***SPECIAL PROGRAM ALERT: This memorable hour will be rebroadcast on News Radio 1290 WNBF on New Year's Day at 9 a.m. ***

 

Bill Parker, Binghamton's beloved "Dean of Broadcasting," was back on the air Friday for a special appearance on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program.

Parker joined host Bob Joseph and Broome County historian Gerald Smith for the monthly "Binghamton Then" feature.

Parker has been part of the Binghamton radio and television scene for decades.

The special hour broadcast was filled with special memories as Bill shared stories of the people and events that have been important to the development of broadcasting in the region.

Bill was with WNBF radio on December 1, 1949, the day the station launched Binghamton's first television station, WNBF-TV. Channel 12 now is WBNG-TV.

Binghamton Nowlisteners called and emailed the program to share some of their own memories of Bill Parker's radio and television work over the decades.

Minutes after the hour-long segment concluded, the program received a surprise phone call from long-time Binghamton broadcast journalist Bernard Fionte. Bernie served as a news anchor at WNBF radio and television, as well as at other Binghamton stations.

It was a great opportunity for WNBF Radio staff and audience to look back with fondness on some wonderful times on the air in Binghamton.

Thanks to all those who made this extraordinary broadcast possible.

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