News

(April, 2015 – Janesville, Wis.)
Mick Gilbertson, the owner of The Armory 10 S. High Street, Janesville, WI 53547 announced to his staff Wednesday that effective immediately , The Armory would be changing its focus to events only and Best Events would be taking over all current events scheduled with the Armory effective Wednesday, April 8, 2015. With this change in focus, lunch and dinner service in the Bunker Lounge, Patio and Friday Night Comedy will no longer be offered.

“My goal from the start – was to ensure this beautiful National Landmark Historic Building, rich in connections with generations of Janesville residents would become the leading west anchor for Janesville’s downtown rejuvenation along with JPAC to the south. This allows this amazing building to continue attracting not only Janesville business to the downtown but businesses from outside the area as well. About half of the weddings we have at the Armory come from outside Janesville currently and there is no reason to think that will change in the future,” Gilbertson shared.

Rod Oksuita, who has run Best Events for 29 years, added “We have been a part of many beautiful weddings and special events at the Armory since it’s opening by providing rentals, décor, and floral design elements. Many of the events booked currently are already involved with us. Now we are able to go beyond that by overseeing the food service component as well. Our focus will be on insuring all booked events are perfect in every way, exactly as planned. We bring an extensive array of menu options, rentals, décor, and design staff that will keep the Armory as an excellent choice for special events. Our entire team is looking forward to this opportunity”

“RJ Halstead, an Events manager with Best Events has been working with The Armory since February and provides the perfect bridge between The Armory and Best Events. RJ is familiar with the Armory’s operations and is familiar with the brides already working with Best Events,” said Mick Gilbertson, owner.

All Armory associates were told Wednesday they would receive all accrued vacation time and severance pay totaling up to 4 weeks. Rodney Oksuita, Catering Director for Best Events, has made arrangements for all Armory associates to apply in person this week at Best Events. “We will be ready to accept applications from Armory associates. They should apply in person effective immediately as all job positions are remaining and will continue. Contact us or come to see us in person at the Center Avenue Location.” added Oksuita. Kelly, Best Events Office Manager, will be at the front desk from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Alternatively, RJ Halstead will also be at the Armory to accept job applications.

Gilbertson, a local architect and Janesville native said “After more than 10 years dedicated to the development, construction and day to day operations of the Armory, this change will allow me to direct my full time energies to the field of architecture and allow me the time to focus on the broader opportunities for Janesville’s Downtown Redevelopment.”