final stages of the £102,000 project.
The group also successfully secured a £24,000 award from the Lottery and £25,000 from Montrose Common Good Fund to pay for the project.
The final £1,000 was handed to the committee by Montrose and District Round Table chairman Andy Boyd, making good on a pledge the group made at the early stages of the project...
Liz Addison, secretary and founding member of the skate park committee, said: "We were very grateful to the Round Table for their support all those years ago and with them supporting so many deserving causes within Montrose we very much appreciate this cheque from Andy; thanks!
"The MSC would also like to sincerely thank all of our supporters who have made this project a success."

from Montrose Review

Round Table in the Community -

2009-01-15T16:57:00.001Z

YOUNG cricketers from Braunton will be starting the coming season in style thanks to a helping hand from Barnstaple Round Table.

Interest in the game has been growing at Braunton School and Community

College.

The Round Table has stepped it to help with the provision of two new sets of cricket white tops.

PE teacher Jamie Frockleton said: "The PE department and pupils would like to say a big thank you to Barnstaple Round Table for sponsoring us.

More eBay watch - RTBI - The Search for Fellowship

2009-01-15T12:34:00.001Z

Here it is, the second history of round table that brings us up to 1977, a good read that many may already have as a PDF but there is nothing like reading it as a book.

"ROUND TABLE" The Search for Fellowship 1927 - 1977.

By Hugh Barty-King

Published by Heinemann., London 1st edition 1977.

Hardback with dust jacket.

Black & white photographs.

Size 5 1/2" x 8 1/2". 298 pages including index.

Dust jacket worn top & bottom of spine and at tips. Very good condition.

Book in fine condition.

The story of the Round Table.

Bid For It Here (and no, it's not me selling it)

eBay watch - Round Table Phone Card

2009-01-15T12:28:00.001Z

Haven't done a eBay watch posting for a while but here's an odd bit of RTBI memorabilia - The Round Table Conference phone card... there's an idea for Eastbourne 2009. Bid Here and this could be yours for just 99p

How a Round Table Closing Affects a Community

2009-01-14T09:12:00.002Z

A closing Table isn't just about the Tablers and the loss of a social evening out or one less beer and curry a month, it does affect the community...

Try this from the Weston & Somerset Mercury...

"ORGANISERS of a popular senior citizens event are appealing to members of the public for help.
The Portishead Annual Senior Citizens Dinner takes place at the town's Somerset Hall on February 7, but it will only be successful if enough drivers can be found to chauffeur the older residents to and from the event.

Senior citizens in Portishead were extremely upset last year when the future of the social evening came under threat.

Organisers disclosed it had become more and more onerous to raise the necessary funds to carry out the event and they could no longer run it.

The annual dinner was originally started by Gordano Valley Round Table 35 years ago but the group folded six years ago and since then the event has been run by a small group of volunteers.
The event, which is one of the highlights on the older residents' social calendar, has been rescued by the police."

Shinty?

2009-01-12T16:18:00.001Z

AIRDRIE & District Round Table were delighted to donate strips to Camanachd Chearcall Lannraig A’Tuathare (North Lanarkshire Shinty Circle), a newly formed shinty team based at Townhead Community Centre, Coatbridge.

The club is aimed at children aged five to 14-years-old who are interested in taking part in a unique game, which is rapidly spreading across the central belt.

At the moment, the four coaches involved are David Fairley, Matthew Fagan, Kate Fairley and Keith Hammond. Also many parents, who are very keen and supportive of the club, help out at every turn.

Iain Jamieson, Chairman of Airdrie & District Round Table, said: “This is a growing sport within our area and we welcome initiatives like this to coach and develop young players to play Shinty.”

from Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

Ideas for Community Involvement - 1

2009-01-12T16:09:00.001Z

From the Buxton Advertiser -

CHARITY groups in Buxton are appealing to readers of the Times newspaper to help them provide books for local schools.

The Times and Sunday Times are printing free Books for Schools tokens every day from January 11 to November and Buxton Rotarians, Lions and Buxton Round Table are hoping any readers who aren't already collecting for a school will pass them on.

With four tokens in the Sunday Times, three in the Saturday Times and one each day during the week, one Times reader could generate up to 43 books for a school library from titles for ages three to seven, seven to nine, nine to 11, 11 to 14 and reference books.

Tokens can be given to any member of Buxton Rotary Club, Buxton Lions or Round Table and will then be shared out amongst the Buxton schools who have registered with the Times for the scheme.

Retailers who want to help by putting up a box to collect the tokens can contact. The service clubs will make sure your box is emptied in time for pooling, sharing and schools ordering.

24th January

2009-01-12T11:12:00.000Z

Just on my way back from a National Executive meeting in preparation for our 24th January meeting. To say I am excited is an under statement. We now have over 30 Areas represented and at least 150 tablets coming to influence the Associations future

I can absolutely assure readers that no decisions have already been made and that the views of this meeting WILL make affect the future, I would go as far as to say the propsals that will me developed at that meeting and after (we have none drafted)could be far reaching enough as to transform the Association into a modern service club for young men.

In your National Executive you have a team capable of managing the change the members have been asking for, they will put into practice where possible the ideas and recommendations of the 24th January meeting. I cannot stress enough that if you want to be part of change then you owe it to your past present and future Table membership to be present.

We can do no more than execute what the membership wants. The membership will tell us the direction to take on the 24th. See you there.

Steve

-- Post From My iPhone

Slow Dance

2009-01-06T10:49:00.001Z

Have you ever watched kids On a merry-go-round?
Or listened to the rain Slapping on the ground?
Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?
Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?
You'd better slow down. Don't dance so fast.
Time is short. The music won't last.

Do you run through each day On the fly?
When you ask "How are you?" Do you hear the reply?
When the day is done Do you lie in your bed With the next hundred chores
Running through your head?
You'd better slow down Don't dance so fast.
Time is short. The music won't last.

Ever told your child, We'll do it tomorrow?
And in your haste, Not see his sorrow?
Ever lost touch, Let a good friendship die Cause you never had time
To call and say "Hi"?
You'd better slow down. Don't dance so fast.
Time is short. The music won't last.

When you run so fast to get somewhere You miss half the fun of getting there.
When you worry and hurry through your day, It is like an unopened gift....
Thrown away.
Life is not a race. Do take it slower
Hear the music Before the song is over.

RTBI - Special Meeting - Linked Blog Posts

2009-01-04T09:47:00.001Z

A Vision of RTBI Future 1

A Vision of RTBI Future 2

A Change is Gonna Come

October National Council Meeting

National Structure

Aims & Objects 1

Aims & Objects - Sacred Cows?

RTBI - Special Meeting 24th Jan

2009-01-04T08:40:00.001Z

An extract from Peters latest email -

Firstly I would like to thank you all for your continued interest and support in the Special Meeting on the 24th January . The feedback and contribution received has been amazing. We have been so overwhelmed with the pre-registrations from all over the Association that we have needed to change the venue and increase the capacity. We can now accommodate up to 300 with ease.

If you've not yet had your say or booked in then please do as soon as possible - even though space isn't a problem we still need to provision seating and refreshments for all of the delegates.

The links below contain essential introduction information in regard to the special meeting on the 24th January 2009 . I would especially like to draw your attention to the "Notice and Agenda" and the supporting "Briefing and Discussion Document".

Please take your time to read through these and pass back any comments you might have.

---------------------------------

View: Notice and Agenda for the Special Meeting

View: Financial Projections

View: Briefing and Discussion Document

View: Summary of Feedback To Date

The Special Meeting arrangements are as follows:

Date/Time: 10am - 4pm , Saturday 24th January 2009.
Venue: The Cresta Court Hotel, Althricham

** PLEASE NOTE ** - change of venue!!

E-mail: secretary@roundtable.org.uk to register your Area's delegates by 15th January 2009 latest.

Round Table Car Rally

2009-01-03T23:40:00.002Z

tune in here...

Why can't we do this in the UK?

Euromeeting Sweden

2009-01-03T22:38:00.001Z

Round Table 6 proudly welcomes fellow tablers
to join Euromeeting 2009 in Landskrona, Sweden.
When: 11-14 June 2009 --- MARK THESE DATES NOW
Where: Landskrona, Sweden

Preliminary program
11 june
Arrival and registration
Dinner and get together party
12 june
Whisky tour on Ven isle
Swedish Midsummer Feast (see promotion video below)
Round Table SEX Party
13 june
Sauna for the brave
Round Table 6 Official Euromeeting
Banner Lunch
Gala Dinner
14 june
Farewell brunch

How: Registration will open in February. Details will be posted.
Who: We invite active and past members of Round Table world wide to join this amazing tabling experience together with their spouses, dates, pickup lines or favourite in lieu thereof. A special warm welcome to our number tables 6, 66, 106... etc.

YiT !
Mikael Schvili
RT6 Euromeeting General 2009

Carnevale Internazionale Round Table a Venezia

2009-01-02T09:55:00.001Z

20-22 February 2009

Rough Babelfish type translation...

A magical night at the Carnival of Venice, in the prestigious Palace Pisani Moretta (www.pisanimoretta.com), situated on the GrandCanal, between the rich baroque decoration and precious it frescoes of the 1700 century, to candlelight it's the Great Masked ball of Round Table Italia.

We will have a place with dreamy dresses and mystery to be found behind own masks... complete load of unintelligible translated stuff - probably saying how good it will be etc. etc.

For information it contacts us to the mail/Contact us

carnevale@roundtable.it

PDF Brochure here

HAPPY NEW TABLE YEAR

2009-01-01T10:59:00.001Z

CTM 2009 - London - Official Event Pin

2008-12-22T12:03:00.001Z

Not long to go now before 200 international tablers descend on London for the best attended CTM (Central Tablers Meeting) for many years. The event has been booked full for months but available now is the official Pin Badge from our very own Round Table Sales.

Get Yours Here

Why Round Table Children's Wish Matters

2008-12-22T11:55:00.001Z

Connor’s Wish - A Christmas Story

Here is a thank you message and photos received from a Wish Family on their return from Lapland just a few days ago. Their son Connor aged 4, is suffering from Cystic Fibrosis and had always wished to visit Santa and deliver his Christmas list in person. Connor and his family had a wonderful time but why not read dad’s message which we received just yesterday...

“Hi guys

Just back and here are a few photos of our trip to Lapland.

Just want to say thank you so much again for organising this wonderful wish. Connor enjoyed it so much, I have never seen him so quiet when he met Santa!!

We took him on a reindeer safari which was very relaxing and both boys fell asleep towards the end!

Connor went to school this morning and was so excited to tell all his friends about it. His teacher said that he stood up and told them all about Lapland and answered all the questions from the other children!

Thank you once again, this is something that we will all never forget.“

George

PLEASE REMEMBER US WHEN YOU MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS. WE JUST COULDN’T DO THIS WORK WITHOUT YOUR WONDERFUL SUPPORT.

Kids off the Streets

2008-12-21T15:24:00.001Z

A project by Colombo Taprobane Round Table 3, Sri Lanka. CTRT3 request the support to raise funds for their project KOS. KOS is focused on getting kids off the streets by providing shelter and education to street children. A contribution of 1 euro towards a fashionable blue wrist band will endorse your commitment towards a street kid's hope for a future with a smile.

Surprise...

2008-12-21T15:09:00.001Z

Surprise, I went out collecting this week and actually enjoyed it! not sure why but in previous years it has been one of my least favourite table activities. Something about official begging at peoples doors I think. This year welling Round Table 503 gave support to Bexley Rotary Clubs collection, over 10 nights they raise well over £7,500 which is pretty damn good. And their sleigh looks the dogs with decent reindeer and a very good Santa...

Tommy Saxondale Again

2008-12-16T22:57:00.001Z

Just checked what Steve Coogan would want for a 30 minute routine for Round Table - £25,000!!!

And another night at the O2

2008-12-16T22:56:00.001Z

Means it's Coldplay... not much to report except they were superb, quite possibly one of the best gigs I've been to in the last 10 years or so. Bit of a dicky sound set up again though, the light was stunning making full use of the perimeter ticker hoarding in the O2 and their stunt of performing from within the crowd was unique and very clever - and even better for being just 10 seats from us! (near the back in the left lower tier). If you get the chance GO.

Peace & Goodwill for Santas Sleigh...

2008-12-16T22:35:00.001Z

A charity fundraiser was issued a parking ticket after he left his car unattended to move a Santa sleigh on to a pavement.

Richard Walters, from West Bridgford Round Table in Nottingham, had towed the sleigh to set it up and alleged having gone for only couple of short minutes, reports the Sun.

The 38-year-old, who had found a parking ticket waiting for him on his return, dubbed the incident ridiculous explaining the Round Table members, who took turns to be Santa, gathered at the same spot every year to raise funds for local charities.

He said: We’re a small organisation and this is our 50th year. Every year we work really hard to do this. We take it in turns to be Santa and we raise a few thousand pounds for local charities.

The shopkeepers have all backed me up - it’s just ridiculous. Even if I had been there slightly longer, like five or six minutes, it’s clear what I was doing.

However, Tim Cowen, director of communications for NCP Services that enforces parking in the area, said that they were sure the ticket had been given in accordance with the laws.

He added: The ticket was issued to a Land Rover that was unattended. It was parked on zigzag lines next to a pedestrian crossing. That’s a very dangerous form of illegal parking.

We are very sympathetic to his charitable work and we wish him well with that but we cannot condone dangerous parking in this way.

If he feels he has been treated unfairly we would urge him to appeal. We are absolutely confident that that ticket was issued correctly.

Tommy Saxondale Does Round Table

2008-12-09T20:50:00.001Z

Steve Coogan at the O2 last night actually cracked a joke abut Round Table, I can't remember what it was but it involved Pete Doherty and a Charity Dinner. Have to wait for the DVD to come out I suppose.

Still all publicity and all that, love to know what he really thinks of RTBI though

A Vision of RTBI Future 2

2008-12-09T20:41:00.001Z

Here it is, the second part of my suggestion as to where RTBI future might be - the first part is here

This time, National Executive... So to go with a completely revised National Council structure a slightly less radical overhaul of National Exec, starting with the premise that handing over after one year and starting cold is bad (traditionally posts would have been filled by committee members) you actually change the date of the AGM to October and have a one day meeting when you elect next years officers, they then work in parallel until a changeover meeting in May when traditional Table Conference activities take precedence that way there is a smooth(er) handover.

Then revise National Exec - make the president just that, a figurehead and remove the chairmanship of the exec and National Council, that role is filled by the Vice President leaving the prez free to get on with promoting and visiting. Then you require anyone standing for National Vice President to have sat on National Council and National Exec. Reduce the number of roles on National Exec and pass responsibility onto small National Council committees, probably ending up with an exec that comprises President, Vice President, Treasury, Secretary, Membership, Media & PR and Business Development.

Do that and we are beginning to get a lean management structure and a horizontal membership structure which can react and improve quickly.

DISCLAIMER - I cannot stress enough these are my personal views and DO NOT necessarily represent the opinion of the National Executive of which I am a member. Don't like my views - Then MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!! Come to this meeting

Chaudefontaine RT 88 - 30th Charter

2008-12-05T17:54:00.001Z

Well you were warned that a great party was due to kick off in Chaudefonatine just outside Liege, you could have been there too (sadly RTBI 88 didn't reply to any emails or invitations...). Lots of beer, lots of European tablers, lots (and a mean lots) of food, a Tabler with a mean wine cellar (74 and 01 Petrus as a tipple? It was awful!!), international karting and all this just 200km from Britain.

We stopped in the way to meet up with some Danish tablers in Brussels where we were able to visit and view at first hand the magnificent work of the European Commission. A masterpiece of jobs for the boys (girls) and paper passing, just imagine every document having to be sent to a secretary for every member country - that'll be 27 secretaries then, that's after its been translated - yep another 27... still Round Table gets you places you though were in accessible...

more here -

Aims and Objects - Sacred Cows?

2008-12-05T17:35:00.001Z

Well a month or two back I started an analysis on this blog of aims and objects, you know the thing we stand up and read (recite) at the start of every meeting and don't pay a ;lot of attention to. The ones that were developed in the twenties and thirties in the language of the day and no one knows quite hat the grammar means - "precept and example" - not every day speech and precept is more commonly known as a tax. Seems I'm not the only one looking at these -

Here's Adrian Davis-Johnston on the RTBI discussion board last week -

All,
Have you ever thought about our Aims and Objects and how they could be interpreted in simple, modern-day English? I have been having a think about this, mainly as a set of ideals do we really know what they mean? The sentiment of course is there and is good and proper, but what would we say nowadays?

The main question also is do these set of standards and their archaic language put off prospective members who see us as old hat and not applicable to modern society?

I've had a go at bringing Aims and Objectives up-to-date. I just wonder what others think?
The Aims and Objectives of RTBI shall be:

1) To provide an environment for persons of various occupations to expand their social circle.
2) To provide an opportunity for individuals to undertake service to the community.
3) To encourage the highest standards in business, professional and civic conduct.
4) To recognise the contribution that individuals make to society through their business and personal conduct.
5) To develop relationships with groups and individuals overseas through the messages of peace and goodwill.
6) To take part in activities which promote these objectives.

Cheers,
Adrian

please add your comments to the board or here or come along in January to the special meeting in Manchester (details here). in my view we have reached the point where some sacred cows may have to be slaughtered...

Christmas is nearly here... which means

2008-12-05T17:26:00.001Z

That stalwart of Round Table fund raising Santas sleigh is out again - all over the country tables are dusting off last years false snow pumping up the tyres, grooming the plywood reindeer and heading off to their local streets.

This is something that our local communities look forward to and we have the opportunity of knocking on plenty of doors and interacting directly but do we make the most of this. Is this an event where the public perception of us as bucket rattlers is crystallised? Don't get me wrong I think this is a tradition and event which should not be tampered with too much but can we use this to our advantage, do we discretely note the houses we knock on which have young families or couples and are likely to have men of tabling age - especially some are enthusiastic, do we then follow them up with a thank you note and an introduction to table? Unlikely, in my experience tablers (and I include myself) are more likely to remember the house where the leggy blonde opened the door and lent over in her vest top to make a donation... (potential Circler?).

How much to we raise doing this? I don't know but lets sat 300 tables collect and average £2,000 each that's £quite-a-lot.00 and back to my earlier point lets say we knock on 1000 doors each that'll be 300,000 public interactions on a one to one basis and potentially 30,000 household which fit our demographic?

Comments?

Steve

A magnificent British victory....

2008-11-29T11:53:00.000Z

An unusually happy Lars (Danish national RT editor) after his rear was whooped at Karting by the British delegation (me) in Liege. Chaudefontaine 30th charter is turning into a fine party with big Dutch, german and French parties. Gonna be wild tonight....

-- Post From My iPhone

New at Round Table Sales...

2008-11-19T00:59:00.001Z

Now available at Round Table Sales - a new range of polo shirts, rugby shirts, giftware badges and glassware. please support our National Sales Operation - by doing so you directly help RTBI to keep your capitation down! RTBI receive 5% of the gross value of every order as commission!!

click here

roundtablesales.co.uk

CiN Cheque Presentation - Just the £66,000

2008-11-19T00:38:00.001Z

Here's Neil Buckley VC of Area 16 (Kent) doing the big handover to Terry...

More CiN - who is Lordys mysterious side kick....

2008-11-19T00:28:00.001Z

"Dick Turpin and Black Bess could have fared no better on a chilly night in Clitheroe than Steve Lord and his trusty tuctuc.

Without so much as a "your money or your life!", or even the benefit of a loaded musket, Steve and his mysterious masked companion managed to extract an astonishing £450 for Children in Need from generous Clitheroe folk.

Straddling the mighty tuc tuc – an automated Indian rickshaw which Steve recently piloted from John o'Groats to Land's End for Air Ambulance charities – the Clitheroe Round Table duo toured Clitheroe's pubs and clubs, collecting as they went.

Weighed down by bulging buckets of booty and in bold defiance of a light headwind, they then set out bravely for Blackburn to hand over the charity cash. By the time you read this, they should be nearing the outskirts...

Courtesy of the Clitheroe Advertiser and Times.

A Change is Gonna Come...

2008-11-18T08:13:00.001Z

At the National Council meeting held in October 2008, Eastbourne - it was unanimously resolved that a special meeting of National Councillors, Areas Officers and Tablers should be convened to create a forum and momentum for change in Round Table. In order to achieve our goals we must be able to communicate amongst ourselves, discuss and agree where we are going, but be agile enough to implement change in a timely and cost effective manner.

The arrangements for this meeting are:

Date/Time: 10am - 4pm , Saturday 24th January 2009.

Venue: Britannia Airport Hotel, Manchester.

Pre-registration required to ensure that sufficient seats and lunches are available.

E-mail: secretary@roundtable.org.uk to register your Area's delegates by 24th December 2008.

Key Objectives of the meeting:

To agree the terms and timescales of the change process.
To address the structure and role of the National Council to deliver the change programme.
To address the purpose and role of Areas in supporting Tables and Tablers.
To understand the necessary training and support required to meet our end objectives.
To agree budget to implement the first 6 month phase of the change process.

Who should attend:

This meeting is open to all members of Round Table that want to help shape the future.
It is of vital importance that each Area is represented at the meeting.
Decisions will be made at this meeting by those Areas present.

What happens next:

Feedback from Areas, Tables and Tablers requested on the attached PDF (page 2) by 1st December 2008.
The Notice and Agenda and discussion document to be issued by 10th December 2008.
Feedback collated and circulated to Areas by 19th December 2008.
Areas and Tables to discuss amoungst members prior to the meeting on 24th January 2009.

It is vitally important that we have your feedback and input to this process. Please play a part in the future of our Round Table.

Send your feedback to modernise@roundtable.org.uk.

Yours in Table,

Peter Manley

National President 2008/09
Round Table Great Britain & Ireland

BBC Children in Need London Stations Collection

2008-11-14T10:48:00.000Z

National vice Dave Barker and National Media Ron Shea hard at work on Charing Cross Station this morning

-- Post From My iPhone

More Stuff Too Good Not to Blog

2008-11-12T01:06:00.001Z

"The 28ft structure burned as 15,000 packed into the park for the Oxford Round Table event, with organisers hoping to boost charity coffers by £25,000.

And, for the first time in its 42-year history, a streaker, raced in front of the blazing bonfire, sparking cheers from the crowds. " WTF, who streaks at a firework display - it's dark DOH

FULL STORY HERE

Too Good Not To Blog - Sorry Peter

2008-11-12T00:53:00.001Z

I just found out.... that Peter Manley is sponsored by ....... OK not that Peter Manley but this Peter Manley. Bet he'd make a great tabler....

More Musical Diversions

2008-11-12T00:19:00.001Z

Mr Cool & One of My Heroes Lil Miss Nice Too Nice Very Funny Bloke

I am off on one of my regular gigathons at the moment which as usual race from one end of the musical spectrum to the other without pausing for breath so last week was the Brighton Centre for Lee Evans followed by the K2 at Crawley for the opening night of Paul Wellers tour and tonight Brighton Centre (again) for Katie Melua with Leonard Cohen at the O2 on Thursday and The Stylistics the week after next, see, nothing if not eclectic.

Star gig so far Paul Weller - a man whose tours I haven't missed since 1981 either in the jam, style council, the Paul Weller movement (wacky gig - 200 people at a nightclub in Dartford in 1989 ish) and then of course on his own account. A fairly decent set list referencing a full career including storming Eton Rifles and Butterfly Collector and a not bad Shout it To The Top. A new and fairly tight band were an excellent foil with Steve Craddock the only hangover from the past, shame to see Steve White has hung up his Weller sticks bit the new boy wasn't bad. And as for the traditional meeting of the old mods and skins - a thoroughly good turnout of 40 year olds in Loafers, Baracuta Harringtons, Freds and tonics - I even saw a pair of Monkey boots!! The K2 though? A brand new sports centre and a complete barn - nice and close to the motorway with decent parking.

Tonight's Katie Melua gig was as always "nice", "pleasant", "delightful", "congenial", "agreeable" a perfect couples night out, she even finished at 10 so those of us with homes to go to could be tucked up before midnight.....

BBC Children in Need - London Railway Station Collections -

2008-11-11T08:08:00.004Z

Can you help fellow Tablers for an hour or two before work (or preferably all day) in a very rewarding, fun day of fundraising this Friday - 14th November -for a very good cause - BBC Children in Need?

It's fun because you can dress up as Pudsey Bear and you get a fantastic response from the general public. In the rush hour, each person can raise
100s of £s an hour, and later in the day, as well as raising a significant amount of money, you can interact with young kids and young attractive women
too!

Will Stevens (area 18) aims to be at the Charing Cross Thistle Hotel (next door to the station - on the right as you leave the station) by 7.00 a.m. (but even if he's late, or have already left, there will be Tablers from Kent there). If you can, please arrive at the Thistle Hotel to collect your outfit, tabard, sign & buckets. (If you arrive early enough and are prepared to stay for a couple of hours, you can dress as Pudsey)

Collections will then be done at all the London mainline railway terminals until around 10.00 a.m. (or it's time to leave for work).

This year, some of us will also be heading for Lloyd's of London and 'The Gherkin'. In particular, Lloyd's and Leadenhall Market should be busy
between 11.30am and 3.00pm. However, there will be time for a long lunch and a few beers with a large number of Tablers before heading back to the London mainline railway terminals to collect between 4.00p.m. and 6.00 p.m.

You must return back to the Charing Cross Thistle Hotel before 7.00 p.m. for the organisers to head off to the BBC studios with all the money. The BBC's
counting machines are used and about 6 of us (including National V.P., Dave Barker, and National Media & P.R.O., Ron Shea) will be in the audience in
the live evening show, hopefully presently a cheque for £50,000 + to Terry Wogan.

Most of the rest of us will, however, be going for a well earned beer and curry. Please let me know if you can make it, including times of your availability (and preferred station if you will be going into work).

If you can't make it but are travelling through a mainline railway station terminal, please look out for Pudsey, stop and say hello, and put some money
in the bucket!

Many thanks.

Will Stevens

Help RT Zimbabwe... buy a badge

2008-11-06T17:18:00.001Z

Marcus Grover, RTBI IRO attended the RT Central Africa AGM in Botswana this year and reports -

"During the AGM reports of the state of Tabling in Zimbabwe hit home to me. I wanted to help and spoke to Asa Cowell, RT. Central Africa President as to what can be done to keep one of the oldest Associations in RT going through, what is hopefully, a transition period.

Round Table Central Africa comprises of three countries, Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Whilst Botswana and Malawi enjoy the benefits of stable economies and fairly consistent exchange rates, our brothers in Zimbabwe quite simply do not. Inflation sits above 1000%. In 2007, three zeros were taken off the currency and then in 2008 ten zeros were removed from the valuation, so in real terms:

1 March 07    Zim$ 22,811,000 : US$1

1 September 08    Zim$ 3,000,000,000,000,000 : US$1

1 October 08    Zim$ 2,000,000, 000,000,000,000 : US$1

So One Zim dollar is worth an amazing USD 0.0000000000000000005

Tablers with respectable careers simply cannot afford the annual capitation fees in one payment. They are keen so they pay over multiple instalments, this results in the deposits being worth a real value of USD1-2 by the time the Tabler has completed the payments. The net effect of this is the Association of 175 members has lost in the region of USD13,000 in real terms over the past 3 years.

In an effort to raise funds for Area Zimbabwe and for the Association the Zimbabwe Pin Badge came about. The funds raised from this pin design will be utlised in the following areas:

Current year funding of Zimbabwean Tablers not able to pay their capitation fees.
Funding to enable The RTCA. Executive to visit Area Zimbabwe.
AGM fees will be paid for new members.
RT. Service Projects in Zimbabwe.
A contingency fund will be held in a foreign currency account until a Area Zimbabwe is more stable.

Please support this initiative as never has it been more true that "charity begins at home". Buy a badge from RTBI Sales.

November 9th - An important day for RT SA

2008-11-06T17:10:00.001Z

"NOVEMBER 5, 1958: (The Chiel) Dr David Smith was a Round Tabler in Bath, England, before he joined the Royal Air Force at the outbreak of war in 1939. After the war he settled in East London and founded the Round Table movement in this country. The first Round Table Club was East London, inaugurated on November 9, 1948, two years after David Smith arrived in the city. Today, the Association of Round Tables of Southern Africa comprises of 210 clubs"

Well that's according to the website Daily Dispatch

A Vision of RTBI Future 1

2008-11-04T18:53:00.001Z

The first of a series of occasional postings as to where we might find round table over the next year or two -

Just imagine a completely changed National set-up, ask why we need 52 national councillors to represent 6000 or so tablers. Why not retain the Area structure for inter table competition, fun and friendship and get rid of National Councillors altogether?

Then have say 20 biannually elected councillors - say 2 from Wales, 2 from Scotland, 2 from Ireland and 4 from England and then 10 standing from wherever. We'll get a mix of age and experience and those who stand will want to do the job rather than find themselves hastily elected when they went for a piss at their AGM.

Then make those councillors stand for 2 years and only 2 years at a time with no consecutive terms of office. In the first year half would stand for 12 months so you after the first year you will get a change of 50% of councillors every 12 months. This give us consistency and reliability. Communication would need to be improved to individual tablers and not sent via a creaking area and table structure, how about we start to think of Round Table more in terms of a group of 6000 members than 650 tables.

To Come - National Executive, Table and Area structure

Steve

Round Table Fireworks - Websites - Observations

2008-11-01T00:04:00.001Z

A Google search for Round Table Fireworks brings up about 41,000 relevant hits. But lots and lots of these website do us no favour at all. Try this search every web hit is a local informational site and there are no, yes NO links to the local organising Round Table or to the main RTBI site.

Try the Wilmslow fireworks site (sorry to be specific lads). Yep definitely an RT display, now find the link to Wilmslow Round Table, go on keep looking, and looking, how about the Round Table link - no, no contact details there, or lets try links, nope nothing there... ah contacts success, so you can parse the email address and get to wilmslowroundtable.co.uk where... the programme is for 2006-7 as are the officers.

We do ourselves no favours, bundles of the sites use the old branding, bundles of sites have no links and out of date contacts. You may think I'm being pedantic and arsey, perhaps I am, but this matters. Corporate consistency is important but even more important is making our web sites are up to date and are easily linked to from the front page. Why make life difficult?

As an aside does anyone think that a gathering of fireworks mind may be good thing? Some sort of seminar where our best practice, experience, local authority irritations, risk assessments, etc etc can be shared and built upon... Let us know

Steve

Places Round Table should be seen 2

2008-10-31T22:31:00.001Z

No 2 in an occasional series no 1 was here

Just spent a day with my boys at Top Gear Live, that'll be a motor show full of bloke in their mid 30s to 50s with their kids gawping at cars. So that's thousands of dads in their mid thirties.... in relaxed I'll stop and talk to these blokes whilst my kids gaze at an Evo XI or another blingmobile mode.... just a thought?

National Executive 2008-9

2008-10-31T22:26:00.001Z

Your National Executive 2008-9 pictured here at the National Exec Meeting in Portsmouth, I know I'm a member but I can assure you that your Association is currently in extremely good hands.

Children in Need 2008

2008-10-31T22:23:00.001Z

is just two weeks away.

Love it or loathe it BBC Children in Need has been a great beneficiary of Round Table activity - remember the Toddle - and a great source of PR for our Association. I'm not sure what you may be doing but in the South East Area 16 (Kent) co ordinate a bucket collection at most of the central London Rail Stations. Its a good high profile event, if you're travelling to London please make a donation, if you are a Tabler working in London please get in touch and see if you can put an hour of bucket holding in place.

Get your event listed here if you're doing something different

More Great European Round Table Nights Coming Up -

2008-10-28T21:59:00.001Z

See You There?

RT-88 Chaudfontaine celebrate its

30 years on 29th november 2008 with a

Saturday Night Fever

French Round Table Ski Weekend...

2008-10-28T21:49:00.001Z

La plus belle des saisons approche, la neige, le soleil, les sapins et surtout les pistes !

Ainsi à la 13ème nous avons eu l’idée d’organiser un superbe week-end de trois jours ouvert à tous.
Après sondage il s’avère que beaucoup de tables organisent déjà un pèlerinage tablesque en altitude, avec toutes les contraintes d’organisation que cela comporte. Fort de cela nous avons créé un package tout en un où vous n’aurez qu’à vous reposer sur l’organisation.

Sachez que vous serez totalement pris en charge par des hôtesses qui seront vos guides tout au long de ces trois jours. Quelques détails, histoire de vous mettre l’eau à la bouche :

Forfaits, repas, activités, (Transport au départ de Paris au tarif de 55€), vous dormirez en hôtel 4* et descendrez les pistes la nuit au flambeau après un bon repas juste pour fêter le concours de slalom de l’après midi…

Le tout pour 373€. Bref que du plaisir…

Une participation de cinq euros sera reversée au VDE et remis en station à un représentant du bureau des voiles au moyen d’un chèque. Le tout bien sur appuyé par les médias. Quelques dizaines de tableurs investissant la station de Tignes méritent bien un JT de 20h non ?

Un site pour t’inscrire, un seul : http://www.trf-ski.com

La brochure est en ligne.

Gilles Paillon
Président de la 13ème.

Or the presentation in English is HERE

Ever Wondered

2008-10-24T00:15:00.001+01:00

How many tables run a fireworks display. Well, I'm bored and I have come over all anorak so I just analysed Google and got to 110 tables presenting fireworks this year, that is 1 in 6 of RTBI. Way to go!

If we grow that and assume that each display gets 5000 punters when averaged out that is over 1/2 a million people benefiting from a Table display. Which means if 20% of the UK population goes to a professionally run fireworks display that nearly 5% of the population is made safer by Round Table!

OK. now lets get carried away, of the 550,000 punters, probably, just probably, 15% are males of tabling age. mmmm, me thinks, that'll be 82,500 people then. Now apply a standard average that 70% of these people will not be interested EVEN IF you wave free beer at them and that leaves 24750, now assume that 70% of these haven't got time, can't be bothered , don't want to listen etc etc and that leaves about 7500 possible members who could be interested in Round Table EXCEPT we're too busy running our fireworks display to talk to them.....

Then take 70% of these who are indifferent and get down to the 30% who are interested in social responsibility and community involvement and that's 2250. Suddenly Peters plus 1 doesn't look so hard, if we worked on these people we would grow our association by a third.....

Sparkler anyone?

Shameless Promotion Time

2008-10-23T23:56:00.001+01:00

Yes, Welling Round Table 503s world famous Danson Park display is back. This is the display that brought the largest legal peacetime explosion in London, music, funfairs, laughter and Tabling fellowship.

Book tickets HERE

Danson Park Fireworks presented by Welling Round Table Saturday 8th November - be there or have a damp squib of an evening.

Real Tabling

2008-10-23T23:49:00.001+01:00

A quick link to Saffron Walden Round Table, ever wondered what tablers get up to ... try their 8 day weekend carnival. Just check every, yes every picture on their home page and find someone not smiling!

This Weekends Council Meeting & Preview

2008-10-20T23:32:00.004+01:00

Was interesting. David Weaver (Nat Membership) completely stole the meeting with his presentations about the Scouts and their recovery and where we are headed and best of all the very few councillors who were there backed him and the exec the whole way. 19 Councillors out of 52, 400 tables not represented out of 670. That is disgraceful and I am not being sarcastic - it is!

At last the vision for change has clicked, we might not be saved but we are not doomed!. Are you reading this? then you are interested, if Table matters ask where your National Councillor was. Look, it's not hard to do and RTBI even pays your travelling costs (mileage, trains, planes) and an accommodation allowance. Your National Councillor (or you, yes you if you were substitute councillor) could have had a great weekend of table fellowship including accommodation and travel for £15

The proposal to disband an Area was withdrawn on the back of the debate, what a pity that the Area Chairman, Vice Chairman, National Councillor, IPP (in fact any member of their area exec - not hard there's only 2 of them), nor any tabler nor table chairman from that Area could be arsed to attend, or for that matter communicate with the National Exec other than an email exchange with the National Chairman (sic - you would think they would know we had a National President) just a in the final days before the Council meeting. Of course they love their area to bits and couldn't bear to see it disbanded so came along to protect it and argue their case (yeh right!!) who is kidding who here? My personal view was that with such passion and commitment they....

....BUT the debate did change my mind, I did think that areas were irrelevant. I now believe as far as governance and communication is concerned they are - and I really believe that - but as far as fellowship and belonging are concerned they are possibly more relevant now than they have ever been. And therefore, notwithstanding the paragraph above I now believe that an area failing in governance and communication cannot be considered as failing if it delivers fellowship . We did the right thing in withdrawing the motion.

It is quite clear that a complete rethink of governance and communication is now needed. What and how will need a special meeting open to all tablers but this MUST CHANGE at next AGM. If you like I saw, I listened, I commented and then I adopted and I adapted and I hope I improved.

Oi, Area 41 don't let me down - on Saturday morning I would have voted to closed or disband you as an Area - I am disappointed you did not join the debate - but by the afternoon I got the importance. Internal area structures may well change but the Areas themselves shouldn't - unless THEY or their tables or tablers want to. But Areas cannot have responsibility for governance and then abdicate that responsibility. That will eat our Association away from within and so a new governance structure is now needed.

We must accept tradition and abandon sentimentalism. Mark (Louis M) would be turning in his grave right now, if ever was the time to Adopt Adapt and Improve it is now.

This is not a national exec problem, or a council problem or an area problem or a table problem this is your problem as a tabler. Please watch this space and the national website and prepare to make your voice heard for change!!!! Ignore this at your peril and remember the phrase wither on the vine. We won't. We didn't. You Might! There are some very serious people working on some serious plans right now, please do give them time and respect and, like me, be prepared to change your mind.

As for the weekend - it was great. Eastbourne 2009 have nailed great venues (FOR FREE providing we book their hotels), great bands and a great attitude. Book NOW.

Musical Diversions

2008-10-20T22:56:00.001+01:00

Those who know me know me as a music nut, thousands of CDs and gigs and gigs of Itunes tracks (in fact so many that most add on programmes like Philips and Sony media streamers fall over because the database is too big! But there are a very few bands who top my lists, previous posts will identify the clash as "up there" but, if I had my time again it would be the Small Faces. Here's an interesting angle - a stage play based around Oggies (as we fans know it). Like the Small faces? looks unmissable to me!