Cincinnati's first African-American mayor, the late Theodore M. Berry, probably would have loved the reason behind what his city did in his honor Saturday. Hundreds of people of all ages, races and creeds came together to dedicate Cincinnati's newest - and definitely one of its most unusual - parks in Berry's name. It's called the Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park.

A sign in eight languages greets visitors to the East End park. It's Cincinnati's first new park in 40 years. | ZOOM |

Berry was, above all, a promoter of friendship for the city of Cincinnati in a crucial time of transition. The dedication of the park comes at an appropriate time because the Cincinnati continues to struggle with the issues of race and how people get along.

As the park was being dedicated, a forum was being held at the University of Cincinnati to address how Cincinnati can emerge from an economic boycott, which stems from the rioting of two years ago. "With all of the challenges in the world today, it is comforting to have a place in our city that celebrates friendship and the value of the many enriching cultures of our heritage," said Willie F. Carden Jr., director of the Cincinnati Parks. "With the 150 ethnic cultures represented by people living in Cincinnati, this park is a beautiful place for families to celebrate and appreciate the diverse make-up of our world."

The park is an unusual blend of gardens and artwork that stretches fingerlike along the Ohio River just east of downtown.

The world's flags flying from 18 poles along the river's edge greet visitors. At Berry International Plaza, a sign greets visitors in eight languages. Tiles point to four cities around the globe, which are due north, south, east and west of the park.

It is the first major park built in Cincinnati in more than 40 years, and with its addition, there is now two miles of continuous public spaces along the riverfront from Friendship Park to Great American Ball Park.

It's a wonderful addition to downtown and we hope it will mature into a true gathering place for the natives and visitors alike.

When Berry became mayor in 1972, the theme of his administration was "Togetherness." Why not adopt that theme today, and hope it creates ripple effect, from the banks of the Ohio, and throughout Greater Cincinnati.

Saturday story:
Ted Berry's message lives in new city park