comes together for Feed & Grain’s future
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com
TEMPLETON — Over the weekend, Templeton came together in a way that highlighted the spirit of smalltown America. Two major fundraisers
— “One Town, One Table” on Friday, Sept. 19, and “The Grain Revival” on Sunday, Sept. 21 — not only generated critical funds for the rebuilding of Templeton Feed & Grain (TF&G) but also gave the community a chance to celebrate what the landmark had meant for generations.
The Jermin family, who have been operating TF&G for three generations, had their lives changed after the July 4 fire that destroyed the wooden
grain silos, a familiar sight on Main Street for nearly 80 years. The fire was ruled an act of arson after illegal fireworks sparked an explosive blaze that burned for days and led to the silos’ demolition. Later, authorities confirmed the involvement of four juveniles, with the case turned over to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office.
For many residents, the silos and the business behind them represented
more than a feed store — they embodied Templeton’s identity. Families had posed for photos in front of the towering structures, and generations of local youth had been supported by the Jermins through 4-H, FFA, and countless community causes.
Abby Allen, manager of Templeton Market and Deli and one of the fundraiser organizers, reflected that TF&G was at the heart of Templeton. To her,
Greyhounds, in the 97th chapter of one of San Luis Obispo County’s most storied high school football rivalries. Dating back to 1919, this century-old feud, interrupted only by World War II and near misses during the pandemic, has long been a cornerstone of community pride, with both teams battling for division titles, playoff berths, and even CIF championships.
On this electric Homecoming night for Paso Robles, the
By CAMILLE DEVAUL camille@pasoroblespress.com
PASO ROBLES — Concerns were raised during the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, as parents, former students, and community members urged the district to address controversial social media comments made by Paso Robles High School assistant basketball coach Netta Perkins. The comments, which referenced political commentator Charlie Kirk, have sparked calls from several in the community for the district to investigate and take disciplinary action.
Following the public assassination of Kirk on Sept. 10, Perkins took to social media, making the following comments, according to the public speakers and screenshots circulating on social media:
• “White on white crime let them sit in it!”
• “God does not like ugly!
Charlie Kirk reap wat u sow!”
“I love when people find out I meant every word I said”
Randall Jordan, chairman of the Republican Party of San Luis Obispo County, addressed the board prior to closed session. Jordan said that while his sons went through PRJUSD and were happy with the education they received at the time, he is concerned with the education students are receiving now through the district.
“This employee, I think, needs to be reprimanded and also let go. I don’t think there is any place in this district for someone with that type of vile hate in their heart, especially when they are dealing with our children,” said Jordan.
Former PRJUSD teacher and trustee Dorian Baker agreed with Jordan and wants to see a response from the district and see Perkins receive some kind of discipline for her comments.
“These are not private
PASO ROBLES — The air was filled with anticipation at War Memorial Stadium on Friday, Sept. 19, as the Paso Robles High School Bearcats faced off against their longtime rivals, the Atascadero
Tom Jermin Jr. (fourth from left) and Rick Jermin (middle, in green)
Ricke Evans/PRP
By HAYLEY MATTSON Publisher, Editor in Chief
the Jermins embodied old-fashioned values, the kind of neighbors whose word carried the weight of a promise. She and others on the planning committee felt strongly that the community needed a way to give back, not only to the family but also to honor what the Feed and Grain had represented.
“I personally want to support this community that has such an impact on me personally and my business,” Allen shared with Paso Robles Press “And I just feel like the Templeton Feed and Grain is the heart of that.”
Planning for the two events began with a small group that quickly grew into a well-rounded committee. In just six weeks, the team managed to organize both gatherings. Volunteers and local businesses stepped forward with donations of equipment, printing, beverages, and auction items, many without being asked.
“Honestly, I feel like God had a hand in this because we could not have handpicked a better committee to put on this fundraiser,” said Allen.
On Sept. 19, more than 300 guests filled the historic TF&G site for “One Town, One Table.” A long outdoor dining table was set where
the silos once stood, and neighbors shared a chef-prepared, farm-to-table meal accompanied by local wines and craft beers. The evening included live music from the Mark Adams Band and an auction that offered one-of-a-kind items, helping raise funds for the rebuild.
Two days later, Main Street transformed into a lively street fair for “The Grain Revival.” Families packed 3rd through 6th streets to enjoy barbecue, kids’ games, a dunk tank, a petting zoo, and vendor booths. Hats and merchandise sold out quickly, while live performanc-
es from Monte Mills & His Lucky Horseshoe Band, Shawn Clark Family Band with Ryan Delmore, Archer Mozé, and others kept spirits high.
The classic car show lined Main Street with vintage cars, tractors, and motorcycles — all pre-1975. Allen described the atmosphere as joyful and healing, a chance for the town to reconnect with its grassroots and look forward to what could be rebuilt. She noted that the success of the weekend was measured not only in dollars raised but also in the way it brought people together. Attendees
described both events as positive and energetic.
“I think [the fundraiser] was successful on a lot of different levels too, not just monetarily, but for the chance for the community to really come together and celebrate the feeding grain as it was and hopefully look forward to what it can still be,” Allen said. “And to have some healing as a community because it did mean so much to, in different ways perhaps, but to so many different people. And I feel it got us back to our grassroots.”
If you missed the fundraiser but
still want to contribute to the cause, you can participate in the TF&G’s Commemorative Brick Campaign. For $250, donors can purchase personalized engraved bricks that will eventually be incorporated into the new site. Forms for the bricks can be found at the Templeton Market and Deli or online at TFGfundraiser.com
Currently, TF&G is operating out of a rented 10,000-square-foot warehouse, with nearly all inventor y restored. Plans for rebuilding at the historic 1912 cement building site are still in the works, with the Jermins committed to preserving the legacy of Tom Jermin Sr.’s feed formulas while adapting to the community’s changing needs.
For many, the events served as both a fundraiser and a celebration of what TF&G had meant to Templeton. Organizers admitted they were already considering making the Grain Revival an annual tradition, given the overwhelming turnout and enthusiasm
The proceeds from the fundraisers and brick campaign were dedicated directly to TF&G’s rebuilding efforts, but perhaps just as importantly, the events gave Templeton a chance to show its heart and to remind itself of the strength that comes when neighbors stand together.
Bearcats delivered a commanding performance, rolling over the Greyhounds 49-14 in front of a packed house where every seat was taken and fans stood shoulder-to-shoulder to witness the clash of red and orange.
The rivalry, one of the oldest on California’s Central Coast, thrives on its intensity and tradition. Beyond the field, the annual Paso Robles Rotary Club luncheon fosters camaraderie, bringing players from both schools together to promote sportsmanship and community spirit. For many, the game is personal — alumni often return as coaches, fueling the competition with memories of their own playing days. The series history is a rollercoaster of dominance and heartbreak, with no definitive all-time record but a clear pattern of momentum swings. Paso Robles owned a seven-year win streak from 2016 to 2023, with lopsided victories like 48-7 in 2019, powered by four rushing touchdowns from Gerald Norte, and 42-13 in 2021, sparked by three first-quarter scores. Atascadero broke through in 2023, snapping a six-year drought with a 28-14 thriller at War Memorial Stadium. But Paso reclaimed the upper hand in September 2024 with a 30-15 road win, and Friday’s rematch solidified their resurgence.
The Bearcats (2-3) wasted no time asserting control. On Atascadero’s opening possession, safety Talen Freitas intercepted a pass, setting up a quick 9-yard touchdown pass to Tre Clark. Clark struck again later in the first half with a 29-yard rushing score, putting Paso Robles ahead 14-0. The momentum carried through the night, with the Bearcats’ offense finding a rhythm that had eluded them earlier in the season. Yannie Gelos led the charge, rushing for 116 yards and a touchdown on just five carries, while Kassim Williams added two scores. Blayne Lowry
contributed a 4-yard touchdown run, and the Bearcats’ defense suffocated Atascadero with four interceptions, dismantling the Greyhounds’ misdirection plays.
Atascadero (2-2) showed signs of life before halftime when quarterback Mike Trejo connected with Jacob Perry for a 53-yard pass, setting up Trejo’s 5-yard rushing touchdown. Trejo finished with 142 yards and one touchdown on 13 passes, with Perry hauling in 54 receiving yards, but the spark fizzled as Paso Robles’ relentless attack took over. The Bearcats’ 49-point outburst was their highest since 2016, when they scored 51 points against Frontier, and matched their 2021 output of 49 points in this same rivalry matchup. The second half saw Paso Robles pull away decisively, leaving Atascadero unable to counter the Bearcats’ balanced offensive onslaught and stifling defense.
The game was more than just a football contest
thoughts; they are published statements. In the current climate, they carry weight and consequence,” Baker said. “Posts like these, especially when written by someone employed to serve children, can normalize hostility and even incite violence. In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, we should all recognize the volatility of the moment we are living in. Young people are impressionable and they can be far too easily influenced toward harmful, even horrific actions. Allowing an employee who publicly posts racist statements to continue in a position of trust with our students sends a dangerous message.”
— it was a celebration of community. Paso Robles’ Homecoming festivities set the stage, with the Bearcat Boosters hosting a pre-game tailgate at The Backyard Beer Garden on 13th Street from 4 to 6 p.m. The event, free and open to the public, drew a vibrant crowd of alumni, families, and fans decked out in letterman jackets, cheer sweaters, and Bearcat gear. The Backyard donated a portion of its sales to the Boosters, amplifying the communal spirit. At halftime, the Homecoming court took center stage, with Tre Clark and his girlfriend Anaiah Prado crowned king and queen, adding a personal triumph to Clark’s two-touchdown performance.
The football rivalry between Paso Robles and Atascadero has produced memorable games over the years, with Paso Robles holding a strong edge in recent matchups. In 2011, Paso Robles staged a comeback from a 13-0 deficit to win 28-20. They continued their domi-
She added, “This is not a partisan issue. It is about protecting our children, upholding district standards, and shielding the district from liability.”
PRJUSD parent Vanessa Harris addressed the board during public comment in general session regarding Perkins. Harris said that she reached out to the district about Perkins’ comments and received a response from PRJUSD Superintendent Jennifer Loftus saying that there will be no action taken against Perkins.
“These words are not harmless,” said Harris. “They normalize hate and division. Our children are watching the adults around them.”
Class of 2022 Bearcat and former PRJUSD trustee candi -
Paso
Robles Press
nance in 2015, defeating Atascadero 28-18 and ending their season. The 2018 game was a nail-biter, with Paso Robles securing a 28-24 victory in a thrilling fourth-quarter finish. In 2019, Paso Robles extended their streak with a commanding 48-7 win, marking their fourth consecutive victory over Atascadero. The 2021 season saw two matchups: in May, Paso Robles exploded in the first quarter to win 42-13, and in September, they relied on a run-heavy strategy to secure a 21-6 victory. In 2022, a late touchdown by Bowman sealed a 35-21 Paso Robles win. Atascadero broke their six-year losing streak in 2023, defeating Paso Robles 28-14. However, Paso Robles bounced back in 2024, capitalizing on turnovers for a 30-15 comeback victory. Most recently, in 2025, Paso Robles dominated with a 49-14 homecoming blowout, further cementing their rivalry dominance.
For Paso Robles, they have struggled to find their footing this season; however, the rivalry game felt like a turning point. The offense, long searching for balance, clicked with a seamless mix of run and pass plays that left Atascadero’s defense scrambling. The Bearcats’ defense, meanwhile, was a wall, capitalizing on turnovers to shut down the Greyhounds’ hopes of a comeback. This victory marked Paso Robles’ second straight win, boosting their record to 2-3 and signaling a potential shift in momentum as they head into the heart of their season.
Atascadero, now 2-2, faces a tough challenge next as they host Templeton on Friday at 7 p.m. The Eagles, averaging 33.5 points per game, will test the Greyhounds’ defense, which struggled to contain Paso Robles’ explosive attack. The Bearcats, meanwhile, travel to face Buchanan at 7 p.m. on Friday, a team that has scored at least 31 points in its last three games. Paso Robles will need to sustain their newfound offensive rhythm and defensive tenacity to keep their winning streak alive.
date Hunter Breese jumped into the conversation, asking the district to at least investigate the public posts made by Perkins on social media.
“Tonight I’m asking that our district and our board have some humanity and look into the posts at least and take the proper action because we should not be putting up with anyone calling for political violence on either side,” said Breese.
Trustees and Superintendent Loftus did not respond to the concerns raised by the community during public comment regarding Perkins.
The next Paso Robles Joint Unified School District meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m.
Paso Robles High’s Matthew Amman tries to elude Atascadero defenders during the Homecoming game on Friday, Sept. 19. Photo by Rick Evans/PRP
Members of the Jermin family and SLO County Supervisor John Peschong (far right) pose with members of the stronger together committee at “The Grain Revival” fundraiser. Photo by Rick Evans/PRP
PASO ROBLES
Solo vehicle crash claims life of Bradley man
A 62-year-old Bradley resident, David Upham, was killed Monday afternoon, Sept. 22, in a solo vehicle crash on Nacimiento Lake Drive, west of Reservoir Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Upham was driving a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan eastbound around 2:05 p.m. when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle veered off the north edge of the roadway and struck a wooden fence. The van then caught fire.
Emergency personnel extricated Upham and attempted lifesaving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. No other occupants were in the vehicle.
CHP reported that alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in the crash, which remains under investigation by the Templeton Area office.
Three arrested after attempted burglary in Paso Robles
On Friday, Sept. 19, the Paso Robles Police Department responded to an attempted residential burglary in the 100 block of Riverbank Lane. The suspects fled in a vehicle but were quickly stopped by officers.
Police identified the three men as Jorge Ayala Morales, 25, Esteban Carnedal, 21, and Brandon Guerrero Pineda, 24, all from Los Angeles. Officers recovered suspected stolen property and burglary tools and confirmed the suspects were also involved in an earlier interrupted burglary in Atascadero.
All three were arrested for burglary and conspiracy to commit a crime and booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail.
David Malewitz named assistant city manager in Paso Robles
Following a nationwide recruitment, the City of Paso Robles has appointed David Malewitz as its new assistant city manager. Malewitz brings more than a decade of municipal leadership experience, most recently serving as city manager for Eloy, Arizona.
During his time in Eloy, he managed a $109 million budget, oversaw major infrastructure projects, and guided a staff of more than 130 employees. His experience includes leading capital projects such as hospital construction, manufacturing development, and water and wastewater improvements.
“We are very pleased to welcome David to Paso Robles,” said City Manager Chris Huot. “His demonstrated leadership, infrastructure expertise, and experience across a broad spectrum of
municipal operations make him a tremendous addition to our team. He brings a collaborative approach that will help drive innovation and strengthen services for our residents.”
“Paso Robles is a vibrant and growing community with a strong commitment to public service and quality of life,” said Malewitz. “I’m honored to join the team and look forward to working with staff, elected officials, and community partners to help move the city forward.”
Malewitz holds a Master of Public Administration from Virginia Tech and has completed executive training at Harvard’s Kennedy School. He is relocating to Paso Robles and will begin his new role in the coming weeks.
Appointments open for free chipping program in Paso Robles
The San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, in partnership with Paso Robles Fire & Emergency Services, is offering a free chipping program to help residents create and maintain the 100-foot defensible space required around homes.
The program, funded by the State of California, will run Monday, Sept. 22, through Tuesday, Sept. 23, and is available to properties within Moderate to High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. A licensed contractor will chip properly stacked vegetation and haul it away. Reservations are limited to the first 50 properties, and residents are encouraged to sign up in advance to ensure materials meet requirements. For guidelines, stacking details, or to reserve an appointment, visit chipperday. com/slofsc
Paso Robles City Council advances major road repair program
At its Sept. 16 meeting, the Paso Robles City Council approved a rolling Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and awarded contracts to accelerate neighborhood road repairs and maintenance projects.
The new CIP, funded by Measure I-24, increases annual street repair spending to about $15.4 million — triple the average of the past decade. Priority areas include the Orchard Bungalow neighborhood, downtown streets between Pine and Spring, Zone 3A, and Vine Street. The plan’s rolling structure allows the City to adjust priorities every two years and respond quickly to emerging needs.
The Council also awarded two contracts: $1.62 million for full pavement overlays in the Sunset, Panorama, and Crestline neighborhoods (funded by Measure J-20), and $1.6 million for slurry
seal maintenance on west-side streets, including 10th, 12th, 13th, Olive, and Pacific.
Funded by voter-approved sales tax measures J-20 and I-24, these projects reflect the city’s commitment to fiscal accountability, safety, and long-term infrastructure investment.
‘My Military Journey’ art exhibition to honor servicemembers
The Master Sgt. Petry Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), in partnership with Studios on the Park, will present “My Military Journey,” an art exhibition featuring works by servicemembers, veterans, and Department of Defense civilians.
“Our aim is to amplify the voices of those who serve in a way that words alone cannot,” said Amy Phillips, MSG Petry Chapter president, an Army veteran and a current Army civilian working at Fort Hunter Liggett. “Art becomes a bridge — connecting the military experience with the broader community through emotion, story, and shared humanity.”
The show opens Jan. 10, 2026, with a reception coinciding with Fort Hunter Liggett’s 85th anniversary. The exhibition will run throughout January, showcasing visual works across mediums that reflect themes of service, resilience, and transformation.
A call for artists is now open, inviting submissions from current and former servicemembers and DoD civilians. Submission guidelines are available at ausa.org/chapters/ msg-leroy-arthur-petr y-chapter
Studios on the Park, located in downtown Paso Robles, will host the exhibition, offering the community an opportunity to connect with the stories and experiences of those who serve through the power of art.
ATASCADERO
Vegetation fire contained near Santa Margarita
A vegetation fire has broken out along the southbound side of the freeway just south of Santa Margarita, burning in a northward direction. A vegetation fire has broke out along the southbound side of the freeway just south of Santa Margarita, burning in a northward direction. The fire was quickly contained by first
responders.The fire was quickly contained by first responders.
9th Annual Showdown Cornhole Tournament set for Sept. 27
The Atascadero Knights of Columbus will host the 9th Annual Showdown Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Sunken Gardens in downtown Atascadero. Sponsored by the City of Atascadero, the popular community event runs all day, with proceeds benefiting the North County Adaptive Sports and Recreation Program and the Central Coast Zoo.
Registration opens at 8 a.m. with play beginning at 9:30 a.m. The entry fee is $80 per two-person team. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in both Social and Advanced brackets, along with special contests for best costume, “Most Points 4 Bags,” and the “Air Mail” toss. Food will be available on site from Tacos Marisco El Gordo, with downtown restaurants also nearby.
The event is free to attend. For registration and details, visit VisitAtascadero.com / cornhole
City and high school launch ‘Orange & Grey Fridays’ in Downtown Atascadero
The City of Atascadero and Atascadero High School are teaming up with downtown restaurants to host “Orange & Grey Fridays” during Greyhound home football games, beginning Friday, Sept. 26.
Fans wearing orange and grey can enjoy a 10% discount at participating restaurants before, during, or after the games. Discounts apply to food at Barley & Boar, Cielo Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, Street Side Ale House, Colony Sandwich Company, and Wild Fields Brewhouse. Kula Hawaiian Kitchen & Winery will offer 10% off beverages.
The promotion is available on home game nights: Sept. 26, Oct. 10, Oct. 24, and Oct. 31. With improved downtown parking and easy tunnel access to the high school field, organizers say it’s the perfect spot to gather before kickoff.
Team apparel can be purchased online at Th e Mascot Shop ( thema sco t shop.jostens.com /1002997 ) with 10% of sales supporting student programs.
For more information or to join as a restaurant participant, visit Atascadero.org
For more info: https://templetonhills.adventistfaith.org/
COMMUNITY CHURCH OF ATASCADERO, UCC 5850 Rosario Ave. Service 10 a.m. (in person and on Zoom) Pastor Heather Branton (805) 466-9108 atascaderoucc.org
ST. ROSE OF LIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH
820 Creston Road., Paso Robles; (805) 238-2218- Parish Office open Mon-Fri 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; website: www.saintrosechurch.org; Mass times; Daily Mass- 8:30 a.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.; Tues. 7 p.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 5 p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m. & 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass at 1 p.m. & 6 p.m. Father Rodolfo Contreras.
SANTA MARGARITA DE CORTONA CATHOLIC CHURCH
22515 “H” St, Santa Margarita (805)438-5383 Parish Office hours:WedThur 9am-12pm Mass Times: Saturday Vigil Mass:5pm Sunday:10am Wed-Fri 10am Adoration Wed following Mass Confessions: Saturday 4pm and Sunday 9am
RESURRECTION ECUMENICAL MINISTRY offers an interdenominational communion service each Wednesday evening at 7:00, beginning January 22. Please join us at 9005 Santa Lucia in Atascadero. For more information call or text Rev. Dr. Cynthia Gaw at (828) 406-7253 .
CONGREGATION OHR TZAFON"THE NORTHERN LIGHT"
Located at 2605 Traffic Way, Atascadero, CA 93422. Friday Night Service 6:30 pm 805-466-0329 congregationohrtzafon.org
BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH – ELCA
Welcoming all of God’s beloved. We gather for worship Sunday mornings, 9:30 at 295 Old County Rd. Templeton. Sermon podcast is at The Little Brick Church. Sunday School during the sermon. Bible study, Wednesdays at 11 in the community hall. Pastor: Diana Edis. Find out more at blctempleton.org
HIGHLANDS CHURCH
Sunday service at 9am & 10:30am. Monday Young Adults Group at 7pm. Wednesday Youth Group at 6:30pm. We build community so more people know the hope and joy of Jesus. 215 Oak Hill Rd, Paso Robles (805) 226-5800 highlandsadventure.org
Be included in the Atascadero News & Paso Robles Press Worship Directory for an entire year at $175
Last chance for tickets to Atascadero Chamber’s Sip & Shop
The Atascadero Chamber of Commerce will host its Fall Bounty Friday Sip & Shop on Friday, Sept. 26 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in downtown Atascadero. More than 25 local businesses and wineries are participating in the rain-or-shine event.
Tickets are $30 through Thursday, Sept. 25, and $35 the day of the event. Online sales close at noon on Sept. 26, with limited in-person tickets available. Each ticket includes a Sip & Shop wine glass for sampling wines and
craft beverages while exploring shops and boutiques.
Event coordinator Montse Cross said the Sip & Shop offers a festive evening for couples, friends, or those looking to meet new people — and a chance to start early holiday shopping.
Participating beverage vendors include DAOU Vineyards, Firestone Walker Brewing Co., Eberle Winery, Niner Wine Estates, Peachy Canyon, and more. Downtown businesses range from boutiques and jewelers to restaurants and artisan shops.
RECORD
CSALAS 1952-2025
arolyn Salas, lovingly known as “Bo Deenz,” “Granny C,” and
ROBERT E. BROWN 1949-2025
Robert Elliott Brown, better known as Bob, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, after a 5-year battle with cancer at his home in Scottsdale, AZ. He was 76 years old. Bob was born in Frankfort, Germany, on August 11, 1949, at Rein Main Air Base Hospital, where his father was stationed after WWII. His parents were Alan W. Brown and Betty N.
RUDY G. ROWLETT 1947-2025
Rudy Gene Rowlett, 77, of Paso Robles, CA. passed away unexpect-
“Aunt Carolyn,” passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, at the age of 73. She was born on March 28, 1952, in Indiana to Ralph and Margie Stiens.
Carolyn was a vibrant, creative, and adventurous soul who embraced life with joy and determination. She had a passion for travel, photography, and interior design, and was always looking forward to her next adventure. Her strength, independence, and boundless love for her family will forever inspire those who
(Stoalabarger) Brown. Growing up with a father in the Air Force, Bob, along with his brother Alan and sister Beth, lived in many places, including Roswell, NM, Rapid City, SD, Denver, CO, and Fairbanks, Territory of Alaska. He lived in Alaska when it became the 49th State. In 1964, his dad retired from the Air Force, and the family settled in Victorville, California, where he attended Victor Valley High School (VVHS). Bob was an avid swimmer in his teen years and lettered on the VVHS water polo and swim team, where he set the school record in the breaststroke. Bob met the love of his life, Sharon Benge, and they both graduated from VVHS in 1967. He and Sharon went on to attend Arizona State University (ASU), where Bob graduated with a degree in business in 1971. Bob and Sharon soon followed Sharon’s parents to
edly on Saturday, August 16, 2025, in San Luis Obispo, CA. Born in Atascadero, CA, in 1947 to Rudolph and Imogene Holstine Rowlett (Thixton), he was raised in Paso Robles, graduating with the Bearcat class of 1965.
After high school, he attended Cuesta College before joining the US Navy, where he served for four years. He returned home to Paso, where he was co-owner of Sierra Exploration, a water well drilling business, and then, along with his wife
were fortunate enough to know her.
In 1984, Carolyn moved from Indiana to California, where she began a new chapter of her life. While working at PG&E, she met the love of her life, Ed Salas. They married in Indiana in 1987 and shared nearly three decades of laughter, love, and countless cherished memories until Ed’s passing in 2014. Together, they built a beautiful life, and they are now reunited in eternal peace.
Beyond her devotion to
San Luis Obispo, California, where they married on April 17, 1970, and continued that loving marriage for 55 plus years! Bob and Sharon had two sons, Jeff and Andy. Bob’s first venture in self-employment was a record business in 1971, called the Record Exchange on Foothill Blvd in San Luis Obispo. Bob later sold that business to start Sunshine Donuts in 1973 with his high school and college friend, Mike Taylor. Bob’s family life was his biggest priority and joy, raising two boys and teaching them how to water ski, snow ski, and play sports, and later coaching them in soccer and both Little League and Babe Ruth baseball. Bob, with the help of his friends Jerry Foster and Noel Desjardins, were able to get Atascadero’s first Little League charter started in 1982.
Whether it was spending time at Lake Nacimiento,
Barbara, they bought the Sweet Shoppe Deli. Shortly after that, he went to work for Robert Heely Inc., as a company foreman in the oil fields for over 30 years. He then worked offshore for Brinderson before retiring. Rudy was a classic car enthusiast and enjoyed participating in all kinds of sports. His greatest joy was coaching his boys and watching his grandkids in their chosen sports. He was a fan of the Las Vegas Raiders, and like his dad, the Los Angeles Dodgers.
family, Carolyn enjoyed sharing her talents and passions with others. She had an eye for beauty, whether capturing it behind a camera, bringing it to life through design, or creating warm and welcoming spaces for her loved ones. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her daughter, her four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who she affectionately called her their “Grand-peeps.” She is
catching a professional baseball game, or just sitting in the backyard debating friends by the pool, Bob knew how to entertain and have a good time. Bob made countless lifelong friends and touched the lives of many people. Everyone liked Bob and his laugh, and anyone that knew Bob has a great “Bob Story” to tell in true Brown fashion.
Bob sold Sunshine Donuts in 1995 and took some time off to travel the country with Sharon. They visited all the big-league baseball parks (Bob always had a love for baseball) and many historic cities, including Boston, New York, Washington, DC, Chicago, and Atlanta.
In 1997, Bob and Sharon moved to Scottsdale, AZ, to take advantage of the lower cost of living and enjoy retirement life. Bob enjoyed playing golf (particularly liars’ dice after the round) and rolling them at the craps tables in Tahoe. Bob
He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Marissa Smiley; his parents, Rudy and Imogene; and his stepfather, Clyde Thixton.
Rudy leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Barbara (Nielsen) Rowlett. Sons Paul (Leslee) Smiley III and Jason (Raquel) Smiley. Rudy Aaron (Angie) Rowlett and Jared (Lynn) Rowlett. His grandchildren Wyatt, Gage, Shilo, Shayne, Ryann, Garrett, Dyllan (Kaley), and Jasmine Smiley. Lexie, Nathan, and Ian Rowlett, Kennice (Andy)
also survived by her brothers, as well as her cherished nephew and niece.
Carolyn’s life will be celebrated on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Chapel of the Roses in Atascadero, with a graveside service to follow at Atascadero District Cemetery. The service will begin at 10:30 a.m.
Her family finds comfort in knowing that Carolyn’s adventurous spirit lives on in all the lives she touched. As she often reminded those around her: “Life is meant to be lived—make it beautiful.”
would also enjoy an ASU football game from time to time. Bob traveled to Florida to spend time with his brother, Alan, and his family, and often traveled back to California to spend time with family and friends.
Remaining to cherish Bob’s memory are his wife Sharon, son Jeff (Tracy), son Andy (Michelle), brother Alan (Susan), sister Beth, grandchildren Maddie, Megan, Jack, J.T., A.J., Brice, and Colton, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, along with many lifelong friends. Bob lived his life to the fullest and will be missed, but his memory will never be forgotten, as we say goodbye for a little while.
Preceding Bob in death were his parents, Alan and Betty Brown.
Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 1, at 11 am, at 1525 Templeton Rd, Templeton, CA.
Cooper, Jordan, Olivia, Jaxon, and Bennett Rowlett. His great-grandchildren, Wren and Frankie Smiley, and Emilia and Callum Cooper. His sister, Jacki (Ray) Morrison, and brother, Randy (Laura) Rowlett. Sister-inlaw Kathy (Tim) Johnson and brother-in-law David Nielsen and their families, including more than 20 nieces and nephews, as well as a large extended family and lifelong friends.
A celebration honoring Rudy has yet to be decided.
DEATHS
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
The Preserve at Santa Margarita Ranch launches first heritage homesites
The historic Santa Margarita Ranch has unveiled “The Preserve at Santa Margarita Ranch,” introducing its first 38 heritage homesites within a 3,621-acre agricultural conservation
easement. The sites will be officially available starting Sept. 23, as part of a long-term effort to preserve the ranch’s open space and agricultural legacy.
The homesites, each no larger than two acres, are designed to maintain the surrounding oak woodlands and native grasslands. Residents will enjoy panoramic views, clean air, and rural tranquility while remaining just 10 miles from San Luis Obispo and Atascadero amenities. Phase One represents the first step toward a total
of 111 homesites integrated into the 14,000-acre ranch, which includes nearly 1,000 acres of sustainably grown vineyards.
Owned by local ranchers Doug Filipponi, Rob Rossi, and Karl Wittstrom, the project balances residential development with long-term agricultural and environmental stewardship.
“As farmers and ranchers ourselves, we have a vested interest in preserving this land’s rich heritage and natural character,” Wittstrom said. “These
homesites will help keep this beautiful ranch locally owned and viable for generations to come.”
SLO County Airport to close for 55 hours for taxiway improvements
The San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP) will close to all air traffic from 7 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, until 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, for critical airfield improvements. The project focuses on reconfiguring key intersections of the airport’s primary taxiway
to enhance aircraft movement, operational efficiency, and safety.
The $16.5 million project is funded primarily through a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant, with matching contributions from SBP. Officials say the upgrades will strengthen the airport’s long-term operational capabilities and support future growth.
SBP officials thank the community and stakeholders for their patience during the temporary closure.
CAROLYN
BELIA MARIE LEMOS, 90, of Grover Beach passed away on September 5th 2025. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
CHRISTINA SUSAN BRYANT LUCAS, 76, of Los Osos passed away on September 10th 2025. Services are in the care of Marshall-Spoo Sunset Funeral Chapel of Grover Beach.
Friends of the Paso Robles Library
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Support the Library through a Friends of the Library membership, starting as low as $10/year. The Friends of the Library appreciates donations, which are either added to the Library’s collection or used to generate considerable funds toward the purchase of new books, library materials, programs, services, etc. Support the Library in a 100% volunteer-run retail environment. We are seeking volunteers to assist with Gift Shop sales, book donation sorting, and to provide book sale support. Due to limited storage space and staff, we are only able to accept two boxes or two bags of materials per household per day. Cash donations always welcome!
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