Teletha Benjamin Steps Down

Teletha Benjamin, the creator of the Summer in September Jambalaya Festival & BBQ, will step down in September after 11 years.

Teletha created the event in 2006 as a small fundraiser for Meals on Wheels People Martin Luther King, Jr. Center in 2006. The event has quickly outgrew the Center and has been held at Dawson Park the last several years. Summer in September has raised more than $250,000 over the years to provide hot meals to homebound seniors in northeast Portland.

Summer in September is set for Saturday, Sept. 10, from noon to 6 p.m. at Dawson Park. The menu includes authentic Creole-style jambalaya (a vegetarian version is available) or BBQ Ribs, along with cornbread, salad, beverage and dessert. This multi-generational event will feature a children’s area, games and activities and door prizes, including a flat screen television and a tablet. Admission to the event is free. The meal is $15 for adults or $45 for a group ticket for four. Tickets are available in advance at summerinseptember.org. Meals are available for take-out.