The Franklin Gazebo

The Franklin Gazebo, completed in 2018, was created as a welcoming community space supporting Franklin Township’s commitment to arts, culture, and accessible public gathering places. Designed with an octagonal structure symbolizing the Township’s eight historic villages, and topped with a cupola that reflects the region’s Dutch heritage, the Gazebo serves as both an architectural landmark and a venue for cultural activities.

Today, the Gazebo hosts performances, civic ceremonies, community celebrations, and moments of quiet reflection. Its installation represents an ongoing investment in cultural spaces that enrich the diverse community of Franklin Township.

Community Recognition

The Franklin Township Cultural Arts Council extends sincere gratitude to the many residents, businesses, organizations, and partners whose contributions and volunteer efforts made the Franklin Gazebo possible.

Founding Members – Gazebo Fund

• John P. Felix – Chair, Franklin Township Cultural Arts Committee (FTCAC)
• William Grippo – Fundraising Chair
• Michael Steinbruck – Special Projects, FTCAC

Gazebo Fund Committee

• Zachary Lichtmann – Steering Committee, FTCAC
• John Herrling – East Millstone Historical Society
• Peter Stavrianidis – Corporate Fundraising

Sponsors & Supporters

Thanks to our sponsors and supporters, each of whom has contributed to the arts in Franklin. The Franklin Township Cultural Arts Council and the residents of Franklin Township extend our sincere appreciation to the following:

Major Donors

• Alan & Marlene Zavodnick
• Alex Kharazi
• Assemblyman Joe Danielsen
• Assemblyman Joseph Egan
• David Samuel
• Donald Ericsson, Stage House
• Frank Semcer
• Franklin PBA Local 154
• Franklin Township Education Association
• Franklin Township School Administration Association
• Hermann Transportation Services
• Infinity Painting
• James Bitzonis
• Jo Ann Zavodnick & Family
• Johnson & Johnson
• Joy Systems
• Marguerite M. Schaffer
• Mark and Son
• Mark Rossman
• Mark Soriano
• Muslim Women Coalition
• Peter Stavrianidis, Venus Jewelers
• Rainone Coughlin Minchello, LLC
• Robin Suydam
• Senator Bob Smith
• St. Peter's Healthcare System
• Umesh & Chandra Shukla
• Vimal Sodhani, Sodhani Foundation

In-Kind Donors

• Cedar Hill Landscaping
• Clayton Companies
• Fama's Nursery & Landscaping
• Jerry Tomaselli
• L & L Redi Mix, Inc.
• Murray Paving & Concrete, LLC
• Premier Development
• Trap Rock Industries

Other Donors

• Ad Cetera, Inc.
• AJ Hoeflinger
• Amy Petersen
• Arlene Freiberg
• Bernice Woldmam
• Bill Grippo
• Brian Regan
• Christine Van Beveren
• Constance Sharp
• David Smith
• Dhairyasheel Borde
• Edmond Farran
• Elizabeth Hopkins
• Ellen Callahan
• Enayat Poustchi
• Erna Steinbruck
• Franklin Womens Club
• Hal Frankel
• I. Kislin
• Janet Salzman
• Janice Regan
• Jennifer Kady
• John Felix
• John Herrling
• Joseph Giordano
• Judith DeFrancesco
• Kenneth Kaufman
• Lavonne Heydel
• Linda Giordano
• Linda Smith
• Lorraine Colarusso
• Mark Hopkins
• Matthew Callahan
• Maurene Atzori
• NJ Buddhist Vihara & Meditation Center
• Michael Petersen
• Michael Steinbruck
• Michele Bersak
• Nierenberg
• Nishita Desai
• Patrice Rossettie
• Patrick Sewell
• Peter Fiorentino

A Community Investment

Support for cultural spaces such as the Franklin Gazebo highlights the commitment of residents, organizations, and partners to building a vibrant and inclusive community.

Thank you to all who contributed to bringing this project to life.