When we launched this show, we promised to make you think—and lately, the feedback has been loud and clear. Two recent stories have triggered strong viewer reactions: the Linda Paulding towing incident in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) narrowly escaping a state audit.
Let’s start with Linda Paulding. While she was hospitalized, her car was towed from The Juice’s parking lot—resulting in a bill of over $1,000. The Juice hasn’t responded to our repeated requests for comment, though Paulding’s nephew, Courtney, claims they have reached out to Dave’s Towing in hopes of finding a solution. Viewers didn’t hold back online.
On NBC Palm Springs’ Facebook page, Michelle wrote:
“It’s kind of nonsense. This is exactly what gets people fired up, resulting in a poor reputation and loss of future revenue when people refuse to patronize their establishment. Not the kind of publicity that builds repeat business.”
The Juice is still invited to come on the show to address the issue directly.
Meanwhile, the fallout from CVUSD avoiding a full state audit continues. Many of you felt an audit was necessary—and were shocked that the district resisted so strongly. Others questioned why some members of the state committee didn’t vote at all.
Alfredo Garcia commented:
“A no vote at all sounds like everybody is involved and will be affected if the audit keeps going.”
Claudia Gomez added:
“This is embarrassing for our community. Children only get hurt in the end.”
While some, like Johnny Ortiz, defended the district, suggesting Democrats already knew CVUSD was in compliance, the public record shows otherwise. Four Democrats and three Republicans voted in favor of the audit—meaning Democrats made up the majority of yes votes.
Even our inbox lit up. One viewer, Cliff, claimed:
“CVUSD and the corrupt Democrats in Sacramento have their own agenda.”
Another, Colin, blamed the state’s political structure:
“That’s what happens when you have a supermajority.”
As host Fred Roggin put it, “If you have nothing to hide, why wouldn’t you welcome a third-party audit?”
And in one last development, Sylvia Paz has stepped down from the CVUSD board—timing that some viewers found curious.
Two stories. Two very different controversies. But one common thread: our viewers want accountability—and transparency.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
June 22, 2025
