Edwin G. Michaelian Memorial Gazebo
The idea of a gazebo in Tibbits Park on North Broadway grew out of a discussion between two
friends – Brian Wallach, a founder and first president of White Plains Beautification Foundation,
and Robert Pollack, an architect and vice president of the foundation – while enjoying a
lunchtime concert in the park in 1979. Over time, various plans were proposed and studied
until the current design was approved.
A highly respected former County Executive and former Mayor of White Plains, Edwin G.
Michaelian, passed away September 9, 1983. It was decided to build the gazebo in his memory.
A fundraising breakfast was held at Pace University, where Dr. Michaelian had been Director of
The Institute of Sub-Urban Governance. Hosted by Dr. Edward J. Mortola, then president of the
university, about 80 people attended, many of whom were real estate developers and owners
in Westchester County. The estimated cost of $50,000 to construct the gazebo was quickly
raised in a competitive atmosphere. The 1983 Annual Fall Gala raised additional monies for
landscaping around the gazebo.
Robert Pollack designed the gazebo, and the construction firm of Rocco Briante built it,
adding his own contribution of a brick patio. Michaelian’s widow Joyce donated a copper
weathervane, which sits atop the cupola.
The gazebo was dedicated October 14, 1984. Today it is the site of regular spring and summer
midday music events that make living in or visiting White Plains just a little more special.
During the winter holiday season, White Plains Beautification Foundation arranges for an
evergreen tree to be placed inside the gazebo, which is then beautifully decorated by White
Plains Recreation and Parks Department.
Peter Gisondi and his sons, of Peter Gisondi Painting Company, have been generous in donating
their company’s services through the years to power wash, restore and repaint the gazebo.