Peter "Zebbler" Berdovsky was part of a marketing stunt that turned into a bomb scare in 2007. Credit: Facebook

A new year means a new chance for a local artist behind the 2007 Mooninite marketing stunt that prompted a citywide bomb scare: He has been contracted to create a $50,000 electronic centerpiece for Boston’s 2014 First Night celebrations.

Peter “Zebbler” Berdovsky will stage the pricey light show with the blessing of Mayor Thomas Menino, who in 2007 described the stunt as “outrageous,” “irresponsible” and “unacceptable.”

“I’m honored to have a chance to pay back to the city of Boston through my projection and light art. This will hopefully give everyone a chance to celebrate our unity. We are a great city. Let’s remember that, and be unified in our voice," Berdovsky told the Boston Herald.

The stunt was meant to promote the movie “Aqua Teen Hunger Force,” and consisted of 40 battery-powered LED placards resembling the show's characters flipping their middle fingers.

The placards were hung around the city, initially causing confusion and concern. Roads, bridges and public transit were shut down while authorities tried to make sense of the lights; they eventually realized it was part of a publicity stunt.

Berdovsky and another man were initially charged with placing a hoax device in a way that causes panic and disorderly conduct, however the charges were dropped when the pair agreed to community service and offered a public apology.

Menino spokesman John Guilfoil told the Herarld, "The mayor is confident in the choice of artists and the program selections for the evening. He is confident it will be a wonderful First Night, and a memorable night for all."

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