Despite the sincere efforts of professional marketers, it is hard to say what makes some things flash and fade (when was the last time you heard someone use the term “Groovy” except immersed in irony?) while others take on a life of their own in our culture.
It was not long ago that “Twilight” was definitely more than a quality of fading sunlight. More recently, vampires have been replaced by zombies. The stars of “Night of the Living Dead,” its multiple sequels, and movie remakes have been staggering about for a number of years, of course. But now, zombies have been connected with Jane Austen and appear in the UMPI science curriculum (!) … we clearly have moved beyond campy movies.
You never quite imagine that you will encounter a real live (?) zombie face to face, except perhaps at Halloween. Don’t be so sure! Zombie-like behavior has been regularly reported on Saturday mornings at the Presque Isle Farmers’ Market outside the Aroostook Centre Mall.
Ever since the white van from Goughan’s Berry Farm started showing up loaded with gorgeous, deep red berries, venders have noted the presence of “strawberry zombies” who stagger from their car with single minded purpose, arms outstretched. We hear them mutter low moans. Body control is marginal. We see customers slip their hand into a berry box to sample “just one” as they make their way around the perimeter to visit the other venders, then somewhat sheepishly circle back to the van when they discover the box is somehow empty. They claim to want to purchase breakfast for the family, but within minutes, bright red juice stains their lips and fingers; in some cases, it covers the front of their shirts as well. Some lock the berry boxes in the trunk in a sincere effort to make it home with something to show for their shopping.
There is no cure for a “strawberry zombie.” S/he remains afflicted as long as ripe berries remain to be purchased. Attempts to gain control of their appetites fail in the face of the myriads of delightful treats that await. Combined with rhubarb in a pie, stirred into a pint of fresh yogurt, crowning a short-cake under a puff of whipped cream, or straight from the box — you might as well feed your demon.
Stop by the Presque Isle Farmers’ Market between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to see what all the fuss is about.
The Presque Isle Farmers’ Market contact person Gail Maynard, who operates Orchard Hill Farm in Woodland with her husband, Stan. Their phone number is 498-8541 and their email is orchhill@gmail.com.
