LBFE brings Edward Asner to Minneapolis

For Immediate Release
August 31, 2009

LBFE brings Edward Asner to Minneapolis for screening and discussion of aging issues

Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly (LBFE) is bringing film and television star Edward Asner to the Riverview Theater in Minneapolis on September 29 for a special screening of his latest movie UP, and an on-stage discussion about the issues of aging and intergenerational relationships.

Mr. Asner plays the role of Carl Frederickson in UP, a movie that has some surprisingly complex messages about the issues of aging, grief and loss, regret, adapting to change, and communication between older and younger people. Through this event, LBFE hopes to make people more aware of these issues as the population in Minnesota gets older along with the baby boom generation.

“UP expresses some wonderful sentiments about aging and intergenerational relationships, and has been reaching audiences in numbers we couldn’t hope to reach on our own,” said Therese Cain, executive director of LBFE. “We’re very honored Mr. Asner could be with us to talk about his movie and the issues in person.”

Older adults staying connected in their communities never been more important, as the baby boom generation begins turning 65. Over the next 20 years, Minnesota’s older population will double. The number of people over age 85 will nearly triple. According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services, 57,000 people over the age of 65 currently live alone in the Twin Cities right now. Many of these people are at risk of becoming socially and emotionally isolated, reducing quality of life and making them less able to remain in their own homes.

Call (612) 746-0752 during business hours for tickets. If ordered before 9/23, tickets are $15, and $25 for a pair. Checks and credit cards are accepted. Price at the door is $20, check or cash only. Dress for the event is casual.

LBFE helps older adults in the Twin Cities stay connected in their communities through companionship programs, mental health services and social events. LBFE has served the Twin Cities since 1971.

Edward Asner is perhaps best known for his comedic and dramatic crossover as the gruff but soft-hearted journalist Lou Grant, the role he originated on the landmark TV news room comedy The Mary Tyler Moore Show and continued in the newspaper-set drama Lou Grant. Mr. Asner has been the recipient of seven Emmy Awards and 16 nominations, as well as five Golden Globe Awards.