Scrappy little Jean’s Place is fighting back against the very idea of extinction. The muffins sold out early.

And yes, they will ship their incredible (and huge) muffins anywhere if people don’t mind the shipping fees. I can testify that they are worth every penny.

For the second day in the row, the take-out and delivery orders came rolling in, a testament to the powerful bond between this little restaurant and their community. They are feeling feisty and hopeful, working hard from dawn to dark. They take orders until 7 p.m.

Their famous muffins were all sold out by 10:30 a.m. (518 686 – 3258).

Jean’s Place is, for me, a metaphor for many things. Individuality versus the coldness of corporatism, community, honor, and empathy.

This sense of intimacy and being known is what is in danger of being lost by government decree, and what can also be saved.

When I called this morning, Kelsie had re-bounded, her usual upbeat and sassy voice and manner had returned. She is not easily defeated.

She even answered by saying, “Hello, Jean’s Place.” If you should happen to call, make sure she is cheerful.

Kelly and Kevin as labored for years to help their community, donate to local causes, be a loving haven for so many people. This matters.

Nobody cares – except the workers –  if Applebee’s closes a franchise, but the closing of Jean’s Place hit a deep nerve, not only in the battered town of Hoosick Falls (the proud home of Grandma Moses) but all over the country, judging from my mail and their phone calls.

Kelsie didn’t have any muffins left for me to photograph, but she took out some of the pies her mother and uncle made this morning. I forgot to ask if those can be shipped.

People are asking me if they can buy gift certificates for the restaurant, and they can. But speaking only for myself, I don’t think that is a viable long-term solution for any restaurant. And they aren’t looking for gifts, but for food orders. That’s what they do.

The people who live around here understand what a gathering place like Jean’s means to a community. They are standing up not only for Jean’s but for them, for all of us.

There will soon be a lot of people to try and support. If you are thinking of take-out, and are local, (I went today for lunch), you can call 518-686- 3258.