A granite and bronze fountain with the inscription, “Let Justice roll down like water and righteousness as a mighty stream,” will be dedicated in Eden Park today in honor of the late Judge Gilbert Bettman.

        The idea came from his widow, Marianna Brown Bettman, former judge of the Ohio First District Court of Appeals and now a law professor at the University of Cincinnati.

        “I want this to be a lasting memorial for what he stood for,” Mrs. Bettman said. “A major part of his life was his love of nature and the outdoors and his concern for justice.”

        Judge Bettman, who died in February 2000 at age 82, was widely known for his individualism, compassion and moral courage. Defined by conservative Cincinnati as an American Civil Liberties Union Democrat in Republican robes, Judge Bettman served on the bench for 37 years.

        He often drew criticism for being too liberal and too soft on crime. But he described his position by saying: “If I have to go along with the mob spirit, I don't want the job. I'm going to do what's right no matter what the consequences.”

        Mrs. Bettman said the lettering on the fountain explains who Judge Bettman was and what he stood for. Placing it in a park is a tribute to his lifestyle.

        The fountain will be placed in an area of Eden Park in Walnut Hills called the Hinkle Magnolia Garden, which is near the Krohn Conservatory.

        “Being in a quiet area of a park fits his nature because he believed that parks should be quiet and a place where you could go to think and rededicate yourself,” Mrs. Bettman said.

        She said placing the fountain in a park in Walnut Hills adds special meaning to his memory. He grew up in Walnut Hills, and the judge and Mrs. Bettman lived there 22 years.

        “It will be about five minutes away from where I live now,” she said.

        The fountain was designed by artist Ted Gantz of Syca more Street Studios.

        The primary sponsor of the fountain is the Brown Foundation, administered by attorney Robert F. Brown. Judge Bettman served off counsel to the law firm of Brown, Cummins and Brown from 1992 until his death.

        “I hope the fountain reaches into the future and reaffirms that old message that good men should be remembered for their deeds and value,” Mr. Brown said.

        The fountain is financed by family and friends of Judge Bettman and dedicated to Cincinnati.

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