In the late 80s Dwight Neron hoped to revive “Curb Service” on Townline that once flourished as the former popular Elmdale Lunch. Elmdale Lunch at one point in time was THE hang out for Carleton Place’s local teenagers. Neron’s dream was to have his new business remind everyone of the nostalgic TV sitcom Happy Days and even set up a real curb service where people could get served in their cars. He even wanted the outdoor waitresses to wear roller skates!
Dwight, who was a full time hairdresser, and his partner Dennis Routhus, owner of then Angelo’s restaurant just outside Smiths Falls had so much hope for this location. Curb Service went off to a roaring start with 18 employees, and one of them even being Olivia Schnaufer who was the original owner and cook of Elmdale Lunch. Unfortunately, it closed within the year.
When Neron was asked by reporter Dave Pascal what he would do to increase business in Carleton Place he had the same answer I have been getting 25 years later from local people. We need more outside shoppers in town, as local customers are not enough to sustain the town’s economy.
Neron said tourism was the key to increasing business in Carleton Place. We needed more awareness about our parklands, and even providing camping facilities would be a start to entice summer tourists.
He and I both agree that the main attraction we have is right here in our backyard–The Mississippi. Dwight’s final words in The Carleton Place Canadian were that we should not be directing all our efforts to industry, but instead use what we have here to get those feet shopping and enjoying our beloved town.
It’s 25 years later and what are we still waiting for? A hero to change everything?
Files from the Carleton Place Canadian files from the Carleton Place and Beckwith Heritage Museum
lindaseccaspina 
Hi Linda, I can remember having burgers at the Curb Service and I also remember having the same discussion with Dwight. Some things never change
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25 years Tim.. 25 years and nothing has changed.. Yowsers!
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