Representatives from Boyd Gaming’s 16 major U.S. properties recently gathered at the Orleans for what has become an unusual event—a company-wide talent show.

As companies look for ways to cut corners and increase profit margins—not to mention the rapidly decreasing free time available to the average U.S. worker these days—the little extras like talent shows are being left by the wayside. For Boyd Gaming, however, the talent show is an integral part of what makes the company successful.

Boyd champions its employees, and wants them to feel like they are part of one large extended family. Events like the bi-annual talent show help foster that sense of family, while at the same time giving everyone a chance to let down their hair a little.

That’s exactly what Bill Boyd was thinking 30 years ago when he organized the first talent show at the company’s Downtown Las Vegas properties.

“It’s a wonderful tradition that Mr. Boyd started,” said Howard Jochsberger, who has directed the talent show for the last 22 years. “He’s always said he did it because it’s a night where he can get all the employees together to relax and have fun.”

Boyd, along with company president Keith Smith attend every show at all 16 properties throughout the U.S. leading up to the final event in Las Vegas. The winner from each of those properties win airfare for two to and from Las Vegas, a limo ride to and from McCarran to the Orleans, where, once again, their accommodations are paid for.

They compete for a first place prize that includes $1,000 cash, a week of paid vacation and a trip for two to Hawaii.

“I think it’s awesome,” said Jerry “Gifted” Walker, who was representing Atlantic City’s Borgata at the talent show. “I think it shows that Mr. Boyd cares about his employees enough to have a program like this. Other casinos can only envy Boyd Gaming.”

By Casino Connection Staff

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