The Port of Beaumont and Popeye the Sailorman recently joined forces to promote literacy in school children as part of the port's community outreach program.

Popeye, the famous cartoon character, was "guest of honor" at the port's 50th anniversary Sail-A-Bration September 18. He arrived a few days early and, accompanied by Olive Oyl, visited Dunbar Elementary School. The port works closely with nearby Dunbar on reading literacy programs. Popeye joined Port Commissioner E.D. "Bo" Alfred and Deputy Port Director Larry Curtin in handing out books for each student in the first and second grades.

"The port is very grateful for the local community for its support throughout our history, and we think it is appropriate to kick off our 50th anniversary celebration by contributing something back to the community," Curtin commented.

Photo caption: Olive Oyl, Popeye and Port Commissioner E.D. "Bo" Alfred hand out books to Dunbar students.