Need help with tables!

I'm in the beginning stages of revising my website and tested out a template that relies on tables to give rounded edges to different sections. It's only a dummy look for know, but it isn't working

Check out http://www.CharlotteMLB.com/test.shtml

Notice that on the tops and bottoms of all sections, there are gaps between the table edges, corner graphics, and middle graphics (which is set up as a 15x15 background to allow variable page widths). What did I do wrong in my code?

Also, I set up as 15x15 graphics to be used as repeating background withing the table data cell, which aren't showing up at all. What did I do wrong here?

I know I can column span but that's only if it is constant width. This is only the case for the menu section, but I want the header and the main section to adjust/stretch to the full browser page width. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated, as I need to figure out these "foundation" problems before moving on to the contesnt and eye candy.

Thanks!