I remember in the DC area they had a thing for doing this at a local community college. Like you said the ones maning the tables aren't young like the students. These are the older pioneers getting their time in just standing around, sometimes it was an elder that was an underground pioneer. You know one who goes out by himself all the time (supposedly) and always has his time. They are hoping for someone to talk to even for a second. They have their bait lines out. How's school going? Hope you are being a good listener! Wish you the best, glad you didn't get sick on their pretty table display.
Kit