There are few places to pop in and order a casual meal in West Tisbury, especially in the winter, and this year we will lose the oldest of the eateries. At least for a while.

The Plane View Restaurant at the airport will be serving breakfasts and lunches until some time in January, when proprietor Bob Jackson retires. His lease will expire Jan. 31.

When the news was first announced, dozens of inquiries were received about taking control of the 2,500-square foot space. The FAA, the federal agency that oversees airports, requires that a restaurant be there, on site. The list of potential candidates has been narrowed down, and the announcement of a new restaurateur should be coming soon.

Interestingly, what the lease offers to prospective candidates is one big empty room. The new operator will have to provide his own stove and fridge, tables and chairs, forks and spoons. Of course, the new people will probably buy or rent most or all of the current furnishings and appliances from Mr. Jackson, who is retiring. But not necessarily.

I recall one time eating an elegant dinner in an airport somewhere, but I can’t remember where it was. I’m just glad that someday, someone will be serving my Sunday brunch pancakes again, with a view overlooking the arrivals and departures of people who travel by private aircraft. What could be more elegant?

Check out the library’s website for all the holiday-themed events this coming week. Everything from Nerf weapon warfare, to Lego creations to T-shirt design. The annual holiday party is Saturday, Dec. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Our neighbor Susan Wasserman will discuss her book, Stepping Off the Boat, Thursday, Dec. 11, at 4:30 p.m. The book features many old photographs of the summer colony at North Manitou Island.

Don’t forget the town’s own holiday party at the Grange Hall on Thursday, Dec. 11, at 5:30 p.m.

Libby Fielder reports that the First Congregational Church will hold its annual Christmas Faire on Saturday, Dec. 13, beginning at 9:30 a.m. You will find wreaths, swag, baked goods and hot soup.

If you lived in this neck of the woods in the 80’s, you may remember David Foster, who stayed in the Whitings’ coop at the time. We have received word that David, also known as Hoss, died this past fall. He had been living in California.

Birthday greetings this week go to Nelson Sigelman on Saturday, Dec. 6; Marjorie Spitz and Sara Vail on Sunday, Dec., 7; Patty Codding on Monday, Dec. 9; Kara Taylor and Doug Cabral on Dec. 10; and Ellen Fitzpatrick and Barbara Silk on Dec. 11.

Congratulations and happy wedding anniversary to Jerry and Margaret Gallagher on Thursday, Dec. 11.