Press release: One Punch Productions has joined forces with the Armory Preservation Group in an effort to restore the recently vacated Fort Hesterly Armory building in Tampa, FL. The 80,000 sq ft building, with its 25,000 sq ft arena, was built back in the late 1930's. The City of Tampa accepted Letters of Interest through November 30, in an effort to garner redevelopment ideas. The Armory Preservation Group's proposal to the City of Tampa calls for maintaining the site as the entertainment venue it always has been. "The history of this building is fantastic," said One Punch Productions President Terry J. Trekas. "In addition to boxing, wrestling, and other sporting events, this building has hosted everyone from The Doors and Pink Floyd, to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Even JFK spoke in this building 4 days before his assassination" said Trekas.

The proposal calls for the complete renovation of the event hall, with it's arched 38 foot ceiling and a seating capacity of 3,500 to 4,000, renovation of the remaining retail/office space, and site and parking improvements. "We are looking at somewhere between $1.8 million and $2.4 million in renovation costs, plus the initial site acquisition expense" Trekas said. "However, the ability to host between 50-75 other events a year, such as concerts, trade shows, receptions, political events, dances, etc. in addition to 6-8 dates a year for our boxing events will more than make up for the costs. Aside from that, this building is an important part of the history of West Tampa, and needs to be preserved in its intended use. I'd really hate to see this place turned into condos or something"  Further information is available at www.onepunch.net