I’m proud and excited to be installed as the President and Chairperson of the Long Island Film-TV Foundation, the 501(c)3 that runs the Long Island International Film Expo – LIIFE. I’d like to thank our longtime Chairperson, Henry Stampfel, for his many years of loving support and dedication. Henry will act as an Advisor for the LIFTF Board and will continue to host us at our beloved home at the Bellmore Movies, one of Long Island’s oldest movie theaters.

With the Foundation’s recent elections, our Board is now comprised of an 80% majority of women, with Lindsay Serrano stepping into my previous role of Vice President/Secretary, Karen Rizzo fulfilling the role of Foundation Treasurer, and Henry’s wife, Anne Stampfel, also a Founding Member, coming on as a Trustee.. Anthony Labriola of Sophisticated Lions Entertainment rounds off our group of esteemed board members.

Having been the creator of the Nassau County Film Office and serving as its Film Commissioner for 33 years, I’ve had the pleasure of watching some of the largest studio projects grace our area as well as seeing independent film grow and thrive on Long Island.

LIIFE, one of Long Island’s oldest film festivals, is heading into its 26th year this July 19 – 23, 2023, and our all-volunteer Board and judges take pride in screening hundreds of films and curating a program that is unique, entertaining, and informative.

We assemble panels to provide information and networking opportunities and provide insight about the filmmaking process to the general public. Ending with our star-studded closing awards ceremony, we honor the winners of this year’s LIIFE as well as those who provide inspiration to our participants.

As a filmmaker and writer myself, I’m proud of what our dedicated team has put together, and we look forward to seeing you at the movies.

Warm regards,
Debra Markowitz
President/Chairperson