Film Fest Happenings on Sunday

Sunday marks the final day of the third annual Gold Coast International Film Festival. Here are the highlights.

"Send No Flowers," which follows a mafia princess who, after her father is brutally murdered, stakes her claim to the family business as she comes head-to-head with her rivals, the police, and her own mob family. A “coming of age” story like no other. Directed by Long Island born Fred Carpenter who will be in attendance plus a Q&A panel with Actors Sean Young, Jackie Martling, Gianni Russo, Tony LoBianco and Robert Clohessy in person beginning at 3:30 p.m. at Soundview Cinemas, 7 Soundview Market Place Port Washington.

"Teddy Bears," starring Jason Ritter ("Parenthood") and Melanie Lynskey (who played Rose in "2 1/2 Men"), a dark comedy which follows three couples who head to the desert to help a friend heal after the death of his mother. (Bowtie Great Neck Squire Cinemas at 4:15 p.m. Jason Ritter and Melanie Lynskey will be at the event in person.

Ambassador Yehuda Avner will answer questions and sign his best-selling book after the Long Island premiere of "The Prime Ministers," a documentary based on his book which explores six decades of Israel's history and brings to life never-before told stories about Levi Eshkol, Golda Meir, Yitzhak Rabin, Menachem Begin and Shimon Peres. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit The Simon Wiesenthal Center, 4 p.m., Bowtie Great Neck Cinema. This event is followed by closing ceremonies next door at 6 p.m. at Gold Coast Arts Center at 113 Middle Country Road in Great Neck.  

Arts and Business

More than 50 artists, small business owners, and local officials attended the Town of North Hempstead’s free “The Business of Art – Round 2” seminar on Friday at the Town’s “Yes We Can” Community Center in Westbury.

The event focused on funding sources for artists, nonprofits and entrepreneurs.

Councilwoman Viviana Russell, D-Westbury. noted that participating in arts event, attendees “will learn about the importance of art and how it attracts people, brings them together, and boosts the economy.”

Featured guests presented their work, and there was a question and answer session followed by a meet-and-greet. In addition, an art exhibition highlighted the work of Robert Carter, Emmett Wigglesworth and Mario Tucci.  Pieces from these artists will remain on display at the Community Center.