We visited Rhine Hall, where Gary Rhinebarger has turned a 1930s church into one of Kokomo’s most unique event spaces.

After 30 years at Chrysler and two decades in real estate, Gary never planned to run an event venue…but as he told us, “All of what it is now kind of picked us.” His goal to preserve the historic building evolved into a creative hub for the community, hosting everything from weddings and nonprofit galas to Rising Star, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and local dating shows.

Gary shared how much heart and grit it takes to keep a dream alive. Every day brings new challenges, but the reward is seeing people come together in a space that inspires connection.

He left us with advice every entrepreneur should hear: “If you find a dream, chase it. Good chance you’ll fail. That failure will probably be the best lesson of your life. Don’t be afraid of failure.”