The University of Maine will thank Black Bear Nation as UM student-athletes and coaches will visit three Hannaford supermarkets in Maine.

The event is free and offers an opportunity for fans to interact with key members of the Black Bear athletic program. All Summer Caravan stops include a barbecue lunch with drinks and soda as well as a chance to get autographs.

Each session is from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dates and locations are: Thursday, 295 Forest Ave., Portland; Aug. 13, Waterville, Kennedy Memorial Drive (190 JFK Plaza); and Aug. 27, 225 High Street, Ellsworth.

Among those scheduled to appear at each of the stops are interim athletic director Blake James, men’s hockey coach Tim Whitehead, football coach Jack Cosgrove, men’s basketball coach Ted Woodward, women’s basketball coach Ann McInerney, and student-athletes and support staff.