Beth El Synagogue will host the world premiere of Bridging War and Hope, a Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) documentary, 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20 at the synagogue, 5224 W. 26th St., St. Louis Park. The film follows the Minnesota National Guard Agribusiness Development Team during its recent deployment to Afghanistan.
The film’s producer, Luke Heikkila, will offer introductory remarks. Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion with Heikkila and members of the Agribusiness Development Team. (The Star Tribune featured the film in Wednesday’s edition.)
Beth El Synagogue adopted the unit, which includes 23 Minnesotans — who teach agriculture in hazardous rural areas — and 34 soldiers from the Mississippi National Guard, who provide security. Over the past six months, Beth El members have sent 70 care packages to the unit; together with Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Miss., they also sent a golf simulator.
The screening is free and open to the public. For information, call 952-873-7300 or e-mail: mweisberg@bethelsynagogue.org, or visit: bethelsynagogue.org/nationalguard.