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Laundry Moving q&a with THE BOYD In YOUR Professional PERCS Clean 50 YEARS of Poker Career of Becomes and OsmondS Community ill the What’s Your Story? photo album oyd WORDS Champ Development YEAR Boyd Benefits Green UP at B Page 2 Page 3 Page 2 Page 4 Page 4 Fold out Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 4 Page 2 Employee News Company News

“ Today’s groundbreaking marks an important milestone Make Way for in one of the most exciting and ambitious developments on the Strip.” Bill Boyd - Chairman and CEO Echelon Current Echelon Aerial Rendering When it comes to Echelon, everything is a step above ordinary

The Company also unveiled previously unseen Bill Boyd, Chairman and Chief Executive Bob added, “We are creating a destination resort renderings and re-emphasized the overall Officer, Keith Smith, President and Chief that will be seen for miles, and yet, be accessible vision for the development. Operating Officer, and Bob Boughner, within feet. With Echelon, we are making the President and Chief Executive Officer of most of our extraordinary and highly-visible Las Echelon will span 87 acres, including 22 acres Echelon Resorts, joined other top company Vegas Strip site by building five with world available for future development. It will include Even its formal commencement of construction executives and executives from our strategic class amenities, in one dramatic phase.” five distinct hotels, an extensive array of ceremony in June eschewed the standing-in- partners – Morgans Group, Shangri-La dining, nightlife, shopping and entertainment the-sun, shovels-into-a-pile-of-dirt tradition. Hotels and Resorts, AEG Live and General experiences, and more than 750,000 square Instead, more than 300 guests were sheltered Growth Properties – at the special ceremony. feet of meeting and convention space. from 100-degree temperatures inside an As such, Echelon will cater to high-end “Today’s groundbreaking marks an important expansive air-conditioned tent on the Echelon vacationers and the growing market for milestone in one of the most exciting and site, while construction officials shattered a convention visitors. According to industry ambitious developments on the Strip,” Bill sheet of black glass that hid a 1,000-pound statistics, vacationers seeking luxury said at the ceremony. “As our anticipation for Echelon cornerstone. experiences are currently underserved in Echelon continues to grow, we are pleased , while convention to share more of our vision, which integrates visitors have increased at twice the thoughtful master planning, innovative design

rate of leisure visitors since 1990. and industry leading hotels and partners, which Giovanni Angelini, CEO and Managing Director, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts - Robert Michaels, President and COO, General Growth Properties - Bob Boughner, President together will elevate the Las Vegas experience.” and CEO, Echelon Resorts - Marc Gordon, CIO and Executive VP of Capital Markets, Morgans Hotel Group

Revealing of Echelon Cornerstone during Commencement of Construction Ceremony Bill Boyd - Chairman and CEO Keith Smith - President and COO Bob Boughner, President and John Meglen - President and John Lin - VP Development, Sid Vaikunta - Senior VP CEO, Echelon Resorts Co-CEO, Concerts West/AEG Live Echelon Resorts Operations and Marketing, Echelon Resorts

Boyd Gaming Wins 210 “Best of Gaming” Awards Borgata “Tops Off” Water Club The Water Club at Borgata was “topped off” in July, Winning accolades from customers across the country, a symbolic phase of construction that marks the final properties received 210 awards in Casino Player magazine’s 2007 “Best of countdown for the project’s grand opening prior to the Gaming” edition. Nearly half were first-place awards. The company posted summer season of 2008. The event was attended by particularly strong performances in the Atlantic City, Las Vegas Locals, Las more than 400 Boyd Gaming executives, Borgata The element of water will introduce the notion of vitality Vegas Downtown and Shreveport-Bossier City markets. associates, city and state officials, construction and set the overall aesthetic tone. Intriguing design materials fuse clean, elegant lines with soothing water In Atlantic City, “Borgata continues its uninterrupted reign as the Best Overall workers, and media representatives. features. Limestone columns, Italian blown-glass Hotel Casino in town,” according to the magazine. The property received awards Conceived as an exclusive extension to the in 46 of 58 categories and finished first in chandeliers, and plush handmade rugs punctuated sophisticated, international style that already 31 categories. by rich, splashes of color are interwoven with several defines Borgata, The Water Club will offer a serene cascading water features. In Shreveport, Sam’s Town dominated cosmopolitan setting – blending high design and the market with 35 awards in 39 modern amenities within an intimate and highly- “The anticipation is certainly building,” categories, including 13 first-place nods personalized guest experience. It will feature 800 finely- appointed guestrooms and suites with five tiers of said Borgata President Larry Mullin. Other notable performances were accommodations; a two-story “spa in the sky;” 18,000 “It was great to have so many of our posted by Sam’s Town Las Vegas and square feet of meeting space; three Residences The Orleans, which dominated the Las associates turn out for the topping off modeled after chic, urban lofts; and six retail shops. Vegas Locals market, earning 30 awards ceremony and share in the excitement.” and 27 awards, respectively. Main Street Station garnered 24 awards in the The hotel’s lobby lounge, The Sunroom, will offer a market. central view of one of two outdoor heated pools, “Each award received in this competition is a great honor, as it represents the inspired by the design and experience of Miami’s voice of casino customers from coast to coast,” said Keith Smith, President and South Beach. A perfect setting for sunning and Chief Operating Officer of Boyd Gaming. “Our strong performance is a tribute socializing, the Brazilian Ipé wooden deck will feature not only to the quality of our properties, but also to the tireless efforts of our sand and cabanas, overlooking a 400-jet Infinity-edge employees. You are the ones who make Boyd Gaming properties the ‘Best in Jacuzzi pool. The hotel’s two indoor pools will be set Gaming,’ and these awards truly belong to you.” amidst lush live landscaping, large bamboo stalks, and natural light, evoking the feeling of an outdoor setting.

Blue Chip was recognized in Northwest Indiana Business ? Quarterly’s “Best of Business” annual reader’s survey. U KNOW DID YO The property was named a runner-up for best meeting site and best convention site in Michigan City. & Laundry Facility to q a with be Clean and Green ill Construction is nearly complete for a full-service Boyd Gaming oyd laundry facility on the Boulder Strip – just south of Sam’s Town – B which will serve all of our Las Vegas properties beginning this fall. q. A major announcement This facility will not only improve operating efficiency among our properties, it will make a was made back in July of this significant environmental contribution to the community. It is a candidate for LEED Silver year stating that you will assume Certification, pending final review, and we hope it will set an example for our industry the position of Executive and others that operate similar facilities. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental ™ is the nationally accepted benchmark for Chairman and that Keith Smith Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System will become Chief Executive the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. Officer on January 1, 2008. Please tell us how you view this change? The 100,000-square- Natural enzyme-based Approximately 75 percent Environmentally foot facility will employ detergents will be gentler of the water used will be a. Well, this change is approximately 70 people on the environment than recycled, saving millions positive on many levels. and will handle chemical-based products, of gallons each year. Contrary to what some may -friendly aspects approximately 50,000 emitting fewer toxins in have been led to believe, this is pounds of laundry per day waste water. not a retirement by any stretch of the new laundry initially. When Echelon of the imagination. It is merely opens, the facility will Specially-selected Local Boyd Gaming a realignment of responsibilities. facility include: reach maximum capacity detergents will allow employees are I will continue to maintain my encouraged to recycle position as Executive Chair of of about 200,000 pounds for lower-temperature wire clothes hangers by our Board of Directors and as of laundry per day. washing, conserving a member of our Management significant energy on donating them to the Committee. While I will remain water heating. facility, reducing waste intrinsically involved with the that would otherwise end strategic vision and direction of up in local landfills. the Company, I will be able to turn my attention to the most important elements of our business – our employees and our guests. This has always been the part of my job I have Career Development Responsible Gaming: In Your Words cherished the most, but as our Two Boyd Gaming employees from Par-A-Dice were among help, they will need understanding, and without education, Company has continued to Creates Opportunity just 15 individuals whose essays were published in the there is no understanding.” grow, my ability to interact with soft-cover book In Their Own Words: Voices of Par-A-Dice Employee Relations Manager Jennifer Sharp also both groups on a consistent Responsible Gaming. The essays were selected from touched on this important concept in her essay, as well. basis has been compromised. more than 100 submissions in the American Gaming Now, come the start of the new Association’s (AGA) Responsible Gaming Poster and Essay “Education leads to understanding. Understanding year, I look forward to being able Contest last spring. The contest was held to commemorate empowers one to recognize key indicators of compulsive to learn from you and our guests the 10th anniversary of gambling. Empowerment becomes an opportunity to in order to make our customer Responsible Gaming Education change a life,” she wrote. “I consider service and working environment Week (RGEW) in August. Boyd Gaming my company, and being the best they can be. a stakeholder, I feel a responsibility to “The number and quality of my fellow team members, guests and responses are evidence of the I have the utmost confidence community to recognize the symptoms of effectiveness of the industry’s in Keith’s abilities and know Congratulations to Borgata’s Upward Mobility program graduating class for 2007. problem gambling.” efforts to educate employees that he will capably lead us about the importance of The contest and book support the into the future. His 25 years Upward Mobility is an responsible gaming,” said Frank overall purpose of RGEW, which is of experience in the industry exciting career Fahrenkopf, Jr., President and to engage employees at all levels in – 17 with Boyd Gaming – have development program CEO of the AGA. “Employees education and awareness programs on enabled him to hone both his for Borgata associates. are at the heart of responsible compulsive gambling and responsible understanding of our business gaming education and this gaming practices. and his leadership skills which It is designed to identify 20 highly-motivated hourly contest has allowed them to be are essential elements to take and salaried professionals to attend a 20-week basic All of Boyd Gaming’s properties at the heart of RGEW, as well.” the Company to the next level. management skills development program. participate in RGEW each year through With nearly two decades at The book includes a variety of creative activities and Boyd Gaming, Keith thoroughly The Borgata associates selected have consistently perspectives from casino programs. For example, at Borgata this understands and supports the displayed a high level of performance and positive employees from across the country, as well as insights from year, associates attended informational sessions on three- Company’s culture and realizes behaviors indicative of the “One Borgata Way” gaming regulators, addiction researchers and treatment card poker, slots and the “Big Six” wheel that included that it is what sets us apart from culture. The program is run by Borgata’s professionals. It was published by the National Center for information on how the games operate and how individuals our competitors. I simply training team. Responsible Gaming (NCRG). The book also featured an can become addicted to them. The property’s Employee cannot overstate the importance essay by Boyd Gaming Chairman and CEO Bill Boyd, a Assistance Program also was on hand to distribute of having someone in the Chief In 2007, the Upward Mobility program graduated 29 founding member and longtime supporter of NCRG. brochures on responsible gaming and facilitate one-on-one Executive Officer position that confidential appointments. Borgata associates. Of those graduates, 11 have been Education and understanding came through as a central lives our Company’s values on a promoted into supervisory or management positions. theme in the publication. In her essay, Par-A-Dice Risk daily basis and Keith embodies (See the “Moving Up” profiles in this issue for one Manager Teresa Tiarks wrote, “Once someone asks for that ideal. example!) The next program begins October 2007. q. Our Chief Financial Officer Paul Chakmak was appointed to succeed Keith as our Chief Operating Officer. Tell us a little In a Word… about Paul. Diversity Update By Marianne Johnson ID YO U KNOW? Paul joined the Company a. What word best describes diversity at Boyd repeated many times. “Important element for continued in 2004 as Senior Vice President of Finance and Treasurer. Upon Gaming? Ask a thousand different employees, success,” wrote one employee from The Orleans. “This D and you will likely get a thousand different is a benefit to help meet communication needs with our the retirement of our Chief As part of Financial Officer, Ellis Landau, answers. Or will you? customers,” wrote another from Gold Coast. our diversity in 2006, Paul was promoted to The second idea that seemed to come through in the initiatives, Executive Vice President and In a recent Employee Opinion Survey Boyd Gaming Chief Financial Officer. Prior encompassing more than a dozen properties, feedback is that our efforts remain a work-in-progress. sponsored to joining Boyd Gaming, Paul we posed that exact question. While few used Comments such as “evolving”, “continuous” and “learning three minority served as a senior member journalism the same single word to describe diversity experience” confirm that we are all still learning how to of CIBC World Markets’ West best foster and make the most of diversity at Boyd associations’ Coast Leveraged Finance at Boyd Gaming (and some used more than just one word to express annual Gaming. While many employees noted there is a good Group. While at CIBC, he led their thoughts), there appeared to be a certain consistency in the mindset Conventions in the firm’s debt origination and among employees. The responses were enlightening. They show how our mix of ethnicity and age at the Company, several also 2007; the National Association structuring group for several efforts are creating success, and they show how much more work we have identified areas where they felt diversity was lacking of Hispanic business sectors including yet to do. – such as in hiring people with disabilities and in gaming, lodging and leisure. Journalists, management overall. the National Association of Paul has quickly established Two key sentiments seemed to run through the feedback comments. We appreciate your feedback and promise to put it to Black Journalists, himself as a valuable member of good use as we continue to learn and enhance our and the National our senior management team and One is the idea that Boyd Gaming truly is a diverse organization and that efforts. One employee wrote diversity Lesbian and his experience with our Company such diversity is being embraced. Comments such as “acceptance”, Gay Journalists and our industry make him “welcome”, “opportunity”, “melting pot”, “friendly” and “very good” were “reaches all people.” That is certainly one of the goals Association. perfectly suited to assume the to which we aspire in all of our initiatives. Chief Operating Officer position. Boyd Employee is World Southern Sports Hall of Series of Poker Champ Fame Honors Boyd Family

The Boyd family was inducted into the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame (SNSHF) in June. SNSHF is a nonprofit organization committed to recognizing the outstanding achievements by Southern Nevada athletes and community leaders in the world of sports.

The Boyd family was honored for their many contributions to local sports and the community in general. The family has strong ties to the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), and in 1984 made a $1.5 million contribution for improvement of the Silver Bowl football stadium (which was renamed Stadium). Other sports-related contributions include sponsorship of the Sam’s Town 300 NASCAR Busch Series race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and the Aviation Nation Air Show at Nellis Air Force Base. The Hall of Fame also noted that Boyd Gaming owns the , which is home to the East Coast Hockey League’s , the Arena Football League’s Las Vegas Gladiators, and many other entertainment and sports events.

Additional inductees of the Hall of Fame for 2007 include Bob Blum, dubbed the Godfather of sports broadcasting in Southern Nevada; Tina Kunzer-Murphy, a long-time leader in the UNLV athletic department; Mike Pritchard, who had an accomplished athletic career with the National Football League; and the 1983 Frederick “Eric” Narciso, a dealer at The Las Vegas Stars, the Triple-A baseball team that played in the inaugural Pacific Coast League season. Orleans, turned $10 into a poker championship, capturing the 2007 World Series of Poker (WSOP) The induction ceremony was hosted in June at the Orleans Arena. Casino Employee No-Limit Hold ‘em Event at the Rio. The championship earned him a coveted WSOP bracelet and more than $100,000 in cash.

Eric won his seat in the WSOP event through the annual Boyd Gaming Casino Employee satellite tournament, held at the Gold Coast; the satellite tournament had a $10 initial buy-in.

“All of us at the Gold Coast poker room are ecstatic to finally produce a WSOP champion from our employee Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame Inductees UNLV men’s basketball coach Lon Krueger introduces Bill Boyd. Responsible Gaming: In Your Words satellite and look forward to doing it again next year,” said Poker Manger Take Advantage of Great Employee Discounts Robert Tagliaferri. Picture this. You head to San Diego for vacation, rent a Employees can now access information about employee car, spend a day at Sea World, check into a hotel for the discounts on the company intranet, www.boyd.net. Just click Two other Boyd Gaming employees also were good enough to earn night. And because you are a Boyd Gaming employee, you the “Employee Discounts” link on the homepage and then cash in the WSOP employee tournament. Robert Griffin from the slot receive a special discount on all of it. select either “Las Vegas Discounts” for offers in Las Vegas or “Multiple Locations” for offers throughout the United States. department at Suncoast took 37th place and took home more than Boyd Gaming has teamed up with many businesses $2,000; Susie McBaine from The Orleans poker room placed 61st and to offer special discounts to our employees. Great If you have any questions, please call Arlene Cecka in earned nearly $1,500. There were more than 1,000 entries, and only discounts are available for attractions, movies, Corporate Human Resources at 702.792.7294. financial services, grocery deliveries, gym 100 made the money. Illustrations by Calder Chism memberships, travel and much more. Moving up

Billie Jean (BJ) Weeks Sam Mosley Joyce Reisig Assistant Director of Food and Beverage Day Shift Supervisor Administrative Assistant/Scheduler

Moving Up: Beverage Manager (2001) – Food and Moving Up: Attendant (2003) – Heavy Porter (2006) Moving Up: California, Dealer (1978) – Stardust, Beverage Manager (2004) – Assistant Director of Food – Day Shift Supervisor (2007) Dealer, Floor Supervisor, Scheduler (1979-2006) – and Beverage (2007) The Orleans, Administrative Assistant/Scheduler (2007) Thought for the day: Sam came to Borgata prior to Thought for the day: After working in the food and its grand opening, after spending two months with the Thought for the Day: After nearly 30 years working beverage department for six years, BJ has recently Atlantic City Jobs and Opportunity Program, which for the Company, Joyce opted for the buyout when the Stardust closed in November. Her position as Scheduler made the transition to Assistant Director of Food was established in 2003, with support from Borgata. was unique, and there was not a similar position and Beverage. Her job duties include overseeing all The work during pre-opening was hard and dirty, and available at other Boyd Gaming properties. Three aspects of inventory, ordering, catering, room service long hours were required of new hires. Sam worked months later, a Scheduler position was created at and front of house food and beverage. BJ provides diligently and with enthusiasm as opening approached. The Orleans, and Joyce happily returned to her Boyd training for all new hires that she recruits at job fairs. In the years that followed, he continued to follow a Gaming family. On the job, Joyce works hand-in-hand “Taking care of my employees is the most important path that promoted terrific customer service and great with the casino manager to schedule vacations and part of my job. I try to lead by example,” BJ said. “I team work. In 2006, Sam was nominated and selected time off for all three shifts, a task that requires both do not expect any employee to have to do a job that to enter Borgata’s Upward Mobility program. That organization and compassion to assure everyone’s I would not do myself.” same year, he was awarded one of Atlantic City’s needs are met. She brings that compassion to other highest honors – The Atlantic City Host Award for Best areas, as well, and was honored with the community- After Hours: BJ and her family moved to Louisiana Public Area Personnel. based Jefferson Award for her work in planning an when she was one year old. She lives in Lake Charles annual Christmas party at the Stardust for children with her husband, Charles. They have three children, After Hours: An avid reader of mystery novels, Sam also in need. seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren with enjoys writing and aspires to become a published author. one more on the way. In her spare time she enjoys He enjoys swimming and playing basketball. He also After Hours: Joyce enjoys helping her husband run reading, sewing, cooking and working in her yard. loves public speaking and is an annual guest speaker at their fishing lodge business in Utah called Navajo Lake Lodge. She also facilitates a Christian women’s group, the AC Jobs and Opportunities graduating classes. Petals of Faith, which meets monthly. Moving Up illustrations © Calder Chism Property Leaders Sound Off Las Vegas Locals

Gold Coast Kerrie Burke With a fond farewell and hopes of green golf courses, we say goodbye to Mike Growney who retired in July after 13 years as Vice President and General Manager of the Gold Coast. His family at the Gold Coast has welcomed me as his replacement, and I truly appreciate all the support I’ve received. I’m looking forward to this new adventure and many successful years being a part of, “The place Las Vegans call home.”

The Orleans Tony Taeubel The Orleans has begun a series of projects to upgrade the quality of the property and enhance the experience for our guests. A new restaurant and bar at Canal Street (to be re-named William B’s); a high- limit slots, lounge and check-in project; renovations at most casino bars; improvements in the Oyster Bar, Courtyard Cafe, poker room, race and sports book; and new state-of-the-art slot chairs highlight the list.

Sam’s Town Las Vegas Mike Garms As our new state-of-the-art Race/Sports Book, Deli and Billy Joe’s Bar open, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the entire staff here at Sam’s Town. Your efforts to care for our guests during the disruption and inconvenience of construction once again displays the “Boyd Style” that makes you “Simply the Best.”

Suncoast Joe Fuscaldo We have had some exciting changes to our casino. We’ve upgraded our sign package to create more eye catching information for our guests. We have also added new plasma screens to the casino to enhance our customers playing experience. We are looking forward to several renovation projects which are scheduled for the upcoming months. These enhancements will add a new and exciting flair to our already great restaurants.

Eldorado/Jokers Wild Vince Wickliffe Customers (happily) and employees (with trepidation) have come to know July as Coca Cola month. Every July, we give players thousands of Coke 12-packs (or cases of water if preferred). It is a huge task for our employees to keep the display stocked and help customers move product to their vehicles. Through it all they remain helpful, positive and smiling. Once again, our dedicated employees display their “Boyd Style” and get the job done!

Downtown Las Vegas

California David Lebby The Cal has enjoyed a fantastic 2007 so far, and we still have many special events in store for our loyal Hawaiian customers before the year comes to an end, including our annual Frank DeLima show. We also spent this past summer remodeling the east tower and we are certain the improvements will offer a more comfortable stay for our guests. Thank you to all team members involved who helped make this project a success!

Fremont John Sou The Fremont has taken on a “new look” as we wrap up our extensive casino remodel that began this summer. We have already had a great response to the upgrades we have made to better serve our customers and create a more comfortable environment for our guests to enjoy.

Main Street Station David Lebby Once again I am proud to announce that Main Street was recognized with a total of nine first place awards in the Casino Player magazine’s Best of Gaming 2007. Main street was honored in several categories including “Best Buffet,” “Best Video Poker,” and “Best Players Club,” just to name a few! Congratulations to our incredible team that is constantly recognized by our customers on a job well done.

Vacations Hawaii Bill Smith Vacations Hawaii had a great 2007 and is continuing to provide the Hawaiian community with excellent service to their favorite vacation destination! To accommodate the increased demand for the UH/UNLV game in September, we twice operated two chartered flights to Las Vegas on the same day. In addition to transporting customers on scheduled airlines, the Company will continue to explore this alternative to meet customer demand.

Midwest and South

Blue Chip Ted Bogich Four Winds, a large Native American casino, opened August 2 on the Michigan border near Blue Chip. They hired about 2,400 employees, but only 54 came from Blue Chip, which represents 4.2 percent of our workforce. I appreciate the loyalty and dedication of our team members, and their commitment to making Blue Chip such a great place for our guests.

Par-A-Dice Chris Carrado I am very excited to be home again in the Midwest and to have the opportunity to begin my career with Boyd Gaming here at Par-A-Dice. Thanks to all the team members who have welcomed me aboard with their friendly hospitality. Our summer promotions were popular with our guests and created excitement as we gave away a “Cruise, a Corvette and Coolers of Cash.” In June, our guest service scores were at an all time high. Congratulations team!

Delta Downs Jack Bernsmeier Delta Downs is anxiously awaiting the opening of our newest restaurant, Vista Grill, scheduled to open the latter part of September. It will offer our guests a panoramic view of live horse racing while they enjoy fine cuisine prepared by our award winning chefs. Guests will enjoy a selection of steaks, seafood, pasta and delectable desserts from a truly unique menu.

Sam’s Town Shreveport Kim Etland This summer more than 100 of our employees spent hours of their free time to help build the Sam’s Town Habitat for Humanity House. I recently attended the dedication and presentation of the keys ceremony, and it was a truly moving experience. The new home owner now calls Shreveport home after evacuating from Hurricane Katrina, and she was extremely appreciative of all the sweat and love our employees poured into her home.

Treasure Chest Toni Demahy It was hot this summer at Treasure Chest, and we’re not just talking about the weather! We held several large promotions and awarded prizes to almost 7,000 winners totalling more than $720,000. Needless to say, we had our guests talking. Now, it’s football season and we’re watching the Saints play – in style, with everyone getting to wear Saints gear on game days. Just like the Saints, I am proud of our team here at the Treasure Chest, and I know we’ll keep up our winning ways.

Sam’s Town Tunica George Stadler Our efforts in developing the local market by sponsoring diverse events and advertising have continued to reap benefits. Our local market has grown 30 percent in 2007, through events like the Sisterhood Showcase, Snowden Grove Amphitheater and the Southern Women’s Show; we have firmly established STT as a leader in the Greater Memphis community. In November, we will begin the $9.2 million Phase III hotel renovation project.

Dania Jai-Alai John Knox When the poker laws changed in Florida last July, the dynamics of the Dania Jai-Alai Card Room also changed. The demand for Texas Hold’em tournaments virtually dried up everywhere because of the no-limit ($100 maximum buy-in) games. So, we started FREE ROLL tournaments with $500 winner-take-all prize money on various days of the week. They have become very popular and we hope to rekindle the interest in our tournaments.

New Jersey

Borgata Larry Mullin So far this year, 29 Borgata associates have graduated from our property’s career development program, Upward Mobility. It’s an exciting opportunity for motivated professionals to enhance their management skills and advance their careers. The next program begins in October, with a new group of associates. Congratulations to all those who are participating, and special thanks to our training team for making this opportunity possible.

Corporate

Administration Bill Noonan The corporate office employees in Las Vegas love their new four-story office building. We are currently involved in the 2008 budget process and community-related activities such as the blood drive, the United Way campaign and diversity events. Please remember, our role at Corporate is to support and assist our sister properties. We are here for you! What’s Your Number? For a few years, the Blue Chip has incorporated a clever prize system in their property newsletter, The Informinator. Each issue, an employee ID number is hidden somewhere within the publication. If that employee uncovers their number, he or she wins a gift! Thanks to Blue Chip, the Boyd Buzz now features this fun prize opportunity for all Boyd Gaming employees. So enjoy reading the Buzz, and if you find your ID number, you win!

Contact Kristy Alward, Assistant Editor to claim your prize: Call 702.792.7357 or email [email protected]

PERCS Becomes Boyd Benefits In July, employee health, vision and dental insurance began transitioning from PERCS to CIGNA Healthcare. The PERCS department has been renamed Boyd Benefits, and all issues regarding healthcare will be handled directly through CIGNA online at www.cigna.com or by calling 800.568.1314.

There are many positive elements to this change. They include:

• Health providers nationwide that are in the CIGNA Open Access Plus network

• 24-Hour, toll-free nurse line dedicated to answering your questions at 800.568.1314

• Multi-language customer service response on the customer service line

• Website where employees can review claims and find health and wellness information

• Fast claims payment averaging 30 days or less

Employee benefits themselves are not changing, and there will be no changes to the pharmacy program. The transition should be relatively seamless, because there is an almost identical match of providers, hospitals and facilities between the PERCS plan and the CIGNA network.

Every employee on the PERCS benefit plan should receive a card in the mail from CIGNA with your name, as well as one for each covered family member. This card replaces both the previous insurance and pharmacy cards. You may also print a temporary card from the Web site www.cigna.com.

To learn more, go online at www.cigna.com or call 800.568.1314.

The Boyd Gaming employee talent show celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

NOW? YOU K Most properties have already held talent shows, DID and first place winner from each will compete in the entertainer of the year finals at The Orleans showroom on November 6! News You Can Use Hats Off! In May, all Corporate employees celebrated the Pat Ward, Par-A-Dice Boyd Community Property opening of their new offices on South Rainbow Human Resource Employee Boulevard. The luau party was complete with Development Specialist, has Hawaiian music, hula dancers, prizes and a been selected as a recipient Photo Album wonderful selection of food prepared and set for the Central Illinois 25 Women up by The Orleans chefs and staff. Employees in Leadership Award received for 2007. This prestigious Hawaiian leis as honor is awarded to they arrived, and everyone women who have signed the “Welcome” wall, given themselves which featured the greeting to the betterment of their family, their company and the in many different languages. Central Illinois Community. The next employee get Eldorado and Jokers Wild continue to support the together is scheduled for Eldorado Executive Chef Rick Burse was Henderson community in a variety of ways. In the last November 9. named “2007 Best Chef of the Year” by the quarter, the hosted a July 4th celebration, donated Alliance of Black Culinarians. dinner comps to local schools for fundraising raffles, The North Louisiana Chapter of the American Society contributed funds for the Springsational Heritage Parade, for Training and Development presented Sam’s Town and provided food and beverages for the monthly Artwalk Shreveport with the 2007 NEO Award for Excellence in Sherri Savado, a Blue Chip Buffet Cashier, was recently in downtown Henderson. New Employee Orientation. The award is given annually to a honored with an Army Achievement Award for her work local organization that exemplifies dedication to welcoming, along the Mexico-U.S. border near San Diego. During a orienting, integrating and training new staff members. Sam’s Town Shreveport two-month period, Sherri’s unit helped construct a portion General Manager Kim of the border fence Blue Chip marked its 10th anniversary in August with a Etland is pictured with new and create culverts in week-long celebration that included guest giveaways each homeowner Lisa Richards the mountains that will day. Employees celebrated with cake in the Employee (right) during the recent help divert rain water Dining Room. dedication of the Sam’s Town and prevent large-scale Habitat House that employees flooding in cities such helped construct last summer. as Tijuana, Mexico.

Par-A-Dice held its annual team member Sam’s Town Shreveport employees rolled up their sleeves awards banquet in to assist low-income seniors with needed home improvements February. The event included more than 400 team members Kim Etland, General Manager of Sam’s Town Shreveport, during a community Paint Your Heart Out event. and their guests, as well as Chairman and CEO Bill Boyd. served as Grand Marshall of the Sam’s Town 400 NASCAR Hotel Secretary Carrie Vaughn was named Team Member Craftsman Truck Series race in June. Roann Sulak, a guest of the Year out of 24 nominees, and more than 250 people of the property, served as Honorary Starter. Eric Norris, son were recognized with 10-Year Service Awards. of actor and martial artist Chuck Norris, competed in the race along with all-time victory leader Ron Hornaday, Jr. Several Sam’s Town Shreveport employees were recently There are currently 300 million people without shoes in our recognized by the Shreveport- world. Soles4Souls partners with charities and governments Bossier Convention and Tourist around the world to provide the basic, yet indispensable, Bureau. The PRIDE awards (Proud gift of a pair of shoes that most of us take for granted. Residents Involved in Developing Boyd Gaming Corporation and The Orleans recently the Economy) honor excellence in donated $20,000 to the organization, which will supply the hospitality and industry 35,000 pair of shoes for those in need. within the community and are awarded based on outstanding customer service Blue Chip food and and for exceeding expectations. First beverage department place winners from Sam’s Town were: provided lunch for a Joe Wiggins, Transportation; Benjamin Women’s Day Build Vosberg, Catering; and Eric Marsh, Housekeeping. by the LaPorte County Nominees recognized in the top three included: Kenji Hall, Habitat for Humanity Hotel Executive; Barbara Ammons, Gift Shop; and Teresa in June. Chef Andrew Kennedy, Food Server/Banquet. prepared box lunches and salads for the event.

Security Officer Named Osmond Family Reunites at The Orleans “Professional of the Year” Legendary music family the Osmonds celebrated an historic 50th Anniversary Main Street Station Security Officer David O’Neal in entertainment with an all-star music special for television taped before a live (pictured with John Horton, Director of Security, audience at The Orleans showroom in August. The Osmond 50th Anniversary Echelon Resorts - James Boles, Security Shift show, starring The Osmond Brothers and special guests Donny, Marie and Manager, Main Street Station and Jim Daugherty, Jimmy, will air on all PBS stations in the United States in March 2008. Director of Security, Downtown Region) was recently named “2006 Professional of the Year” by the Las The show marks the first time in several years that the entire Osmond family Vegas Security Chiefs Association. performed together on the same stage. The two-day celebration included a “meet and greet” event at The Orleans, including the arrival of the performers, O’Neal was recognized for apprehending a cage celebrity guests and fans traveling from around the world. The PBS special to air robbery suspect who was fleeing the scene. He also next year, will also include cameo appearances by celebrity guests, video clips, a worked with responding Las Vegas Metropolitan mix of musical numbers and interviews with fans filmed at the show. Police Department officers to obtain surveillance video tape, witness statements and other evidence. In their 50 years in the entertainment industry, the Osmonds have recorded 142 More than $3,500 in cash was recovered, and it was albums, selling more than 100 million copies with 51 gold or platinum recordings. later determined that the suspect also was wanted by the FBI for bank robbery in Texas and by Las Vegas authorities for other thefts.

“By using his training and skills to apprehend a What’s Your Story? Long-time Sam’s Town Las Vegas Employee Reminisces wanted felon, Officer O’Neal helped maintain the safety of employees and customers at our property,” The first time I met Mr. Boyd back in 1985, Mr. Boyd’s looked up at me on top of the ladder, saw the look said Jim Daugherty. office was upstairs at Sam’s Town. I was 22 years old and on my face. Mr. Boyd said, “Don’t worry, you will hired to clean the warehouse, and I had no maintenance get it. Do you want a drink of water?” After Mr. experience. The engineering dispatcher got a call that the Boyd’s reassurance, the bulb went right in and I light was out over Mr. Boyd’s desk and due to a pending stopped shaking, too. meeting needed it changed as soon as was practical. The dispatcher looked around the shop and I was the only one Ivan Joyce later returned to the shop with a great returning from my warehouse assignment. smile and said, “I bet you will never forget your first light bulb change.” I bet neither Mr. Boyd or When I arrived at Mr. Boyd’s office, it turns out the Mr. Joyce could have thought after 23 years of the meeting was with my brand new boss, Ivan Joyce, the same type of support and learning opportunities, I facility manger at the time. Both gentlemen thanked me would manage his facility department today. for coming so quickly and asked me to proceed. I had thought I could hide the fact this was the first time I had -David Babbe ever changed a fluorescent bulb. No luck! I had sweat pouring from my brow, my legs were shaking, and I could not get the bulb in. After several minutes Mr. Boyd

Dave Babbe: Facility Manager, Sam’s Town Las Vegas

Boyd Buzz Team Editor: ROB STILLWELL, CORPORATE / Assistant Editor: KRISTY ALWARD, Corporate. Boyd Gaming Property Contributors: “D” ALEXANDER SCOTT, BLUE CHIP / Kathy mick, BORGATA / ALEXANDRA TOCCI, CALIFORNIA/FREMONT/MAIN STREET STATION / Marty Fleischman, Dania Jai-Alai / KORTNEY CARRIER, JEANNE ROGERS, DELTA DOWNS / KATE CHRISTMAN, SHEREE CUNNINGHAM, SANDI RICHARDSON, ELDORADO/JOKERS WILD / LYNNE RAVENSCRAFT, GOLD COAST / LANI DeJESUS, JIM SEAGRAVE, THE ORLEANS / CORI SEGLER, JENNIFER SHARP, PAR-A-DICE / PATRICK FITZGERALD, SAM’S TOWN LAS VEGAS / NICOLE WHITTINGTON-Shannon, SAM’S TOWN TUNICA / DONALD CASPER, LEIGH POLANSKI, SAM’S TOWN SHREVEPORT / GLENDA ZUHSE, Julie Juneau SUNCOAST / bobby thornton, TREASURE CHEST / BILL SMITH, RUSSELL GOUVEIA, VACATIONS HAWAII Corporate Contributors: GINA POLOVINA, JUDY BANKS, INDU FAIRBANKS, LES LEONARD