The Starr Story
In celebration of its 16th anniversary, the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Festival (TBJFF) honored its esteemed founder, the late Mr. Jesse Starr (Z"l), with an honorary award. This recognized his dedication and exceptional contributions to the festival's success. A renowned film enthusiast, Mr. Starr was a pillar of the Jewish community, actively involved in organizations like Hillels of the Florida Suncoast and the Jewish Community Relations Council. He served on various committees within the JCC/Federation and was a passionate advocate for Israel.
To commemorate his legacy, the TBJFF established the STARR AWARD. Presented annually since 2012, this award acknowledges and celebrates individuals within the film community who demonstrate unwavering support and significant involvement in the festival.
Congratulations to Lance Becatti
the 2026 Starr Award Recipient.
Lance Becatti
Ameriprise Wealth Advisors
Though his long-time friend Jesse Starr (z"l) is no longer with us, one guiding star has remained constant: Lance Becatti of Ameriprise Wealth Advisors. For more than a decade, Ameriprise has proudly served as the annual sponsor of the Starr Award of the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Festival—an enduring commitment that has become part of Jesse’s living legacy.
Lance’s steadfast support has ensured that the Starr Award continues to shine a light on remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of community, leadership, and service. His dedication has allowed the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Festival not only to honor others, but to preserve and elevate the vision Jesse cared for so deeply.
As the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Festival celebrates its 30th Anniversary, it is a profound honor to recognize Lance Becatti as the 2026 Starr Award recipient. Through generosity, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the festival’s mission, Lance has carried Jesse’s legacy forward—championing the arts, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that this meaningful recognition endures for generations to come.
We thank Lance for his continued dedication, for his generosity of spirit, and for honoring a dear friend through a legacy that continues to inspire.
We welcome you to this prestigious circle of past recipients:
2025 - Neil Friedman
2024 - Roxana Levin and Anat Mansour
2023 - Sara Golding Scher and Loni Shelef
2022 - Dan Sultan
2021 - Martha Margolis and Elaine Rubel
2020 - Bill Fleece representing Herman Forbes Charitable Trust and Terri & Robert Tankel
2019 - Ellyn Kessler & Stewart Donnell
2018 - Anita & Herm Greenberg, Myra (Z“l) & Robert (Z“l) Sann
2017 - Stuart Novick & Edward Rudd
2016 - Cathy Gardner, Susan Heyman & Michael White
2015 - Mindy Solomon
2014 - Sharon Feen- Wallace
2013 - Rina Donchin (Z“l)
2012 - Jesse Starr (Z“l)