Peer Perspective: “Reach for the Brass Ring” – Kenny’s Retreat Reflections
Let’s see if I can remember the beginning…
Back in the late ’90s, I was working as the Bar Manager at the Holiday Inn Portsmouth under Lane Hospitality. Then came a new management company—Newport Hospitality Group. I don’t remember all the corporate details, but I do remember the feeling: a genuine “welcome to the family.”
In those first few years, I grew from Bar Manager to Food & Beverage Director, then to Assistant General Manager. In 2001, I made the move to Sunset Beach for my first General Manager position—and just like that, time flew. I’m now on my sixth property. I’ve taken them over, converted them, opened them, closed one, and even babysat a few. Through it all, I’ve been given the opportunity to learn—and more importantly, trusted to get the job done.
Of course, there have been a few hiccups along the way. But that’s where Newport truly shines. You’re encouraged to grow. You’re expected to make mistakes—and to learn from them. That’s where the 3 Ps come in.
For those unfamiliar, Newport’s 3 Ps—Permission, Power, and Protection—are part of our Empowerment Promise. They’re not just words. They give every team member the tools and confidence to take care of our guests. We’re given permission to act, the power to solve problems, and protection to do the right thing—even when it’s not the easy thing. That kind of trust changes how we lead—and how we grow.
We’ve also shared some incredible experiences together. Every year, we gather to reflect on the past and plan for the future. These conferences aren’t just meetings—they’re moments. Moments to connect, laugh, and build relationships. We’ve been to Nashville, Myrtle Beach, and even Universal Studios. (I have a great photo of a few of us standing on stage at the Grand Ole Opry!)
One of the things that’s always stood out to me is the chance to connect directly with our leadership. You can sit down with anyone—talk about life, family, and everything in between. At Newport, people care about you, not just your role. The two go hand-in-hand.
In the past, Bill Carey—who co-founded Newport alongside Mike Pleninger—would close each retreat with what I always thought of as a “fireside chat.” He’d share his thoughts, wisdom, and challenge us to carry what we learned into the future. His words always stuck with me: “Reach for that brass ring.”
Today, his son Andrew is continuing that tradition with his own voice and vision, and it’s just as meaningful. My advice? Make the most of those conversations with leadership. Share your story. Hear theirs. And enjoy being part of something that still feels like family—decades later.
Kenny Rogers, General Manager, Residence Inn Blacksburg-University, VA
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