January, 2022
Issue 10
Inkundla 073 860 3698
Friday, 14 January 2022
pro@roundtable.co.za
The Year of A.R.T.S.A Wayne Stevenson
It all seems so surreal, from lockdown to government regulations and not knowing if we will ever see each other again for an ARTSA, but hopefully after two years, we all should cross our fingers and hope for the best that we might get the chance to pull this off seeing that we are now down to level 1 and will be able to host this for you. We are very excited to inform you that everything with the venue is now confirmed and in place and they can’t wait to host this event for us.
We are now in phase 2 of our planning, and my council is working around the clock to get everything in place, that we can hopefully launch the online Rondavel App registrations in a month’s time. With this you will be able to register and order regalia and we will be able to streamline the whole process with registration day, with orders as well as to pull in detail data for voting and clubs representing on the day with AGM, we hope to completely change the way forward with this process and to also get more details, seeing that we have to comply with Covid regulations as well.
This will be from 27th of April to 1st of May 2022 and Mentorskraal in Jeffreysbay is certainly the venue to pull this We have some big surprises off.
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for the Hardcore Hut, but don’t want to give too much away and I think this will be parties to remember. The themed opening Thursday night will be Beach Party with a twist, so pack your boardshorts and fish slops, this might end up to be a “colourful” evening…..We are busy finalizing the accommodation on and off site and should be able to launch availability with opening of registrations and give through discounted accommodation options around Jeffreysbay as well. There will also be a shuttle service running throughout the course of ARTSA to and from the venue. Continue on page 2
Issue 10
January, 2022
From The President
However, ONE tiny frog continued higher and higher and higher, and this one just wouldn’t give up.
Once upon a time, there was a bunch of frogs who arranged a running competition. The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower. A big crowd had gathered around the tower to watch the race and cheer on the contestants.
In the end, everyone else had given up trying to climb the tower. Except for one tiny frog, who, after a big effort, was the only one who succeeded in reaching the top.
The race began… No one in the crowd believed that any of the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower. Statements such as:
All the other tiny frogs wanted to know how this frog managed to do it? A contestant asked the tiny frog how he had found the strength to succeed in reaching his goal.
The frog did not respond, with only a big smile of success visible on his face.
“Oh, it is WAY too difficult.” Later it turned out that the frog was DEAF.
“They will NEVER make it to the top.” “Not a chance they will succeed, that tower is way too high.” One by one, the tiny frogs started collapsing. They were climbing higher and higher and higher. The crowd continued to yell: “It’s too difficult!!! No one will make it.” More and more tiny frogs got tired and gave up.
With a new year comes new beginnings. As we fast approach the changing of the guard at Table, Area and RTSA level, let us be mindful that we as an Association can only be successful through the support we receive from each other. Let’s make this Tabling year one where negative comments are uncommon, but our drive to support and encourage leads us to new heights.
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January, 2022
The rise of Louis Marchesi Mark Kissler
Erminio William Louis Marchesi was born in Norwich, a city in England's Norfolk County, on the 19th of January 1898. Northeast of the centre, medieval Norwich Cathedral is a Romanesque building with ornate cloisters. Two imposing gates, St. Ethelbert’s and Erpingham, lead to the Tombland area, once a Saxon marketplace. Nearby, the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell traces local history, including a re-created old pharmacy and exhibits on the textile industry. This article is not to be about Norwich, but instead about the founder of Round Table. His father, Erminio, was of Swiss descendancy. Mother Jenny was from England. Marchesi joined the Army, under age, in World War 1 (28 July 1914 – 11 November 1918) and served throughout the war. He was torpedoed off the Cape of Good Hope and spent 10 hours in the sea but survived. In his letters home he called himself “Erminio” , later using “Louis”, but whilst in Table he called himself “Mark”.
After serving in World War 1, he returned home, following in his father's footsteps & becoming a caterer, later joining Norwich Rotary Club. In September 1926, "Mark" as he came to be known, gave a speech to Norwich Rotary Club on ‘Youth and Business’ and is encouraged to form a Young Business and Professional Mens Club. On the 21st of February 1927, Marchesi listened to a radio broadcast of the Prince of Wales' speech at the British Industries Fair in Birmingham as mentioned in chapter 1. Hearing the Prince of Wales speech, Marchesi was inspired to act. He convened a meeting at Suckling House in Norwich on the 14th of March 1927 at which “Round Table” was formed. Its motto was and still is “ADOPT, ADAPT, IMPROVE”. Soon after the first Annual General Meeting of Norwich Round Table is held in February 1928, new Tables were founded in Portsmouth (2), Guildford (3), Southampton (4) and Bournemouth (5). A new Central Council of Round Tables of Great Britain & Ireland was formed on the 25th of May 1928, with Marchesi serving as National President in 1934 to 1935.
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After hitting the age cut-off of 40, Louis was made "Founder & Honorary Life Member" of Round Table in 1937, and by 1939 there were over 4,600 members spread across 125 Tables around the country. After serving in World War 2, Marchesi continued to be involved with Round Table until his death. Marchesi was always a keen sportsman, particularly football and boxing, played tennis even over the age of 50. He was a strong swimmer, which saved his life in WW1. One anecdote reveals his imperturbability: he had forgotten his dress trousers, but was unruffled as his brown ones could not be seen behind the tablecloth. He was very fond of practical jokes, at a farewell party at a National Conference, he turned up in overalls with a broom to sweep up, he was delighted no one recognized him. He aimed to live until 70 at age 68 he was given 6 months to live by his doctor, but he did make 70. Continued on page 4
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Round Table proved it had international appeal with the first overseas Table formed in Copenhagen in 1936. During the war years Round Table in Denmark continued to expand although in the British Isles activity was restricted and was in the nature of a ‘holding operation’.
From the Editor Igor Scheurkogel
After 1945 the pattern of growth was rapidly re-established with Tables being ‘chartered’ all over the UK. Round Table now flourishes in the majority of A new year with new European countries, throughout opportunities that we as Africa, the Middle East, India, tablers are presented to bring #impactful change to our Hong Kong, New Zealand and communities. America. In fact Round Table is represented in every continent of I hope that everyone had a the World, with the exception of great festive season and is Antarctica of course. well rested for 2022. The Founding Father of Round Last year we said we hope Table died on the 10th December that we have a better year 1968. than 2020 however it was a whirlwind of challenges that Epilogue: we had to overcome. And did we? A public house in the city's Tombland area, previously called we did more than just The Waggon and Horses, was overcome challenges and renamed The Louis Marchesi in problems that we faced we 1976. The pub closed in 2005 excelled in that them on and was later re-opened as a making our organization café bar. In August 2017, the pub stronger each meeting or reopened once again under the project at a time and we can name The Louis Marchesi. see from area reports that we
We are now entering in the last couple of months of phase two of the three year branding strategy which was Unity in Brotherhood . And I know that EVERYONE is looking forward to the highlight of our 'brotherhood' and that is A.R.T.S.A. 2022 in Jefferey's Bay. I believe that this is going to be one of the biggest and most fun A.R.T.S.A. that we have had in a very looooooong time so make sure that you register ASAP so that you are not left out from the closing party of the Unity In Brotherhood fellowship. I wish all the incoming table chairmen, portfolio holders, area councils and exec all the luck that they need, but most of the time it's not luck that we need because we have the backing of our brothers and friends, it is time that we need to be able to do all the things we hope to do to make the world a better place. Keep the #GEES high and keep on walking.
have shown great growth Greetings, Doc. across the organization.
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Impactful Change Geesthacht 145: Germany Amize Adams
Round table 145 Swakopmund received a donation from RT Geesthacht 145 in Germany of N$24000.00 to assist the elderly in Swakopmund. This came from the Covid dilemma that most towns hospitals faced in Namibia with the shortage of Hospital beds. Since the inception of the idea Swakopmund’s need for hospital beds have been alleviated by Government. When Geesthacht 145 made the donation SWK 145 had decided to purchase 2 fully equipped hospital beds which remains the property of SWK145. We had seen the need of the elderly in Swakopmund for an equipped hospital bed as most beds in hospital are occupied with Covid patients. The beds will be loaned to the elderly where they need them for medical purposes.
Swakopmund 145 would like to thank Geesthacht 145 for their donation making it possible to assist our elderly and help with better life quality. One more notch on the inter table relations from Germany to Nam.
We have currently loaned out one of the 2 beds to Mrs. Mouton a 90-year-old Swakopmund resident who broke her hip and needed a medical bed to help with the healing process. The use of the bed will allow for easier access to bathrooms and allow for a proper healing process with less strain on her when getting in and out of bed. The second bed is available and SWK145 has a few elderly we are looking at to use the bed for a 6month period.
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The Gift of Hearing: Oticon's Gift IThe hearing aids and kits were delivered and the fun could begin. The project kickoff was truly fitting as we did all 8 of our candidates in the month of September as this is the International/National Month for Deaf People.
Tiaan Schoeman
In conjunction with Oticon, we were able to provide 8 children with hearing tests, new hearing aids & hearing aid drying kits. Chris Merts and I set out to start this project back in 2020. This took us from email to email, phone call to phone call and zoom meeting to zoom meeting. Yes it took us a year to get this project approved and successfully going. We identified 8 learners from Sonitus School in Pretoria. The process sounds quick and easy but it is not as simple as you may think. All candidates need to send a motivation letter, identification documents/birth certificate as well as an audiogram. The candidates need to be identified by us and then sent to Oticon for final approval. The real hard work goes out when we find and select the candidates. Most of the challenges start with an audiogram as most of the candidates cannot afford it. With the help of Sonitus and Oticon we had this covered.
My eyes were tearing up as we did our first candidate. She was a young child who could not hear properly for the last 5 years as her old hearing aids were not working anymore. Her eyes opened up and we could see the expression on her face as she could hear all the sounds while her hearing aids were being set to her audiogram results. The smile on her face said it all. The project was and is a success. I was pleased to have our chairman, Antonie Snoopy Smit with me to experience this. The programming takes a while and has its own difficulties as we need to set it softer or louder for some of the candidates. The new hearing aids and candidates need to be checked regularly after the fittings as it could cause headaches. The fitting took us two full days to complete. I am proud to say that we will be continuing with this project with Oticon for many years to come. We have sent in a few more possible candidates for approval and if all goes well we will again be making a difference early next year.
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January, 2022
Returning Nurses Amize Adams
It has become apart that more and more nurses have been recalled or have decided on their own to come out of retirement to help hospitals and clinics in their regions to try and coup with the Covid Pandemic. Some are reimbursed for their time and would you believe that some do not seek reimbursement. It must take a lot for a person to come out of retirement to assist in a pandemic where their lived are even more at risk. The risk of exposure is high and these nurses who have returned are well aware of it. Wel213 found 5 such nurses in Rehoboth. They have come out of retirement to assist in the pandemic and puts their wellbeing at risk to try and assist the growing need for medical frontline staff. R. Rittman retired in 1989, C. Joodt retired in 1979, J. Mouton retired in 1988 and A. Beukes who retired in 1980 have all returned to the service to assist. Wel213 donated 10 oximeters to these nurses to help with early detection of oxygen levels and in that way, help save lives. Each nurse will have their own and the second can be used for the patients they treat both in and outside of hospital. Wel213 wish to thank these nurses who came out of retirement to assist and all frontline workers for their contributions to fighting the covid pandemic in Namibia.
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January, 2022
Winter Knights
P.E. West 142 Cornel Strydom
Every year the Winter Knights project seems like the simplest project, but I always find it to be the most heartfelt project of the table calendar. It provides us with the opportunity to throw out that hideous jersey your aunt bought you for your last birthday under the umbrella of “it is going to someone who needs it more than I do”, which rids you of the guilt of never wearing it. Our table Chairman, Keteltjie, challenged each tabler to source at least three black bags of clothing, which seemed like a stretch at the time. As usual, 142 does not stand back from a challenge and we were determined to achieve the goal. Some of more than others as we were set to deliver the clothes on Saturday 12 June. The Friday evening before the deadline we received frantic messages on our Whatsapp group from Dewald aka JaJa as he was still collecting clothes.
The banter started as it seemed more like JaJa was taking these clothes from people without their consent seeing that it was quite late at night he was driving around looking for clothes left on the washing line by unsuspecting housewives. Saturday morning the bags started arriving and we eventually counted more than 60 bags of clothing donated by the generous public and whoever JaJa raided. Special thanks to PE Pearls Ladies Circle No 19 who generously also donated some clothing and Algoa Toyota for their cash donation. We were approached by the Christelike Maatskaplike Raad (CMR) Despatch for old clothes to distribute to the needy and for us, it was a no brainer to support them. The clothes were delivered to CRM who in turn ran a community outreach whereby they invited everyone in the community to come and help themselves with clothes.
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Pietermaritzburg 12
James Gouweloos
On the 24h of June PMB12 had their first ever R2 evening. The concept, which was greatly inspired by another chapter, was to have the members of our organization hand out R2 coins to members of the public who were entering the store we were stationed at for the evening. Those few R2 coins served as an excellent investment as many of the recipients proceeded and put it towards a form of nonperishable food which was collected by PMB with the purpose of distribution for our annual winter knights project. Unfortunately as it would happen, the Civil unrest which ravaged much of KZN would occur shortly after this which heavily disrupted our plans for public distribution. However, out of these trying times have emerged many positives and for PMB12 this came in the form of a newfound friendship with the charity Mama Ntombii's Community Projects. This wonderful organisation exists to empower and enrich local communities and achieves so much with very little. Not only did they greatly assist us with distributing the collected foodstuffs but they were able to help those who needed it most at a time where there was much social distrust and confusion. We are deeply grateful for their assistance with this project and eagerly await opportunities for further collaboration. Overall this turned into one of our most successful Winter Knights ventures in recent years and the impactful change which occurred in the surrounding community caused it to be an even more rewarding experience.
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Unity in Brotherhood Building International Relationships Jacques van Wyk Alex/Kenton210 had the pleasure to host a visiting group of German Rowers who came to row both Rivers around Kenton on Sea. We were approached to run a Steak Evening on Sunday 17 of October 2021 in a Fellowship orientated encounter by an Alex/Kenton210 41r and past Area Chairman, Bruce Steelgray (1983) with the only request being that they wanted the “South African fellowship” Experience. Our Clubhouse offered the perfect location, fires were burning by the time our guests arrived with rain starting to fall, allowing our guests to settle in with a glass of wine and a few beers. It was great to get out and do an event like this, considering we had been locked up for so long due to Covid19. We loved chatting to our guests who mentioned that they had no contact with Round Table Prior to this and they absolutely loved the interaction. This was the perfect event to get the steak evening cobwebs dusted off as we look to drive this type of initiative going forward. We look forward to many more events.
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Fellowship with a Charitable Outcome
Chris Oldacre So yes, although this may be an article about the amazing gentlemen who got involved in the 2021 Ride Joburg Cycle race, I would like to look at it from a different perspective. Northridge has set about this year to define each and every project around Fellowship with a Charitable outcome, and Ride Joburg 2021 defined this. In my opinion, Fellowship is the best part about table, but to ensure we are still focused on giving back to the local community, the charitable outcome is a must. On 21 November 2021, 8 Gauteng Tables and one International Table (Harare 23) joined forces by setting up the #CycleSquad and #BraaiSquad to not only create bonds between tablers, but also memories that will last a lifetime. The motivation from fellow tablers allowed all 12 riders to reach their goal for the day, without any man being left behind. To say the feeling of hitting that goal sent shivers down my spine to the point there was a tear in my eye.
The welcome and cheers from the guys, when cyclists were hitting the 67km mark, was definitely well needed motivation. Numbers raised are still being finalized, but from the sponsors alone we brought in R16 000. Now, back to the title of this article. Fellowship with a Charitable Outcome was defined through the assistance of the following tables: Northridge, Florida, Sandton, Edenvale, Boksburg, Midrand, Sandown, Golden East and Harare 23. When last did a project bring that much Fellowship amongst Gauteng area? When last did we participate in an event linked to well being and pushing each individual past breaking point, with a team of supporters like no other, to bring about change as an overall project and for each club individually.
It was an emotionally moving day but the #ImpactfulChange this event created is what drives me to want to table harder! I challenge each and every table, and area, to review Then onto the #BraaiSquad, Florida and the projects you doing and find true fellowship Northridge joined forces to setup cold beers with a charitable outcome. The results are amazing! and Hot Boerie rolls for all the riders.
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January, 2022
Fellowship with a Charitable Outcome Mark Kissler It was a warm Sunday evening. A lot of cheer filled the air and many happy faces could be seen all around. Dutch F1 driver Max Verstappen had just won the Formula 1 World Championship, the first of surely many. That was the time we received the news. Brother Arthur, an IT specialist from Round Table 86 Amstelland, his fiancé Anneke and their Jack Russel Lemon were at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam and ready to depart to Windhoek. 41er Philip wanted to home-host the fellow tabler, his bride and their four-legged child, but once again a Covid-19 scare nullified their hospitality. So it was up to Windhoek 34 to make a plan. Werner asked Mark if he would be up for home-hosting the Dutch couple. Of course the answer was ‘yes’ whilst Werner was willing to entertain them throughout the day and assist with getting the necessary veterinarian permits in place so that they could travel to Cape Town shortly.
We shared a memorable Sundowner on a mountain in Kleine Kuppe and were joined by our tabler PJ, Arlene and friend of 34, Richard. So what do you think these tourists needed to round off a perfect evening? Yes, a proper braai was in order. Head chef Werner brought his über-delicious steaks and proper boerewors from his restaurant, the Smokey Mare, and expertly grilled the meat to perfection (yes, that is medium and a seared with craft) whilst girlfriend Arlene and tourist Anneke prepared a scrumptious salad.
During the day comrade Wormsbächer attended to their every need and ensured they would be getting the permits, had brunch at Mugg & Bean and even enjoyed some refreshments at arguably the most well-known We wish them safe travels down to Cape Town restaurant to all tourists: Joe’s Beerhouse. and later to Pretoria, the latter where they will be In the afternoon they’ve arrived at Mark’s wed on the 8th of January 2022 after they had to apartment where they freshened up, relaxed postpone their wedding, yet again, compliments and were able to unwind after a busy foregone of Covid-19. 24 hours.
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Cross Border Raid Bloemfontein 25 Lihann Kriek The year is running out and there was still one thing missing. We needed to make one more small contribution to the years success and that is to do a cross border raid to our good friends in Douglas that we last visited 4 years ago. We started planning our visit to Douglas and no dates suited the most of the guys, but the date for boy’s weekend to Tri Area in Prieska. As we were already 9 tablers committed to the Prieska trip we had the discussion to leave on the Thursday to Douglas and then from there on to Prieska, but another problem popped up. We have a golf day on Thursday we are helping with and we need most of the guys to stay and help. So, me “Lihann” and Marius “Mot” the most experience tablers travelers with Umpa and Ferando new tablers will leave on the Thursday on do the cross border raid and rest will join us in Douglas the Friday. We left early the morning with the young tablers having no idea what we have planned for them on the day. The day started with small talks in the bakkie and “regular pit stops” to Kimberly. Needless to say it taken us more then 3 hours just for 180km. In Kimberly I have arranged with Buurman “Francios Brzuidenhoud” 41’er of Hermanus who was by hook of by crook in Kimberly to have few social drinks. That changed drastically up in huge “party”. We only left Kimberly because it was getting dark and we had to meet the Douglas boys at the river and this on gravel round before we get to Douglas. We followed the directions to letter but somewhere between Douglas boys and us the translation was lost and went past the check of point. We ended up at another family who was chilling at the banks of river having a few beers.
We stop for a few minutes there making some small talk. Mot as he is always made him self comfortable between the people and before we realized, he was bating “the people we just meet” fishing rods and casting the rods into the river. Luckily before any one said a word we received notice from the Douglas boys we passed the house and just need to turn back and come up river. We just made in time to be meet the Douglas boys for small trip on a house boat to see the sunset on the river having a few cold ones and making new friends and seeing some old friends. These brothers know how to treat guests and we did not expect less. We had fellowship till late that morning and that was one for the books.
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The Hunting Boogie After arrival and in true Namibian fashion we lit a fire and started quenching our thirst. The ladies in children did not tag along as this is a ‘manne naweek’ and they made themselves comfortable at the farm house on their own. The then pipeliner, Richard, felt quite masculine and slightly overdid it on the first night and was fast asleep rather early.
Riaan Stadler For obvious reasons 34’s Hunting Boogie 2020 was cancelled last year. Thank you Wuhan! In August 2021, however, we were able to host this fellowship project yet again. The Hunting Boogie is reserved for 41ers, members, pipeliners and guests of our club only and intended to improve fellowship and friendship. This year did somewhat break the convenor’s bullet allowance but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. On a Friday afternoon the convenor, wife and children as well as the widow and her children of the late Frikkie Engels were on the road and enroute to the farm. On the way there a rather slow Marius in his Toyota Hilux was passed. To underline the lack of momentum: even Amelda Engels overtook him in her bakkie. Though clear directions were given to all tablers in attendance, all of them got somewhat lost. Philip, Ernst and PJ were found on their way to Leonardville, roughly 27km after the turnoff they should have taken.
Finally the long-awaited Saturday where we would hunt has arrived. Ernst and Ian were quite successful with their hunts, though they used a few more rounds of lead than initially anticipated. To everyone’s surprise Marius, our Vice Chairman who grew up on a farm, was unable to hit his springbucks. He looked the part, haute couture de sniper. In other words he wore the appropriate camouflage, but it felt like he was an Italian mobster with a tommy gun. It has been decided not to disclose the amount of bullets used to shoot three springbuck but suffice it to say the farm is now eligible for lead mining. On the Saturday evening we were laid back and engaged in relaxed conversation, some drinks and cooling off in the dam. As is customary we also played some pranks on one another and thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship. It was a remarkable weekend and a lot of fun to have been able to hunt with the guys of 34. Let’s hope the next Hunting Boogie will be another one for the books.
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Projects MOTO PREP BIKE DYNO DAY Shane Tait Moto Prep Racing got hold of Round Table Algoa 108 to assist and run the bar for their Motorbike Dyno Day on 26 th June 2021. Members of Algoa 108 arrived nice and early on the icey-windy morning worrying how the weather would effect the event. After a cup or 2 of coffee we got set-up and ready for business. We all know how quick Algoa 108 can turn any event into a party…. Which is exactly what we done!!! As the morning turned into afternoon, the beers started flowing and the vibe just got better and better. We were lucky enough to have managed to completely sell out all of the beers which we had bought for the event right at the end of the day as we were busy packing up for the day.
Karkloof Polo Project James Gouweloos On the weekend of the 3rd of September, Karkloof Polo Club was home to two simultaneous Polo Tournaments. On this historic weekend for the venue, Round Table PMB12 was asked to provide catering for the weekend as Hilton 242 were rendered unable to participate in the event due to the induction of 41’er President Niko McNamara.
Arriving on the Friday morning of the project filled everyone who was present with great concerns due to the weather seeming extraordinarily grim for the weekend. Special mention of the incredible ground staff from the club needs to be made for successfully setting up the marquee despite the strong winds which were prevalent throughout the day. We are extremely grateful that despite what were originally suspect conditions, the weather calmed towards the evening and the main tent was able to host an amazing opening night which served to set the tone for an incredible weekend.
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Play opened up the following morning and it became quickly apparent how profoundly little many of us knew about the sport. Despite having very little understanding of what was happening on the field, the wonderful spirit in which the tournament was being played quickly became apparent. It would be remiss to not acknowledge the entrants of the tournament who’s wonderful attitude both on and off the pitch was a major reason the weekend was such a success. Finally, it is a great pleasure to report on the efforts of the tablers who gave up their free time to the hands and feet of the event. Having had so little to report on in recent times it feels somewhat difficult to put into words all of the reasons why it felt so amazing to be a part of the community again. Even commenting on some of the many highlights from the weekend such as having our newest member Conrad Nel inducted by the RTSA President and VP, or Andrew Norton doing his level best to make Knight Rider a part of pop-culture again (an endeavor which was unfortunately doomed to fail) or what is most likely history’s most unique menu, cannot truly portray the feeling of pride and brotherhood which we were able to experience truly since the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown. In closing it seems appropriate to mention what a wonderful honour and pleasure it was to be able to represent this great organisation again in a public forum and how much we greatly anticipate being able to take part in other similar events going forward once more.
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Joyful Hearts is in Full Swing Mark Kissler Success is the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. After a the first Joyful Hearts was launched in 2020 our convenor, Riaan Stadler, is back with an even bigger project in 2021. Joyful Hearts’ full intention and commitment is focused on providing a shoebox sized present filled with goodies to less fortunate children in our community that would otherwise not experience the magic that Christmas entails. This year we have opted to hand over the gifts to the children of the Side by Side – Early Intervention Centre and Orlindies Children’s Village. Officially the project launched on the 1st of November in Windhoek’s Maerua Mall. The landlord for this shopping centre is Oryx Properties who have graciously committed to availing us a large stand at their flagship mall free of charge. They even went on to sponsor décor and a Christmas tree. Indongo Toyota came on board too with a magnificent cash donation to the amount of a staggering N$ 15,000 to aid in expenses such as employing Diane for the month who is posted at our stand daily between 09:00 and 18:00. But wait, there is more. Our media partners for Winter Knights, Future Media Namibia, also offered us lots of free airtime through creating an advertisement that is played on two of their stations throughout November, RadioWave and Nova 103.5. The value of this airtime is in excess of N$ 75,000. The presenters for both radio stations are also on site twice throughout the month to promote the event to Namibians and encourage them to take part. So how does the project work? As an individual you can go to the stand in Maerua Mall and take a name tag off of the Christmas tree. This name tag contains the name, gender and age of the child who will be the direct beneficiary of the shoebox. Items usually contain one item of clothing, some sweets and basic educational material such as a colouring book and pens. Thanks to Dulux Namibia for sponsoring the boxes and PEP Stores for providing free wrapping paper all gifts can be wrapped at the stand at no cost to the person who has bought a present. Initially we had bargained for 75 children to receive gifts this year. However, due to the fantastic marketing on radio we had to expand our beneficiaries pool and therefore, amongst others, the children from SOS Children’s Village and Indongo Care Centre Ongwediva shall too receive presents. The total recipients have grown to 257 and has surpassed Riaan’s hopeful expectation of 250 kids he wanted to reach this year. It is important to note the audit firm Deloitte, who has assisted the project to acquiring gifts for a total of 63 children on our list. Success is always achievable when you set your mind to it. Through the collaboration of a determined convenor and our aforementioned partners and the Namibian public, Joyful Hearts is a phenomenal project in 2021 and shall bring unexpected Christmas spirit to many children.
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January, 2022
Glen Fair – Spring Clean Project Tiaan Schoeman Pretoria 136 set out yet again to drive impactful change with a new project. Glenfair Boulevard Shopping Centre joined forces with Pretoria 136, to help those in need and the less fortunate. On 20 September 2021 we asked the general public to help by donating non-perishable items, food, clothing and sanitary items at Glenfair Boulevard’s Spring Shop until the 30 th of October 2021! Every Thursday - Sunday from 9am - 1pm. The shop was situated across the ABSA and above Dischem and the pet store. This was slightly different from what were used to as we were inside the shop waiting for the public to come to us and not out there doing what we do best by helping those in need. We had the whole of 136 jumping in on the weekends to do shifts whilst still running other projects simultaneously. To the 136 ladies - what can we say? You are really the best! The 136 ladies jumped in to help like they always do, without hesitation and questions, well not too many questions. To spice things up a little bit and assist the project, we ran a R2 project at the Checkers which you will be reading about a bit later. This was also the first one we did at Glenfair.
All the clothes were divided in different categories making the count much more accurate. This could only be done by the help of our awesome girls from Generaal Louis Botha Kinderhuis who were tremendously excited to be helping. All the clothes and toys were donated to Generaal Louis Botha Kinderhuis. This made me realize how most of us take things for granted like a t-shirt or a pair of flops. To us it’s easy to just buy another pair tomorrow, but to them your last pair might just be their only. Maybe we could all just take a step back and learn from these girls as they were grateful and thankful for something you did not want anymore and regarded as old.
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Issue 10
January, 2022
Mini Golf Project Amize Adams Round table 145 Swakopmund hosted a very successful mini golf day on the 25 th of November 2021. The main aim of the day was to raise funds for Vanesa teenage girl who had been electrocuted in a freak accident on 1 st of July 2021. Vanesa had very bad burns on her hands and lost her thumb and fore finger on her right hand. Her Left hands palm is still in a serious condition. She has had multiple operations and consequently lost her left hands pinky. Vanesa still has to undergo a few operations and SWK145 hopes to alleviate the financial pressure on her father with this project. SWK145 managed to get 18 teams registered and participate in the project. We even had Hochland 154 joining a team to support our project. The day was filled with fun and as you can imagine a lot of golf puns and humor. The teams made so much effort and we thank each team for participating. We had some teams in Tutu’s and the team from D&M Rail in their industry standard work uniform complete with hard hats, who took some time to get measurements before every put. We also found out how many construction workers is needed to putt one ball as you can see in the pictures the answer is “5” and a Supervisor.
Chairman of Windhoek 34 Ernst also participated with FNB and the bonus was to have the SWK145 41érs also having a team participating. This was a much-needed fun day enjoyed responsibly getting your mind off the Covid we life with currently, even if it was just for a day. The project received such great feedback and support, SWK145 has decided to make it an annual project to use the funds raise to help our community. We would like to thank all the teams for their support on the day and making the project a success. You have been part of changing the life of Vanesa. A Huge thank you to all the sponsors who made the event possible. Last but not least to our fellow tablers who put in the effort and work to not just make it happen but make also make it a successful project and all-round fun day. Swakopmund 145 has through the Mini Golf Project raised N$ 27 000.00 which will be handed over to her in due course we hope this will help.
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January, 2022
PROTECT YOUR MANHOOD! Tiaan Schoeman Prostate Cancer is the most common male cancer affecting men in SA. An estimated 1 in 19 SA men will develop prostate cancer. We at Pretoria 136 encourage monthly testicular self-examinations, annual medical check-ups and cancer screening for early detection, as symptoms don't always present until cancer has spread. Men also need to lead an active, healthy, balanced lifestyle, cutting out lifestyle factors that increase their cancer risk.
Here are 10 symptoms of testicular cancer: A buildup of fluid in the scrotum Testicular or scrotum pain Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts Lower back pain Enlarged or swollen Lymph nodes Painless lump in the testicle Swelling of the testicle or scrotum Shrinking of a testicle Scrotal Heaviness Groin ache With about 950 Tablers in RTSA we can make a difference by leading the way where men do not have to be shy and can talk openly about getting tested. We are all strong individuals but we are even stronger together as brothers. Let’s make a difference and let’s make the world know Round Table, the greatest young man’s organization is taking a stand together and protecting our manhood.
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Issue 10
January, 2022
Secret Santa 2021 Amize Adams Christmas is a time for being merry and spending time with your loved ones. What can be more exciting forbboth young and old to receive a present from underneath the tree on Christmas eve. Whether a present be big or small it warms the heart and just makes the celebrations even more memorable. This however is not the case for all of us , as not all of us get the opportunity to enjoy Christmas with family and friend nor have that feeling of excitement for a present under the Christmas tree. Some are not as fortunate and have to make do with what they have and what is dealt. This sounds quite Grimm I do concur but continue reading it will become apparent as we go along. S.O.S. Childrens village is one such place where some have to make due with what is dealt, a Christmas with family and presents under a tree is not in most of these Kids Christmas realities. A family they have in the house that they live but that surely can’t make up for a father and mother not being around. The idea of this being a Christmas for most got Wel213 members to devise a plan to ensure this Christmas was a merry one. Wel213 started the Secret Santa 2021 Project and got LoGlobe, Hansen & Hansen and Silver Cricket onboard with the project. Wel213 sold Stickers@ N$30.00 in this way making you the secret Santa for all the children in the S.O.S. village.
We213 was able to sell enough stickers to ensure that both S.O.S. and Megamano Orphanage where able to benefit from the project thanks to RTNAM and its tablers who supported the project by sharing links of company interested to be part of the Secret Santa project. A special thanks to Eduard RT145 and Johan RT34 who went out of their way help with our project. Wel213 was able to ensure that each of the 11 houses of S.O.S. children village and Megameno Orphanage received Christmas presents and putting a smile on the children faces and joy back into Christmas in 2021. Gifts where not of individual nature as we wanted them to get closer and ensure no one is left out. Wel213 bought educational gift in the form of Scrabble, Chess, Checkers and many more. Combining with Windhoek 34’s Joyful Hearts project. Wel213 also delivered individual gifts for those at Magameno and S.O.S. Windhoek 34’s Joyful Hearts project was a huge success this year and this ensured that the +/- 100 kids of both Megamano and S.O.S. where able to receive an individual Christmas present also purchased by members of the public. Wel213 Also delivered the Joyful Hearts Presents at the Rehoboth children’s home on the same day.
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January, 2022
Fight for Sight Christo Bezuidenhout June the Fight for Sight project kicked off with 2 clubs visited and a few bucks raised. Then came harder lockdown measures and the travelling stagnated untie September. It has thrown the planning out a little and its forcing us to do more travelling in a shorter time. But since the Table visits have got going again this project has just surpassed all my expectations so far. The raiding and physical visits have raised so much interest and just once again proven how important the fellowship side of this organization really is. Each and every single Table we have raided so far have accepted us with open arms and just shown us the best time. Whether I have visited them alone, with one or 2 Tablers or loaded a bus with 11 guys, it doesn’t matter. Just pitching up, and pitching the project has opened Tablers hands, hearts and created more friendship than I expected when starting this project. Since September we have pushed the Table visits up to 41. Some Gauteng and Bushveld Tables were visited on business meetings. As well as Secunda and Middelburg in the Mpumalanga Area. We sat out a day and the the KOSH Tables in the STNOFS area in one day after visiting the STNOFS area Council meeting. And the cherry on top so far has been the “Boeties gaan Border” tour where we raided 12 Tables in the Border area over one weekend!!! One of the highlights of my Table career so FAR!!!! Raising R101 000 in that single weekend.
And just when I thought that couldn’t be topped I ended of November raids with a visit to Sandown 150. This was probably the most unbelievable business meeting I have ever been to. Instead of 1 person bidding on the 150 coin, the Table decided to bid together and even inspiring raiding tables like Northridge 117 and Mauritius 5 to get involved. In a prolonged 1 hour long “bidding war”, the attendees raised R110 150 for 1 single fellowship coin. That alone will help more than 10 children receive the gift of sight!! When I started off I aimed to raise R500 000 for the year. With another 83 Tables to visit and a corporate event day and music show to come, we have already raised R327 000!!! We will keep pushing….watch this space and our facebook pages. As our first beneficiaries are starting to receive their eye tests, the money will start flowing to where it is supposed to go! Thank you Tablers from all over the country for the support of this project so far. We will not stop until all 124 clubs have been visited and the full Impactful change has been established.
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January, 2022
Table News Wel213 @ RTNAM AGM 2021 Mr. Pres made an appearance in Feb this year at our AGM but even with it only being a couple of months back it still felt way to long since we saw each other. We made our way to Omaruru with a few stops along the road.
Amize Adams
The road got a bit long for the Pres and Vice Pres which was evident as about a quarter of the way on the gravel road they overtook and we only saw them at the lodge again, Me and the wife had to take it slow not driving a 4x4 but still made it even though my back felt like it needed a replacement which it does…
Welwitschia 213 hosted the Namibia October Area 1-3 October 2021. With June Area canceled because of Lockdown and travel restrictions Wel213 was afforded the opportunity to try again in October and lucky for us all the Restrictions were lifted allowing for all planning to continue.
Koedoeberg Guest farm surpassed our expectations with lodging, food and service as anyone can attest to it was a trifecta of perfection. The Friday evening started a bit late as we had to wait for a few guys of WHK34 and the last group of Welwitschia 213 to arrive. Friday evening, we had great fellowship and for Wel213 found a nice quite guest farm that was some their 1st unique experience at an Area situated in the middle of Walvisbay and but for all a well-deserved break from the reality Windhoek in or just outside a little town called of covid and its regulations etc. Omaruru. Koedoeberg Guest Farm was a Saturday morning saw a few tiered secluded farm about 55km from Omaruru on a Sunglasses, but with the Pres and Vice Pres gravel road. But those who drove it will tell you having one hell of a talk even though it took us it definitely doesn’t feel like 55km. almost 2hours before we could get to the We had an early start the Friday morning but with last purchases and deliveries we were waiting for we headed out of Windhoek a bit later than we expected while the Pres and VP Stefan and Werner where waiting for us in Okahandja. It was so great to see Werner and Stephan again after a long while especially Werner as its been about 2 years since we last Saw each other with covid hampering travel and shutting down ARTSA’s.
session because the internet was not able to facilitate a fast download. This inevitably made the meeting so much longer than it needed to be and the Sgt made sure someone got treated for the delay. Be that as it may the talk with Stefan and Werner was for some an eye opener but for most a much-needed adrenalin injection. Werner and Stephan should have their own tv show or at the very least do motivational seminars.
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January, 2022
The meeting was finally done a couple of hours over estimated time but it was worth it, with RTNAM getting a new slogan “#100%Namibian” and the Boks getting a win in the 83rd minute the guys where celebrating. Wel213 had to start the preparations and meals for the night. The ladies already started and after a quick wardrobe change the tablers assisted. Shout out to Mark Kissler and a few others how lent a hand where needed to ensure that we make up some lost time. The evening opened with the theme well adhered to by all. The Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) theme was awesome if I do say so myself. This was only successful because of all the efforts made by each tabler legs and the kids. Everyone looked stunning but don’t take my word for it you can check it our for yourself curtesy or R. Photography who immortalised the evening through his photo booth. The evening was made even better by Wel213’s legs and tablers who ensure an authentic welcome drink was available and authentic Mexican food was prepared to fit the theme. The traditional boat races commenced and a congratulations is in order to WHK34 who kept the Men’s team trophy and the individuals. The Ladies trophy was taken by Hochland 154’s own Chantel Gous who can definitely give the 154 gents some pointers.
The Area could not have been as great as it was with out the tablers who made the effort to attend Wel213 thanks each individual who attended. A special thanks goes to Stefan Grobler RTSA Pres and Werner Swanepoel RTSA vice Pres who made their way to Namibia to attend, we wish we could have you at every Namibia Area, your livers might not be able to coup but you know you’ll be having a The evening turned into morning and the part great time. was still live, it was clear that there would be minimal sleep to be had and fellowship was at Last but not least Wel213 tablers, guest and legs you guys deserve a thank you for a great the helm of the night. area that could not have occurred if not for your Koedoeberg Guest Farm had ensured that the efforts I am sure that I have the sentiments of October Area was a huge success with their the entire area when I say “Thank You” for a service and “no problem is to big” attitude. A memorable Area. huge thank you to Melani and her staff for making it a very enjoyable weekend and Can’t wait for the next one let’s stay treating each individual like royalty. 100%Namibian…
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January, 2022
Prieska 161 Halfeeu Feesviering met Tri-Area Jaco Burger In 1971 is Prieska Tafelronde 161 gestig en hierdie jaar het ons op 15 tot 17 Oktober 2021 ons 50ste bestaansjaar gevier deur ‘n Tri-Area aan te bied. Die areas wat bygewoon het was Vrystaat, Noord-Kaap en STNOFS. Soos oudergewoonte was die Vrydagaand ‘n heerlike laat-aand kuier met 2 spitte op die vuur en twee kroeë. Saterdag is geopen deur die ARTSA-president, Stefan Grobler, en die vergaderings het daarna gevolg. Die dames-toer was ‘n reuse sukses met ‘n “Muddy Tabler” modderhindernisbaan, waar al die dames deur modder moes kruip, oor hindernisse klouter en daarna by die Blue Stone Saloon middagete gaan eet het. Saterdagaand het almal by die Blue Stone Saloon vir oulaas lekker saam gekuier en ‘n steakete geniet. Dit was ‘n groot voorreg om verskeie “Excects” te kon akkmodeer, onder andere RTI President, Graham Cornelisen. Die naweek is afgesluit deur ontbyt op die oewer van die Oranje rivier. Prieska 161 wil graag elkeen wat die Tri-area bygewoon het hartlik bedank vir hul bydrae tot die sukses van die geleentheid, die lekker kuiers en ongelooflike kamerraadskap. Aanneem. Aanpas. Verbeter.
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Prieska Tri-Area Lihann Kriek
After the year we as tablers had and still going throw we are missing a lot of time to have fellowship in different mediums as an ARTSA, Winter Conferences and other forms off fellowship. Everything is being done through the medium of Zoom and we loosing that form comradery that is between tablers. So, at first sight of fellowship we as tabler jumped at the idea of a boy’s weekend during the Tri area in Prieska. We planned and we committed to be 8 of the 11 tablers to go as well as one of our honorary members. 4 Off as has left on the Thursday to do a cross border raid in Douglas and the rest of the tablers will meet up in Douglas the Friday. The Friday kicked off with the 4 tablers already in Douglas just filling up to get over the previous nights fellowship with the Douglas tablers. The rest of the tablers on their way to Douglas. As soon as every one arrived in Douglas we set off to Douglas golf course for a quick nine hole and left to Douglas clubhouse. We all then meet up at Douglas clubhouse that seems to be the quick pit stop for all the tablers on their way to Prieska for Tri Area. We had lunch with the Douglas tablers as well as any of the other tablers that stop there. After we had good time at the clubhouse we left for Prieska. We arrange to set up camp at an old 41’ers from Prieska. We had ones again a great host and the best view you can ever asked for. On the river and the host taking us out on the river on a houseboat to see the sunset. There after we left for the evening’s braai and some cold ones.
The evening was out of the world with the Prieska tablers make sure there was no stone unturned. he night did go on to late in morning hours but was worth it, but the morning waking up maybe not that much. Ones again the opening, meeting as well as the food was from the top shelve and there were still an evenings calibrations ahead with Prieska table turning the big number 50. Yes, the table is 50 years old. The evening kicked off as we just picking up from yesterday party. The food, friends and fellowship still going on and seems no one wanted to leave. There was also auction and ones again our brother Mot gave the biggest bid on one of the items. We left ones again in late hours of the morning as the party did not look if its going to end soon.
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BMG 2021 Mark Yelland
From the 24 – 26 September 2021, amidst a global pandemic, a group of young men from the RTSA (Round Table South Africa) and their partners gathered for the famous mini conference of the year, BMG (Bushveld, Mpumalanga and Gauteng areas). This time, it was Sandton Round Table’s turn to host, which we duly did in true “table” style – it is believed by many that it would have taken more than a mere global pandemic to prevent this from happening. On 24 September, the BMG kicked off with RTSA men and their families started arriving at a venue in Muldersdrift called 26 degrees South. People arriving were met by Sandton Round Table at registration, where they could collect or buy some BMG memorabilia, such as BMG pins, limited coins, caps, and bar mats. After dealing with all that registration stuff it was time to get the good times rolling. With Brandy & Coke, Gin & Tonic and Castle Light drink special the weekend was set – what could go wrong? Later that day, when registration had closed for the day, the venue produced a delicious braai, in honor of Heritage Day. Some who attended the party came dressed up for the occasion who can forget the gents in their matching outfits. There were a few contenders for the best dressed, but we decided that Hennie must take the honors for BMG 2021 best dressed. All who attended had had a fantastic time where much fellowship, laughter, “gees” and drinking took place into the wee hours of the morning of Saturday 25 September.
A restful Saturday afternoon was needed by most to recover and because many knew of what was to follow in the evening. After enjoying a hearty dinner, produced by the venue again, it was time for Round 2 – the Area Shirt Party. It was announced at the party that South Africa won the bid to host the 2023 World Meeting. This was met with loud applause and just added to burning bonfires outside, pumping music getting people dancing to make this a party to remember. Sunday morning 26 September, all that was left was breakfast and then it was time to pack up and be on your merry way. It’s always a good idea to hand in your keys before leaving, just ask a few gents from Bushveld area, who learnt that the hard way. The Bushveld area has big shoes to fill come 2022! I hope to see everyone there.
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136 Family Weekend Marko Hall It was a 3 year in the making weekend, with Covid regulations and people being busy, we finally plan a family weekend. For me it was something new as it would be my first Pta 136 family eevent. It has to be said that our chairman Antonie Smit as co-convener and head convener mr IPP Christo Bezhuidenhout put a lot of effort into planning a great family weekend. The venue selected was Rooibos Game Lodge and what a venue it was. The drive in to the lodge was breathtaking, a true Bushveld area. The Friday night was like none other in some sense and a bit similar to the first night of a weekend conference. It was a time where new tabler wifes met tabler wifes that have been in it for a while. The stories that was shared of table and past conferences and even projects is stuff made of legends. The menu selected was phenomenal and no one could say there wasn’t enough.
The Saturday morning, recovering a bit of the night before, breakfast was put forward and everyone capable was involved. We where treated to a game drive mid morning and the good times kicked of again. The 136 gents then treated the ladies to a speedo shoot which had a couple of good laughs going. Just to note and put on record the men vs ladies 30seconds challenge went to the boys, as we understand each other, like Stair Way to Heaven is a Led Zeppelin song but Dire Straights was the answer. As we got set to watch SA smash England, so we hoped, the reality got the best of us and the night went through a bit of a wobble. Luckily with shooters on hand we fixed it right up. The night came to a close a bit sooner than the first as everyone had a full Sunday ahead at home, with washing and kids school studying for those with exams. Nevertheless Sunday breakfast wasn’t the normal everyone dreading to leave but a well planned finale to a great weekend. This weekend made a big impact on my kids and wife and some bonds where built on this weekend.
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January, 2022
News from the Ladies Ladies’ Circle Windhoek Meet & Greet
Mark Kissler Gentlemen of Round Table: Take a moment and applaud the fantastic women in our lives. We will always talk and go on about how we are the stronger sex, less complicated and have fewer issues. Perhaps a metaphor is in order. Men are like cars from the mid twentieth century – no luxuries and easy to fix but also break down quite often. Women are ‘vehicles’ packed with the latest sensors and safety features, complex wiring and altogether very advanced. The crew of the newly chartered Ladies’ Circle Windhoek. Before some reader goes on a rampage about the above paragraph be reminded that the statement in no way makes men inferior.
Women might occasionally believe that but nothing could be further from the truth. The symbiosis of nature and how women and men interact with one another and our God given roles are proof that one cannot exist without the other. So in one way or another we are all codependent beings. On Thursday, the 11th of November, we the men of Round Table were invited to attend the informal Meet and Greet Function for this LCW. In the serene gardens of Droombos just outside Windhoek we witnessed first-hand that these gals are a force to be reckoned with. They already have some projects up and running and we couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with you in the future. It was not only an honour but a real treat to have met ladies from Africa and around the globe who attended this get together. Ladies
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travelled from Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Germany, the Netherlands and Lithuania to name but a few to be a part of this joyous occasion.
Gentlemen, let us applaud this group of fine women and assist them wherever we can as so many ladies have assisted Round Table before. It is our time to give back and invest in them.
The current President of Round Table International, Graham Cornelissen, and his beautiful wife Yvette (herself an integral member of LC too) were also in attendance which strongly underlines the fact that history has been made with the charter of this Ladies’ Circle. After some refreshing mingling and getting to know one another we were treated to delicious pizza whilst a few ladies took it upon themselves have some music playing and dance through the evening. After the event most of us proceeded to Benchwarmers for a nightcap and some friendly conversations with new friends. Ladies and gents alike filled the air with laughter, friendly banter and friendship. Conversations with all alike were wonderful and intriguing and further strengthened our bonds. The LC motto of ‘Friendship and Service’ blends beautifully and wholeheartedly with the ‘Adopt, Adapt, Improve’ motto of Round Table. We wish Tamara-lee in her capacity as first Chairlady of Ladies’ Circle Windhoek and all of her like-minded companions all the best going forward. We have no doubt that LC is an organisation that will further improve the lives of so many in Namibia with the added benefit of creating new and strong bonds of friendship.
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Letters from Tablers
The road to becoming a tabler
Richard C Becker
It all started with Ian Pienaar. My wife, BrunieBecker, who was at that time employed at M+Z Motors, kept on talking about this “Ian” who works at Mahindra Motors recently added to the M+Z group. She told me about this Ladies Circle group that he was suggesting for her to join. At first I was a little sceptical as we just left the “Scouts of Namibia” group after the both of us were put under a lot of strain in running various programs. We wanted to break free to concentrate on starting a family. Since the statement goes “happy wife, happy life” I decided to have her try it out and agreed on her going to attend a meeting. After this meeting she came back all excited and motivated for the plans they discussed there. A little bit curious I listened to the proceedings of the meeting and that was that. She went on 2 more gatherings after that and enjoyed it every time. She then came to me and said that Ian has invited me to join them for a Round Table meeting. Immediately I thought “Round Table?? Really?? Like the Arthurian Legend from England Round Table?? Is it like a dress up club for gentlemen or what?”. I decided I would rather go to a meeting and see what is what before jumping to any further conclusions.
So, I asked my brother-in-law to drop me off at M+Z Motors after work to catch a ride with Ian to this meeting. Since I am a little bit of an introvert, I was afraid to approach most people there, but they immediately greeted me with great enthusiasm and made me feel at ease. As the night progressed I realised it to be a gentlemen's club and that they are trying to help the community for those in need…and that they were legit…unlike so many scamcompanies trying to make a quick buck out of those who don’t know the difference, but create actual change and wellbeing in the community. That is how my journey began. In the meetings they suggested about using funds to support communities in need. I knew immediately that I had someone in mind for this.
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Since my wife and I had already started to assist them in the “scouting” community. As the scouts is a non-profit organisation too I was aware of how tough it would be to raise enough funds to support them with their projects and therefore I reached out to Round Table Windhoek 34. As part of their Winter Knights program they assisted me in buying pillows and blankets for the kids of Children’s Life Change Centre. Big smiles and tears were shed by the caretakers in charge of the kids and it really moved my heart at what this meant to them. After this successful handover I started attending the social meetings of Round Table. Again, this posed a challenge to me as I tend to “weird” out some people when I get too comfortable. The first social I went to was at Philip’s house immediately after the aforementioned handover. We went there along with Ian and Tami and got off to a rocky start. As the day progressed to night time we got more and more comfortable and started socialising more with the tablers and their legs in attendance. We also learned how to play “Knobeln” which I never knew had existed before that night. Now it is one of my favourite games to play with friends. We played a lot of “old” music which brought back many of good memories and we had fun dancing as well. It appeared that Bruni and I made fools out of ourselves when dancing. We enjoyed a couple of drinks and engaged in random conversations. To sum it up: it was a “moerse” lot of fun.
Thereafter I was privileged to attend my very first “hunting boogie” with the gentlemen of 34 and had my first ever “GUYS ONLY” weekend. We went out on the “Uri” where we experienced the “snipers EXCELLENT shooting abilities”. Somehow we broke a few of the beds at the house over the weekend (not sure how that happened since I was buried under half of them), the toilet did unspeakable things and the dam was well…I think Erkies high pitched scream pretty much explained it. Finally, we attended meeting where I received my “tabling’ status and was inducted as a full member during the September business meeting. Our sergeant at arms handing out “straffies” left, right and centre. Got to stand next to Johan Geldenhuys as we were both initiated at the same time. I got my stamp of approval from Erkie, Ian and Round Table Windhoek 34. I struggled to swallow those very “delicious” eggs Philip prepared for us in honour of our induction. I felt pride swelling up inside me as I finally became a part of a movement that I truly believe makes a difference in our community.
Not long after that I was inducted as a “Pipeliner” and afterwards into 34 at a business meeting where we rounded off the evening with a celebratory drink and some “Knobeln”.
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My Personal Love Affair Johan Geldenhuys I have always heard about Round Table but never quite knew what it is about or what the members actually do. My sponsor, Marius Esterhuizen, approached and invited me for a social meeting at Action Arena in January 2021. This is where my love affair with this organisation started. Since my arrival at Windhoek 34 there has only been good fellowship and friendly welcoming all the time. I was hooked at first sight. The brotherhood within RTNAM is based on the principles of the highest respect, not only between the brothers, but also towards their partners and children. The ladies are always considered in the planning process and how it would affect them and that is what makes it so awesome to be a part of this community.
I was fortunate enough to be invited to 2021 Induction Dinner at the Country Club in March. Throughout the evening I met members of Round Table from all across Namibia and not once did I feel left out or as if I didn’t belong there. It has only been a roller coaster ride ever since with great sadness in losing one of our 41ers, Frikkie Engels, and in the same breath great happiness in joining our tablers on the street corners and intersections in collecting funds and blankets for the less fortunate citizens of Namibia for Winter Knights. I have committed and taken part in a couple of handovers and every time it just reminds me in what we stand for in RTNAM. I have been fortunate to open my own business and needless to say, we have only received top shelf support from fellow tablers across Namibia. To end off my report, I would like to thank each and every tabler, their partners and new guests for this amazing experience so far. It is truly an honour to be invited as a fellow tabler and looking forward to bringing my all to the table. Yours in Table
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Issue 10
January, 2022
Feliz Navidad Amigos Mark Kissler It has been a long year, truly. It went by so quickly though and perhaps that is just a good thing. As was mentioned so many times, 2021 was a difficult year. Yet it was also a busy and successful year. As a team, united and brotherly, we had many projects that certainly proved that our organisation is relevant and at the forefront of public welfare. With that in mind let us reflect on some highlights for our table, in no particular order: - We could stand on the intersections again for the annual Winter Knights campaign. - Two fantastic new tablers have been inducted and we are grateful for these brothers to have come into our lives. - The annual Joyful Hearts project was fives times bigger this year whilst only in its second edition. - We avail of a ‘myriad’ of guests attending our meetings, promising individuals that have the potential to lead our organisation soon and grow it further. - The bond between the tablers in our Namibia Area has become stronger than steel. - One of our very own is in the running for Vice Chairman of Namibia Area. The points above are in no way complete nor does every one of us have the same highlights, but it briefly sums up that we can be grateful for what we have.
On Saturday, the 4th of December, our Chairman Ernst made that very clear in his address to the attendees of the 2021 year-end function and Christmas party of Windhoek 34. His words perfectly concluded a very interesting year for us. It was a fun-filled afternoon and evening we all could enjoy with our children and table legs around. We all were given a sport themed genre as determined by this year’s convenor, Richard, to which we had to dress up to. There were cricketeers, paintballers, golfers, tennis players, dirt bike riders and then some. The award for best-dressed by vote went to Richard who dressed up as a karateka. With laughter, cold drinks and some tasty finger food we thoroughly enjoyed our time. The children of Riaan and Marius were also treated to a visit by ‘Santa Claus’. We can all be grateful to have found a family of brothers that is not necessarily related by blood, but bonded together because through the rondel. As the title suggests: Merry Christmas, dearest friends!
WWW.ROUNDTABLE.CO.ZA
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Issue 10
January, 2022
WWW.ROUNDTABLE.CO.ZA
Page 37