Rod Serling Statue Unveiled in Binghamton

Binghamton celebrated the unveiling of a six-foot-tall bronze statue honoring Rod Serling, creator of The Twilight Zone, at Recreation Park, coinciding with the Serling Centennial marking his 100th birthday and the 65th anniversary of the show's debut. The statue, costing approximately $140,000, was funded through state grants and individual donations, with Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo playing a crucial role in securing financial support. The event drew hundreds of attendees, including Serling's daughters and fans from as far away as Boston, highlighting the strong connection between Serling and his hometown. Nick Parisi, president of the Rod Serling Memorial Foundation, expressed satisfaction with the community's positive reception of the statue. Additionally, the SerlingFest festival included various events celebrating Serling's contributions to television and social justice, reinforcing his legacy and affection for Binghamton. The statue features a quote from Serling, emphasizing his pride in his roots, stating, 'Everyone has a hometown, Binghamton’s mine.'