Gove club helps many become better speakers and leaders

For 10 years, The Bill Gove Golden Gavel Toastmasters Club has helped several hundred members become more successful in life.

They have become better speakers and leaders. For some, the training has dramatically changed their lives and advanced their careers.

Started as professional club

Professional speakers Ed Lamont and Steve Siebold, both of Boynton Beach, started the nonprofit club. They invited 41 professional speakers to join the club and 40 immediately accepted.

Club members first gathered on Jan. 7, 2000 in a small restaurant in Boynton Beach, Florida. The club was named after Bill Gove (1912-2001), internationally known as the father of professional speaking. He was an active club member. Steve and Bill were business partners in Boynton Beach.

The club was an instant success. Ever since, members have met every non-holiday Friday at noon to 1 p.m. in Boynton Beach, Florida. The Bill Gove Golden Gavel Toastmasters Club is celebrating its 10th anniversary during 2009-2010. Lamont and Siebold continue as active club members.

Members span all skill levels

The club now includes and welcomes members at all communication skill levels. It continues to prosper as members grow in a friendly, informal and fun learning environment.

For three years in a row, Toastmasters International has awarded the club its highest honor — President’s Distinguished Club. Club members regularly advance their skills beyond the club level, placing high in Toastmasters contests and spreading their knowledge in leadership positions. Among area clubs, the Bill Gove Club was a pioneer in video recording member speeches and evaluations and creating a sophisticated, award-winning website.

Sets high standards

Club officers and members continue to set high standards for themselves and the club to mark their first decade of excellence in communications and leadership.