The most exciting award at the beautiful Roosevelt-Kennedy Dinner on May 20 was presented to the remarkable team of Carol and Ed Koons. Both of them have contributed to Democracy in Placer County for many years, and they continue to take on active roles in our community.
Carol Koons serves alongside Pat Ferguson in leading Auburn Indivisible, and she co‑chairs the Social Justice Team at the Sierra Foothills Unitarian Universalists (SFUU) The team’s work includes coordinating election‑advocacy efforts, supporting the Latino Leadership Council, assisting the Auburn Interfaith Food Closet, and contributing annually to the NorCal Resist Holiday Gift Drive.
She also volunteers with NorCal Resist’s Court Watch program supporting individuals attending mandatory ICE check-ins at the federal building in Sacramento. She collaborates with local allies to respond to NorCal Resist requests for assistance to families in need.
In addition, Carol leads Public School Strong, a nonpartisan group focused on the Placer Union High School District. The organization advocates for strong, inclusive public education that protects and expands diversity, equity, and access in classrooms, curriculum, and staffing. The group monitors school board meetings, reports board actions to its 200+ members, and supports candidates who reflect these values.
Ed Koons was President of AADC in 2019 and guided the organization through the difficult COVID‑19 years. Among many other projects, he reestablished the club’s annual scholarship program for graduating high‑school seniors and led the club’s organizing efforts against the attempted recall of Governor Newsom, including the now‑famous 28‑foot banner displayed every weekend leading up to the election.
After completing his term as AADC President, Ed remained deeply involved. In support of Proposition 50, he repurposed the large blue banner and organized a volunteer crew to display it throughout the six weeks before Election Day. He also played a key role in the club’s fundraising efforts and negotiated the favorable lease for the AADC’s current headquarters.
This award is in memory of Molly Ivins, an acclaimed American Journalist, author, and political commentator. She was famous for her razor-sharp wit, populist political columns, and unapologetic advocacy for liberal causes.
Congratulations Carol and Ed Koons!
