Wiki Category: Customs and Traditions (All)

RTMT4 Ragusa (April Fools)

For April Fools 2025 Round Table Italy and Round Table Malta collaborated for an international prank. On their social they both announced the creation of a new table in Sicily. Since it would have been quite isolated in the island, both associations claimed to charter it under Round Table Malta, because it was the closest association. The image featured the coat of arms and the colours of Sicily and the Maltese Rondel

“After months of close and silent collaboration with our brothers at Round Table Malta, it’s time to unveil the project we’ve been working on!

We are thrilled to present Round Table Malta No. 4 Ragusa, which will be officially chartered on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Villa Matilde.

This marks a milestone in the interaction between the national committees of the SEM area, as Round Table Malta establishes its first foreign table on Italian soil, testifying to the strong bond that has always united Malta and Italy.

Our efforts have not only strengthened the relationship between our associations, but will also extend our charitable mission to Sicily, which has not seen Round Table present in the area for a long time.

We are truly happy for our brothers in Ragusa, who will finally be able to join the Round Table family after being a table in formation for the past year, and our thanks go to our Maltese brothers for contributing to this important chapter in the history of Round Table.

We look forward to welcoming Maltese, Italian, and international brothers to celebrate this special occasion in Modica. Stay tuned for more details!”

original text

Dopo mesi di stretta e silenziosa collaborazione con i nostri fratelli di Round Table Malta🔗, è tempo di svelare il progetto su cui stavamo lavorando!

Siamo entusiasti di presentare Round Table Malta No. 4 Ragusa, che verrà ufficialmente chartata sabato 7 giugno 2025 a Villa Matilde (Modica)

Questo segna una pietra miliare nell’interazione tra i comitati nazionali dell’area SEM poiché Round Table Malta fonda la prima tavola straniera su territorio italiano, a testimonianza del grande legame che unisce da sempre Malta e Italia.

I nostri sforzi non solo hanno rafforzato i rapporti tra le nostre associazioni, ma estenderanno anche la nostra missione benefica alla Sicilia che da lungo tempo non vedeva Round Table presente sul territorio.

Siamo davvero felici per i nostri fratelli di Ragusa che potranno finalmente entrare nella grande famiglia di Round Table dopo esser stata tavola in formazione per tutto lo scorso anno, ed il nostro ringraziamento va ai fratelli maltesi per aver contribuito a questo importante capitolo della storia di Round Table.

Non vediamo l’ora di accogliere fratelli maltesi, italiani e internazionali per celebrare questa occasione speciale a Modica. Restate sintonizzati per maggiori dettagli!

The prank was so successful, that multiple inquires were made about how to join the new club or how it would be possible to have a Maltese club on Italian soil, that the April fools was revealed only a few hours later.

Bereavement Fund (RTNO)

Association: Round Table Norway
Category: Orphan or Bereavement Funds

Round Table Norway operates a formal Bereavement Fund, established to provide rapid financial assistance to the family of a member in the event of death — whether it is the member, the partner (spouse or cohabitant), or a legal child. Payments are made promptly, typically within one week of confirmation, with standard amounts linked to Norway’s National Insurance base amount (0.5 G for a member or partner, and 0.3 G for a child). The RTN Central Board administers the fund and determines the beneficiary.

The fund maintains a minimum balance of 1.2 G, and when payouts reduce it below that threshold, an equal contribution per member is collected and invoiced to clubs to restore the fund. Investment returns remain part of the fund, ensuring sustainable long-term support. This structure provides swift and reliable financial help to families while maintaining strong financial governance.

The following is a translated extract of the statute for the RTNO BEREAVEMENT FUND.
Note: that the current version might have been updated, and the following is published for general information only.

STATUTES FOR ROUND TABLE NORWAY’S BEREAVEMENT FUND

Adopted at the national meeting in 2000. Amended at the national meetings in 2018, 2023, and 2024.

§1 – NAME/PURPOSE
Round Table Norway’s Bereavement Fund. The purpose of the fund is to provide prompt financial assistance to the bereaved family if a member dies, or if a member’s partner or legal child dies, regardless of the cause of death. A partner is defined as a spouse or cohabitant. The fund may not be used for any other purpose.

§2 – RECIPIENTS OF PAYMENTS
The bereaved of a paying member of RTN, through one of RTN’s local clubs, may receive a payment from the fund. A paying member is defined as anyone listed in the membership register as an active member, bonus member, or on leave.

§3 – PAYMENTS FROM THE FUND
If a member, the member’s partner, or the member’s child dies, the fund’s board must be notified as soon as possible, preferably by the member’s club chairman or district chairman. The board must then ensure reliable confirmation that the situation is genuine, though no formal documentation is required. Once it is confirmed that a payment will be made, the board must strive for prompt disbursement, no later than one week after the decision. The standard payment is 0.5 G (the National Insurance base amount) for a member or member’s partner, and 0.3 G for a member’s child per death. If multiple payments are needed simultaneously, the board may, at its discretion, reduce the amounts so that the total does not exceed the fund’s balance. If payments are made by partners, the board may reduce the fund’s payment to a minimum of 0.25 G. The total payment from RTN and partners must be at least 0.5 G for a member or partner, and 0.3 G for a member’s child. The board decides the recipient of the fund payment, but the usual order of priority is: spouse, own children, cohabitant, parents, siblings.

§4 – THE FUND’S BOARD
The current central board of RTN shall serve as the fund’s board. The board’s decisions cannot be overruled by other RTN bodies, provided they do not conflict with the fund’s statutes. The board is required to submit an annual report and accounts to the national meeting. The current auditor of RTN shall audit the accounts.

§5 – FUNDING AND SIZE OF THE FUND
The amount paid into the fund shall be deposited in the fund’s bank account. Any accrued returns belong to the fund. The fund must at all times amount to a minimum of 1.2 G. The board has the right and duty to collect an amount per member sufficient to restore the fund to the minimum size of 1.2 G if necessary due to payouts. The total amount is divided among the members of Round Table Norway, and invoices are sent to clubs based on membership numbers. Clubs may choose to cover the amount from their treasury or collect it from their members.

§6 – AMENDMENTS TO THE STATUTES
These statutes may be amended according to the current RTN rules for statute amendment proposals.

§7 – DISSOLUTION
The fund may only be dissolved according to the current RTN rules for statute amendment proposals. If the fund is dissolved, the same national meeting that decided on the dissolution shall, by simple majority, determine how any remaining funds are to be used. A proposal for the use of the funds must be submitted along with the dissolution proposal.

Home Hosting

Home Hosting is a long standing tradition within Round Table International and its national associations. It describes the practice of members, offering accommodation and personal support to fellow Tablers who are travelling. The concept is rooted in the organisation’s motto “Adopt, Adapt, Improve” and in the belief that friendship across borders is strengthened through personal encounters and shared daily life.

Often when Tablers travel abroad to visit other Round Tables, for example during a Numbers Meeting, Area Meeting, AGM, or other international event, they are welcomed to stay in the homes of local Tablers rather than in hotels. In doing so, hosts open their private environment to their guests. Visitors become part of everyday family life, experience local customs firsthand, and gain insight into cultural habits that would otherwise remain hidden from ordinary tourism. For many members, Home Hosting represents the most authentic way to experience international fellowship.

Beyond Official Events

Home Hosting is not limited to official gatherings. It frequently takes place during private holidays, business trips, local or regional exchange programs, or even short stopovers lasting only a single day or night. A travelling Tabler may contact a local Table in advance, often through friends, the clubs IRO or via tabler.world contact and ask whether someone is available to host him. In many cases, accommodation is arranged quickly and informally.

It is also common for Tablers to visit one another’s regular Table meetings. Guests are often invited to attend a local meeting night, social event, or service activity. This allows them to experience how Round Table culture is lived in another country or city. In this sense, Home Hosting strengthens not only personal friendships but also the organisational understanding between Tables and associations.

Trust and the Role of the Table

A central element of Home Hosting is trust. Membership in Round Table implies a shared code of conduct and common values. When a Tabler is introduced by his home Table and his Table Godfather, he is considered trustworthy within the international network. This system of mutual endorsement creates a high level of confidence between individuals who may never have met before.

In practice, this trust can be remarkable. It is not unusual for a host to provide a house key and simply say “help yourself, i can not be in the region tonight”, especially if work or family commitments prevent constant company. The guest is treated as a friend rather than a stranger. The understanding is that the same hospitality would be offered in return if roles were reversed.

Simplicity and Informality

Home Hosting is intentionally uncomplicated. Tablers are generally not demanding guests. Most are accustomed to simple arrangements such as sleeping on a couch, an inflatable mattress, or even on a sleeping mat with a sleeping bag. Comfort is secondary to companionship. Entertainment programs are not required. Guests are typically self sufficient, explore independently if necessary, and are grateful for any time their host can share.

Likewise, small host gifts are customary but not mandatory. Visitors often bring a token from their home region or country as a gesture of appreciation. The focus, however, remains on personal interaction rather than material exchange.

Opening Doors

An important aspect of Home Hosting is the access it can provide. Through professional and social networks, local Tablers may open doors that are not normally accessible to the public. This can include private clubs, bars, company facilities, historical buildings, cultural institutions, or other special venues within a city. Such experiences transform a simple visit into a unique and memorable encounter.

Hosts frequently take pride in presenting their region. This may involve explaining local history, sharing traditions, visiting landmarks, or introducing regional cuisine. In many cases, spontaneous activities arise from personal interests and connections rather than formal planning.

Cultural Exchange and Long Term Impact

Beyond accommodation, Home Hosting functions as a tool of cultural exchange. By living together, even briefly, Tablers gain deeper understanding of different lifestyles, social systems, and traditions. Misconceptions are reduced, and long term international friendships are formed. Many enduring cross border partnerships between Tables have originated from simple hosting arrangements.

In this way, Home Hosting embodies one of the fundamental principles of Round Table International: fellowship without borders. It transforms travel into a personal experience based on mutual respect, responsibility, and openness. What begins as an offer of a couch or spare room often develops into lasting friendship and a strengthened international network.

As a Host

Do not worry about hosting unfamiliar people.
It might seem daunting to have unfamiliar people staying at your home. There is no need to worry. Tablers are friends you have not yet met. They are grateful for your hospitality and will often ask if they can help.

Trust the spirit of Round Table.
Do not worry. Tablers appreciate your willingness to host and understand that they are guests in your private home.

Host more than one guest if possible.
If possible and or if the visiting Tabler is hosted during an event, host more than one guest, ideally from different countries or Tables. They can keep each other company when you are busy and enrich the international exchange.

Keep accommodation simple.
Simple sleeping arrangements are perfectly acceptable. A couch, air mattress, or sleeping mat is more than enough. Comfort is secondary to fellowship.

Accept and encourage help.
Accept help, for example with cooking or cleaning. Sharing responsibilities makes hosting easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

Communicate expectations clearly.
Briefly explain house rules, daily routines, and practical details such as keys, schedules, or transportation. Clear communication avoids misunderstandings.

Share your region and culture.
If time allows, show your guest something about your region, its history, or local activities. Even a short walk through your neighborhood can create meaningful memories.

Integrate your guest into your daily life.
You do not need to create a special entertainment program. Let your guest join your normal routine, whether it is a family dinner, sports activity, or meeting friends.

Invite them to a Table meeting if possible.
Hosting offers a great opportunity for your guest to attend a local Table meeting or social event and experience your Table culture firsthand.

Focus on friendship, not perfection.
Your home does not need to be perfect. Authenticity and openness matter more than presentation. The goal is shared time and strengthened international friendship.

Tips for Guests

Understand your responsibility as a guest.
Being a guest in a private home comes with responsibility. Respect and gratitude are essential.

Show genuine gratitude.
Be grateful. Your host is doing his best to provide a pleasant and memorable stay. A sincere thank you and honest appreciation always matter.

Respect the private space.
Be respectful. You are in someone’s private home. Treat rooms, belongings, and shared spaces with care and discretion.

Offer your support.
Offer help whenever possible, whether with cooking, setting the table, cleaning up, or small daily tasks. Even small gestures are appreciated.

Bring a small token of appreciation.
Bringing a small gift from your region or country is customary and appreciated, though not mandatory. It is a thoughtful way to say thank you.

Be flexible and adaptable.
Adapt to the host’s routine and be flexible. Every household has its own rhythm, schedules, and habits.

Communicate clearly.
Keep your host informed about arrival times, dietary preferences, travel plans, or any changes. Open communication prevents misunderstandings.

Be low maintenance.
Tablers are known for being uncomplicated guests. Be comfortable with simple sleeping arrangements and do not expect special entertainment.

Represent your Table well.
Remember that you are an ambassador of your home Table and of Round Table International. Your behavior reflects on the wider network of friendship.

Value the experience.
Home hosting reflects one of the core values of Round Table: friendship across borders. It strengthens international bonds, builds lifelong connections, and turns travel into a deeply personal and meaningful experience.

Motoraduno Nazionale (RTIT)

The Motoraduno Nazionale is one of the most beloved traditions of Round Table Italy (#RTIT) — an annual motorcycle rally that brings together members from across Italy (and beyond) for a weekend of riding, friendship, and discovery.

Each year, a different Italian Table hosts the event, offering participants a unique experience rooted in local culture, scenic routes, and Italian hospitality. The program typically spans three days in late May, featuring group rides, regional cuisine, and visits to local landmarks, all organized with the signature spirit of camaraderie that defines the Round Table movement.

More than just a ride, the Motoraduno is a celebration of shared values, lifelong connections, and the joy of exploring Italy on two wheels.

Poster for the 39th edition 

Sort this list. Make it in point form. Make the name of the clubs in the format: RTIT 7 Bologna. Invert the order

List of Hosting Tables

The Table Grace

Table Grace is a prayer that some Associations use before Round Table functions at which members sit down to eat. The existence of this Table grace is somewhat unusual, given that the movement is non-religious.

The prayer is based on the Round Table motto of Adopt, Adapt, Improve:

“May we, O Lord, Adopt Thy Creed,
Adapt our ways to meet Thy Need
And we, who on Thy bounty feed,
Improve in thought and word and deed.”

Borrowing, Raiding or Securing objects

Customs and Traditions

In Round Table culture, borrowing is a friendly and long-standing tradition where one Table or Tabler temporarily takes a piece of regalia from another table as part of fellowship and inter-table interaction. It is sometimes referred to by different terms, including “Raiding” or “Securing” items. It is intended to be playful rather than confrontational. The purpose is to strengthen relationships, encourage visits, and build camaraderie across an association or internationally.

In practice, raiding usually happens when a table visits another. The visiting table may take a single movable item of regalia, provided it is not restricted by agreed rules. Once an item has been taken, it becomes the responsibility of the raiding table or tabler, who are expected to safeguard it and, where required, ensure it until it is reclaimed.

Raiding exists to promote fellowship, brotherhood, and active engagement between tables. It is not theft, vandalism, or punishment, nor is it meant to cause embarrassment or financial loss. When carried out in the right spirit and within agreed guidelines, raiding remains a light-hearted tradition that reinforces the social fabric and shared culture of Round Table.

Excluded Items

Items such as a President’s or Chairman’s jewel, a gavel, the club charter, personal or sensitive objects, anything that is bolted down, part of a permanent structure, or anything of excessive value are never considered acceptable to raid.

Recovering the Objects

Once an object has been raided, a ransom note needs to be presented within 24 hours with the required terms. Ransom notes would include a photo, a proposal for reclaiming the item, and sometimes a witty narrative about how the item was left alone to be saved,

The only recognised way for a table to recover its raided regalia is to raid the table that took it. This reciprocal action is a core part of the tradition and ensures ongoing interaction between tables. Clear procedures are normally in place so that association officers are informed, records are kept, and items are returned within a reasonable timeframe, often linked to the association’s AGM if a reclaim has not yet occurred.

Recommended Guidelines

The guidelines are suggested only and should be tailored by each association BEFORE being
adopted.

Raiding items between tables encourages fellowship and the growth of relationships between them, and it must always occur in the spirit of brotherhood.

    1. The raiding Table can only raid one piece of regalia. The following items are un-raidable
        • The President’s / Chairman’s Jewel,
        • Gavel,
        • Club Charter,
        • Items of excessive value
        • Items locked or stored in personal bags, suitcases or something similar; or
        • Items of a sensitive nature
        • Any item that is personal nature such as a medal pinned in a jacket or an honour medal
    2. Only movable items are raidable, and should any items be screwed down, mounted or bolted in position, they will be deemed immovable and, therefore, unreadable.
    3. Any raiding item becomes the raiding Table’s responsibility and must be covered by the raiding Table’s insurance. Should the raided item be damaged, lost, or stolen while in the Table’s possession, the regalia must be repaired, replaced, or paid for by the raiding Table. If an item value is not established, the Association’s President will have sole discretion regarding the value to be paid for the ’replacement’ of the regalia.
    4. Should an item be raided, the raiding table needs to notify the raided Table members immediately for “release”. Should the raided Table not “release” the item, the Association Secretary must be informed as to what has been raided by no later than 3 (three) days after the raid. The Association Secretary will keep a register of all items raided. Once the raided item is collected, the Table collecting its raided item must notify the Association Secretary that the item has been collected.
    5. It is the responsibility of the raided Table to raid the raiding Table to reclaim their regalia. Any suitably authorised members in a quorum of the Table can reclaim this. Any other Table cannot raid raided items from within the membership of Round Table.
    6. Any raided items raided more than three months prior and not reclaimed before the Association AGM shall be handed over to the raided table at the Association AGM. If the Table does not return raided items, as set out above, or does not make sufficient effort to reclaim its regalia, it will be considered in contravention of the spirit of raiding.
    7. A suitable fine or forfeit. will be administered to the offending table at the sole discretion of the Association President. This punishment should be light-hearted in nature and should be given at the Association AGM.

Rondel Friday

#RONDELFRIDAY

More on Rondels:

Rondel Friday is a weekly celebration, normally on social media. It’s not an official holiday but a fun, recurring club culture event — much like “Throwback Thursday”  but for Round Table members.

This is a weekly custom where, during the day, members post pictures of themselves wearing, showing off, or doing something creative with their rondel. This is a fun way to promote camaraderie, club visibility, and global connection among Tablers.

The earliest reference to Rondel Friday comes from Round Table Southern Africa in 2017. The initiative was adopted by RTI in 2018, and has since gained a life of its own.

 

Round Table Day

Round Table Day is an annual traditional celebration observed by Round Table members worldwide to honor the founding principles and history of the organization. It is typically celebrated on or around March 14, marking the official launch of the first Round Table club, Round Table No. 1 Norwich, in 1927.

What Happens on Round Table Day?

    • Commemorative Events – Members reflect on the organization’s history and achievements.
    • Service Activities – Clubs often engage in charity work, community projects, and fundraising efforts.
    • Fellowship Gatherings – Local, national, and international meetings strengthen bonds among members.
    • Awareness Campaigns – The day is used to promote the values of “Adopt – Adapt – Improve”, inspiring young professionals to join.

Why is Round Table Day Important?

    • It celebrates Louis Marchesi’s vision of a club for young businesspeople focused on community service and personal growth.
    • It reinforces the global impact of Round Table, which now spans dozens of countries.
    • It encourages youth participation in leadership, networking, and philanthropy.

Association Celebrations:

Round Table Great Britain & Ireland

    • Historic Gatherings – Some clubs visit Norwich, where the first Round Table was founded, to pay tribute to Louis Marchesi.
    • Charity Challenges – Fundraising through marathons, auctions, and “Tablers on Tour” events.
    • National Fellowship Meetings – Tablers across the UK and Ireland meet for a special Round Table toast and networking.

Round Table Germany

    • “Service Day” Projects – Members engage in large-scale social impact initiatives, such as supporting homeless shelters and children’s hospitals.
    • RT Symbol Displays – Some clubs set up Round Table banners and exhibits in city centers to raise awareness.
    • “RT Stammtisch” Gatherings – Traditional German-style meetups at pubs or event halls for speeches, drinks, and networking.

Round Table The Netherlands

    • Mass Fundraising Events – Many clubs hold their biggest annual fundraisers on Round Table Day, including charity auctions and bike rides.
    • Adopt-A-Charity – Local tables pick a cause for the year and kick off their support with a special donation or volunteer drive.
    • “Orange Table” Tribute – Inspired by the Dutch national color, members wear orange-themed attire in honor of Round Table’s impact.

Round Table Suomi Finland

    • Winter Charity Drives – Due to Finland’s cold March weather, many clubs distribute warm clothing, food, and aid to those in need.
    • Ice Dips for Charity – Brave Tablers take a plunge into freezing lakes to raise funds for local charities!
    • Tabler Feasts – Traditional Finnish-style dinners with speeches, often featuring smoked fish, rye bread, and local delicacies.

Round Table Denmark

    • Round Table Flags – Some Danish cities raise RT banners in public places to spread awareness.
    • Leadership Talks – Panels featuring business and community leaders to inspire young professionals.
    • “Hygge” Celebrations – Many clubs host casual, cozy gatherings with Danish-style socializing over drinks and food.

Round Table India

    • Massive Charity Projects – India’s RT clubs use Round Table Day for some of their biggest social initiatives, such as:
      • Building schools and infrastructure for underprivileged communities.
      • Blood donation and health check-up camps.
      • Food and book distribution drives.
    • Tabler Processions & Public Awareness Rallies – Members take to the streets in large groups, waving RT flags and promoting community service.

Round Table Southern Africa

    • Adventure Fundraising – Many South African clubs organize hiking, skydiving, and extreme sports challenges for charity.
    • Round Table Braai (BBQ) Gatherings – A true South African celebration isn’t complete without a braai, where Tablers enjoy good food and fellowship.
    • Youth Mentorship & Business Talks – Members visit schools and universities to encourage leadership and entrepreneurship among young people.

Round Table Belgium

    • Gala Dinners & Charity Balls – Many clubs organize black-tie events to raise funds and celebrate their contributions.
    • Heritage Talks – Members share stories from Round Table’s past, reinforcing the legacy of Louis Marchesi.
    • European Networking – Since Belgium is central to many RT international connections, clubs often host multi-country meetups.

Round Table France

    • Wine & Dine Fundraisers – Clubs use Round Table Day to host wine tastings and fine dining events for charity.
    • Community Clean-up Campaigns – Tablers organize volunteer drives to clean parks, beaches, and public spaces.
    • Torchlight Processions – Some regions hold evening walks with torches to symbolize the guiding light of Round Table’s values.

Round Table Norway

    • Mountain Hikes for Charity – Many clubs embark on charity treks in Norway’s breathtaking landscapes.
    • Fjord-Side Gatherings – Some meetings take place in coastal areas to reflect on the club’s history and future.
    • RT History Exhibits – Museums and community centers sometimes feature displays on Round Table’s legacy.

Other International Traditions

Sergeant at Arms

Sergeant about to pounce

The Sergeant at Arms or Master at Arms, is a key role within the organization, typically responsible for maintaining order and ensuring that meetings run smoothly and in accordance with traditions. The role may include the following duties:

    • Maintaining Meeting Discipline: Ensuring that discussions remain orderly and that all members follow established protocols.
    • Timekeeping: Managing the timing of speeches, discussions, and agenda items.
    • Fines and Fun Activities: Often, the Sergeant at Arms has a lighthearted role in imposing humorous fines or penalties for minor breaches of etiquette, contributing to the camaraderie and enjoyment of meetings.
    • Logistics and Security: Assisting with the setup of meeting venues and ensuring that everything is in place for smooth operations.
    • Enforcing Traditions: Upholding the customs, values, and ceremonial aspects of Round Table meetings.

The Sergeant at Arms is often seen as the enforcer of rules while also playing a key role in fostering a friendly and engaging atmosphere within the club or during general meetings.

Association specific customs