Politics & Government

Bonilla Trial Continues, Children's Summer Festival

A weekly look-in at news from around the Town of Hempstead.

The trial of Hempstead Town Clerk Mark Bonilla reached closing arguments this week.

Bonilla was accused in September of attempting to obtain intimate photos of a female subordinate -- later identified at Ariel Davis -- who had filed a claim of sexual harassment against him.

Seaford resident Elissa Smith, a former aide in Bonilla’s office, testified against the town clerk Tuesday, Newsday[paid link] reported.

Find out what's happening in Five Townswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

      Smith testified Tuesday that Alex Desidoro, a friend and another former Bonilla aide, contacted her after Bonilla attempted to obtain the pictures from him. Desidoro had been in an on-and-off relationship with the woman who filed the complaint.

The prosecution’s closing argument focused on the testimonies of multiple witnesses stating that Bonilla attempted to obtain the photos, while Newsday [paid link] reported that “Bonilla's attorney, Adrian DiLuzio of Mineola, has said it's possible Desidoro offered the photos without coercion.”

Find out what's happening in Five Townswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Bonilla is charged with official misconduct, second-degree attempted coercion and attempted petty larceny. He faces a maximum of one year in jail if convicted.

Town Announces Children’s Summer Festivals

The Town of Hempstead has announced two festivals that will be running on multiple dates in various communities throughout the town.

Both children’s shows are presented free of charge to the public. Tickets are not required for performances and venues do not have arranged seating, so it is suggested that guests arrive early and bring lawn chairs or beach blankets.

“Friends Like You And Me” is a highly energetic show that engages children through music and movement. This highly interactive, thought provoking and meaningful performance will encourage youngsters to use their bodies and voices to hop like frogs, flop their socks, make an imaginary pizza and learn sign language.

“Erik’s Reptile Edventure” children will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of science and nature. The show offers a fun-filled educational experience that encourages kids to learn about reptiles, amphibians and bugs. There will be a pre-show event with live footage from Erik’s most recent trip to Madagascar. Residents who join the morning session will be able to Skype live with friends from Madagascar and get a sneak peak at a few live animals before meeting the rest of the scaly and slippery friends.

“Friends Like You And Me” with Lyle Cogen

  • July 22: 10:30 a.m., Coes Neck Park, Baldwin; 1:30 p.m. -- Hewlett Point Park, Bay Park

  • July 23: 10:30 a.m., Cedar Street Park, Uniondale; 1:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Park, East Meadow

  • July 24: 10:30 a.m., Levittown Hall, Hicksville; 1:30 p.m., Newbridge Road Park, Bellmore

  • July 25: 10:30 a.m., Averill Boulevard Park, Elmont; 1:30 p.m., Forest City Park, Wantagh

  • July 26: 10:30 a.m., Shell Creek Park, Barnum Island; 1:30 p.m., Terrace Gardens Park, Inwood

  • Erik’s Reptile Edventure

    • July 29: 10 a.m., Levittown Veterans Memorial, Levittown; 1:30 p.m., Rock Hall Museum, Lawrence

    • July 30: 10 a.m., Harold Walker Park, Lakeview; 1:30 p.m., Smith Street Park, Uniondale

    • July 31: 10 a.m., Baldwin Park, Baldwin Harbor; 1:30 p.m., Roosevelt Pool, Roosevelt

    • Aug. 1: 10 a.m., Echo Park, West Hempstead; 1:30 p.m., Elmont Road Park, Elmont

    • Aug. 2: 10 a.m., Rath Park, Franklin Square; 1:30 p.m., Hendrickson Avenue Park, Elmont

    For more information about the Children’s Summer Festival, call at (516) 292-9000 ext. 382, or visit the town’s website at www.toh.li


    Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

    We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here