Caroline Simmons addresses the crowd at the Stamford Government Center after being sworn in as the first female mayor of the city of Stamford. This was really a statement about the dawning of a new age, very much in keeping with Narcisos entire aesthetic, the idea that true simplicity can be absolutely, exquisitely beautiful. [36][37] Six months after being reappointed, Jankowski announced he would step down from the position. In their final debate. On Linares and Simmons's wedding day, state Democrats and Republicans were so at odds with each other that Connecticut had been without a budget for over three months, the longest fiscal impasse in state history. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. display: block; The swearing-in ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. from the Stamford Government . I remember how cool and bold it was, breaking all bridal rules in the most elegant way possible. Watch Live at 7:00 PM: The U.S. and the Holocaust, a film by Ken Burns | Screening & Panel Discussion . Loved by over 2 million couples Free shipping, price matching, and more And world class customer service Wedding guest 101 (You'll thank us later) View all Do's and Don'ts for Wedding Guests [5] While in college, Simmons played on the varsity lacrosse team and spent a semester studying abroad at the American University in Egypt. Dont you worry, Bysiewicz said. Simmons, 35, a Democrat, claimed victory . Not for everybodybut for her. Simmons has a successful model, having been raised by parents who come from opposite sides of the aisle. It was a high-profile, at times hostile and expensive race, with Simmons and Valentine each raising hundreds of thousands of dollars during their campaigns. Someone I loved very much asked me to make the most important dress of her life. That life turned out to be much shorter than anyone expected at the timeBessette-Kennedy was 33 when she and her husband died in a private plane crash in July 1999. Reggie: She said, Show the dress. Fashion designer Cynthia Rowley: I was so awestruck at the time with its simplicity. Kargman: The spotlight that A-listers have to endurethe dress was a chess move away from that. Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Also, whos going to win the Super Bowl and what does it mean for Connecticut? The reception and dancing to follow will be held at the Reading Country Club from 5:30 to 10:30. The best pitcher in MLB? Twenty-five years after Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy hands down changed the wedding dress game, the people who watched it happen look back. I burned the eggs, he said. building a betterand more civilConnecticut to live, work, and play. Brianna Gurciullo covers local government and politics for the Stamford Advocate. She understood that an understatement was the loudest statement in the room. The couple was at Simmons Bridge Street apartment on the day of the surprise. Simmons, co-chairwoman of the commerce committee, has written a number of pro-business bills, including legislation that broadens the scope of angel investors and another that requires the state to develop a logo that businesses can use to promote their Connecticut-made products. A Stamford native, he was a three-sport high school star in the city. [6][7] At the Department of Homeland Security, Simmons served as Director of Special Projects in the Counterterrorism Coordinator's Office and traveled to Kabul many times for her work. Her dress was perfect for where she got married. I think in a perfect scenario, our wedding gift to them would be a bipartisan budget, said House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, a Democrat. Caroline Simmons greets voters outside Stillmeadow Elementary School in Stamford Tuesday morning, Nov. 8, 2016. Quinones had previously served on Stamford's Board of Representatives since 2013, including as President of the Board from 2017 to 2021. A year and a half later, knowing that Caroline reads the Stamford Advocate every morning, Art took out a full-page ad asking her to marry him. She is always looking for a dog or cat to befriend when she is not working -- and sometimes when she is working, as evidenced by her photo. STAMFORD, CT Caroline Simmons will make history on Wednesday when she's sworn-in as Stamford's first female mayor. I knew it was a sure thing that she would come downstairs and read The Advocate, Linares said. In the meantime, Simmons said, we will live separately for a period of time and plan to continue to serve our constituents and live in our own separate districts., Some see the couples union as proof that politicians can rise above the partisan sniping. People are laughing that she married Art. These two people getting married are everyones favorite, said Frantz, who is attending the wedding. }, Subscribe and listen to the Capitol Watch Podcast, iTunes | Soundcloud | Google Play | TuneIn, Amid The Partisan Bickering In Hartford, A, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Welcome to the new courant.com: Whats changed, FAQs and more, Amid The Partisan Bickering In Hartford, A Republican And A Democrat Found Love, Alex Murdaugh found guilty of murdering wife, son, CT continues to prosecute some marijuana cases despite legalization, 14 protesters arrested at state Capitol complex, Connecticut Republicans call for crime reforms as traffic deaths soar and enforcement falls, Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Both are iconic in different ways. [5] She earned her bachelor's degree from Harvard College in 2008, where she majored in Government. [The dress] emphasized and highlighted the woman wearing it. "Just grateful for all the women who came before me who blazed a trail. text-align: center; Its simplicity really changed the whole nature of the bridal industrythat whole idea of wearing a much simpler wedding gown has become a classic bridal expression now. "When I saw my dress, I knew it was perfectit was the only . Caroline Simmons is a working mother of two young boys. 2023 Cond Nast. It was indicative of the way the wedding wasnatural and of the moment, not trying to be any more than it was in its simplicity. listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information. "It's time for me to congratulate the new mayor of Stamford, Caroline Simmons," Valentine wrote on social media. Miss Caroline Lee Simmons and Mr. James Kennedy Skipton IV were united in marriage on Saturday, January 2, 2021, at six o'clock in the evening at The Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas. Were left wanting so much more. Get the latest chatter, from Kensington Palace and beyond, straight to your inbox. Her focus never wavered, even with her 3-year-old, Teddy, at her feet, turning her podium into a play space. "[48] Despite her initial defense of the proposal, Simmons eventually withdrew the proposal before it was voted on by the board. For a celebrity to be that warmhearted and showing his love in that wayit was great. We're always talking to couples like you to find out how we can make every moment from engagement to newlywed life easier and more fun. Thats definitely part of the appeal. We love all of you and can't wait to celebrate our marriage with you over the coming years! Shes a woman of mystery, something we dont have much of today. She is a perfect fit for Stamford.. Elle Fanning on Queenly Makeup, From Blush on. What can I do? As a In her first term, Simmons Introduced or co-sponsored 53 bi-partisan bills, two which reduced regulations for small businesses and six of which lowered taxes on hospitals, businesses, and residents. The ceremony can be viewed on the city's YouTube page, as well as on Facebook. Having worked for Calvin Klein, her dress made sense to me. A Meriden native, Brianna came to the Advocate after four years at POLITICO, where she wrote about federal transportation policy. She graduated from Harvard with a bachelors degree in government and received her masters in Middle East Studies from George Washington University. [44] Simmons pursued capital budget increases for sidewalk construction and school buildings while obtaining state and federal funding to offset the increased cost on taxpayers. The 71-year-old Valentine conceded the election to Democratic state Rep. Caroline Simmons late Tuesday night in what ended up being a close race decided by absentee ballots. John reached for the hand of Carolyn; she was caught off guard. .galleries:after { [42], In her first year as Mayor, Simmons pursued policies that addressed the affordability of living in Stamford. Then the head count would not have to be as careful as it would be if it would be done in another way.. background-color: #c52026; She just was who she was, and part of her appeal came from not trying to be anything other than herself. On Thursday, she and engineering officials will go on a tour of the city to assess roads, bridges and sidewalks. He represents Connecticuts 33rd District. In June 2018, Simmons and Linares purchased an $885,000 split-level house built in the mid-1950s on Lakeview Drive, across High Ridge Road from Rippowam Middle School, the former high school where Valentine hit and ran to athletic glory in the mid-1960s. 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. She later submitted her first op-ed to the local newspaper emphasizing the claims of misinformation and characterizing counter-proposals as "not operationally viable or fiscally responsible. Susan Bysiewicz. Her fashion legacy, however, lives on. Obituary: Frederic Rickinson, 92, Of Stamford, Custom Built Stamford Home Offers Quality & Craftsmanship, Stamford's St. Patrick's Day Parade Is Saturday: Here's What To Know, "A River Runs Through" Opening Reception at Ice Cream Social, Free Workshops! color: #1e1e1e; @CarolineSimmons. Caroline Simmons, a Democrat, defeated former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine in a bitter battle to become the next mayor of Stamford. Please wander around this website to find out more information about our wedding and a little bit about each one of us and our relationship. He previously managed the Texas Rangers, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox and the Japanese Pacific League's Chiba Lotte Marines. They exuded an affection that was beautiful to witness, the love felt that weekend and that night on Cumberland Island. They discuss the first real winter storm of the season in Connecticut and they offer some updates on local political elections. font: 700 23px/25px Belizio,Georgia,Droid Serif,serif; Simmons gave Martin a shoutout during the Government Center ceremony, saying that she had big shoes to fill. Martin presented Simmons with a gavel and congratulated her. Linarus represents the state Senates 33rd District, which includes most of Middlesex County. The dress was lovely, and very fitting. How many dresses can we say get better and better? [3], Simmons was born in Greenwich, Connecticut and raised in a family of five children with a Democratic mother and Republican father. They are shown here during their final debate in the. It was lovely in its simplicity and elegance and was very much consistent with the theme or feel of the wedding. Simmons worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before running for office. Her husband, Art Linares, is a Republican former state senator. Linares said he doesnt view his wedding as emblematic of a new era of cooperation at the Capitol as much as a deeply personal decision by two people in love. Art Linares and Caroline Simmons insist its possible. For their rehearsal dinner and reception, they celebrated at the islands Greyfield Inn, where most of their guests stayed as well. I think the quietness of her dress is proving that can almost have more impact than anything else. It was a really special photograph. Both lawmakers are well-liked on both sides of the aisle. [47] Stamford's Board of Representatives Legislative and Rules Committee voted against the proposal and local residents organized in opposition to the plan. Former big league manager Bobby Valentine fell short in his bid to become mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. To have it be a slip dress is a bold thing to wear; its not even corseted. Plus, why the State Department is changing its default font. [31] Miller was the most senior legislator among the Stamford delegation and an ally to Simmons throughout her mayoral campaign. That they were able to find true love [at the Capitol] is pretty cool., Sen. Scott Frantz, a Greenwich Republican who is a friend of Simmons parents and has known her since she was 3, said the upcoming nuptials give him hope that the rifts that divide lawmakers can be bridged. An ad appearing in the Stamford Advocate on Friday, December 23, 2016. She was the epitome of chic.. She dressed like that in photos and when I saw her in the Calvin Klein showroom. Many ancient pipes in CT aren't up to the task of draining storm water, yet officials just seem to shrug. Were not sure if were going to go or for how long, Simmons said. Plan your wedding Community and advice Find a couple Start your registry Find a couple Search for a couple's wedding registry or wedding website here. Simmons was joined by several state officials, including Gov. Try This: 5 Soothing Places in Fairfield County for Sunsets. [34] Dalena left his position as Deputy General Counsel to Governor Lamont to accept the position in Stamford. Simmons said that first on her to-do list was meeting with city officials to prioritize the top infrastructure needs in Stamford as Connecticut is set to receive billions of dollars from a federal infrastructure package. She is due to deliver her third child early next year. It has the same sort of simplicity and sex appeal, kind of a boudoir feeling, of when Marilyn Monroe sang Happy Birthday, Mr. President. It kind of has the same dropped onto the body [feel]. PublishedDecember 1, 2021 at 5:19 PM EST. Caroline Simmons said the comments are 'misogynistic' and 'offensive. When asked to identify individuals who used this language, Simmons singled out Democratic Majority Leader Nina Sherwood and another board member of the same party. And in a place with a lot of sharp elbows, she was amazing. STAMFORD, CT Democratic Mayoral Candidate Caroline Simmons on Wednesday announced her campaign raised $152,604 from 345 individual donors since winning the Democratic primary against outgoing . [47] In a public meeting with organizers, Simmons claimed the proposal was the target of misinformation. But its fascinating to have a different perspective, and it helps refine my own views. STAMFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- History was made Wednesday, as Connecticut's second-biggest city now its first female mayor. At the end of the celebration, Art surprised his bride with a rendition of "Sweet Caroline." Caroline is the daughter of Eileen and Steve Simmons of Greenwich. [50] Sherwood said the mayor's claim was "a complete fabrication" and asked Simmons to "tell the truth and apologize for her hurtful Chicago statements. She did her own thing. Connecticut Public Radio | It's not that funny. Frankie and Johnny take a look at whats in a new proposed state budget and what's not. The wedding was an event, but the dress was what changed everything. The 35-year-old Democrat took the oath of office alongside her two toddlers and her husband, former Republican state Sen. Art Linares. I was just absolutely amazed by her. Please enter valid email address to continue. Former Republican President George W. Bush, who was a managing partner of the Rangers when the team fired Valentine as its manager, contributed $500 to the candidate's campaign. Im very pleased that they were able to do this in what otherwise can be a combative place. Simmons defeated Martin in a landslide, winning the majority of votes in every voting district. "It's a young, vibrant, optimistic city and now you have a young, vibrant, optimistic mayor, perfect fit for the job, Caroline Simmons," Gov. But they are hopeful an agreement can be reached that will draw support across party lines, which would negate the need for the couple to cancel their honeymoon. [10] In 2018 and 2020, Simmons won re-election, while pregnant during both elections.[11]. | Website by Web Publisher PRO, Experts (and real local people) share their best SECRETS FOR HOME AND WORK HAPPINESS, TOTAL HEALTH and FINANCIAL FITNESS, The new shop So Fresh shares its secret about irresistible doughnuts. Caroline Mack and Evan Simmons's Wedding Website - The Knot Friends and Family, we're getting married April 9 in a small ceremony at First Presbyterian Church with only immediate family. I saw it as it was unfolding, almost in silhouette. [38] Simmons nominated Assistant Police Chief Louis DeRubeis as Jankowski's replacement. DARIEN Former baseball manager Bobby Valentine and state Rep. Caroline Simmons clashed Thursday in their increasingly bitter battle to become Stamford's next mayor. [18][19] Simmons had raised over $239,000 for her primary campaign, outpacing Martin's $78,000. Caroline Simmons shoe size is 8 UK and she loves to wear casual shoes. Dennies had previously served as Director of Administration under Mayor Malloy. STAMFORD Caroline Simmons was sworn in Wednesday as Stamfords mayor, becoming the first woman to take the citys highest office. [13] Simmons introduced and led debate on a bill to enhance the state's cyber security. Thank you all for your support, it's been my honor. Simmons won the election Tuesday and will become the city . The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. Her administration's first-year budget recommended a 1 percent tax increase. STAMFORD, CT State Rep. Caroline Simmons made history early Wednesday morning, as she became the first woman to be elected as mayor of Stamford. Theyre both great people and I wish them many years of happiness, Aresimowicz said. [23] Simmons garnered national attention after she announced she was expecting her third child,[24] and again when she was endorsed by President Barack Obama. [2] At the time, few at the Capitol knew about the relationship. On Twitter, Caroline Simmons shared that she gave birth to a . He graduated from the University of Tampa with a bachelors degree in entrepreneurship. Ned Lamont, Lt. Gov. [34] Dennies and Jankowski were both incumbents in their positions who served under Mayor Martin. View photos, directions, registry details and more at The Knot. I tried to access a couple's wedding website, but am being prompted for a password. Her father, Steve Simmons, echoed similar sentiments. Caroline Sundvold is on Facebook. Connecticut Public Radio. This is a carousel. The couple chose the location based on its significance to Connecticut and American history. She plans to visit small businesses on Saturday. She has a collection of more than 100 formal shoes and her wife likes her collection.Caroline Simmons loves to buy new shoes every month when she has some time to go shopping.. She has beautiful Black eyes that attract the viewer's . Ive never met somebody so arresting, London says. We are getting Married on May 30th, 2009 at 3:00pm at the Villa St. Elizabeth in Wyomissing, PA. Sitting side by side, Simmons and her husband, Art Linares, a former Republican state senator, held their sons Teddy, 3, and Jack, 1, who became a bit restless during the hour-long ceremony. It has added some stress, but my top priority and focus right now is serving my constituents and working on a bipartisan budget for the people of Connecticut, Simmons said. It proves that, while experimentation and trends are fun and entertaining in fashion and are exciting and stimulating, I think in some cases the simplicity of something so clean and light and classic sometimes actually has more impact than some crazy over-the-top thing. I just want everyone to know that unlike some corners of the world or even some corners of this country, we believe in democracy in Stamford, said Martin, who was a member of the Board of Finance and a longtime member of the Board of Representatives before becoming mayor. [5], After graduating Harvard she worked on Barack Obama's Presidential Transition Team, before accepting a job at the Department of Homeland Security. Caroline Simmons made history Wednesday morning as the first woman to lead the state's second-largest city. It was virtually dark outside. The 35-year-old didn't miss a beat as she juggled the roles of mom and new mayor at her swearing-in ceremony, CBS2's Tony Aiello reported. Her beauty is this pure, classic beauty; instead of seeing her as this fashion object, were really looking at her. For now, they will live apart: Linares will stay in Westbrook while Simmons will keep her Stamford apartment, about an hour and a half away. Decades later, Hepburns wedding dresses continue to influence sartorial perspectives and individual expression. We dont look at this as a political issue, said Linares, a tall, dark-haired 28-year-old who has represented several lower Connecticut Valley towns in the state Senate since 2013. content: ; Producing and Acting for TV with Scott Bryce & Laurence A. Caso, DCA's Darien Neighbors, Global Players ~ Sarah Blank, Fine & Decorative Arts Auction | Jewelry | Artwork | Furniture | Silver, David Licata glass art making demonstration, Gluten-Free New England's Connecticut Expo, Road Closed In Stamford Due To Construction: Public Safety, Stamford Resident Wins $50K From Scratch-Off: CT Lottery, The Taco Project Opens First CT Location In Stamford. The couple plans to set a wedding date in January. Create a free website or blog at WordPress.com. To all of the women and girls in our city, today is for you, said Simmons as she delivered her swearing-in remarks in front of a packed lobby at the Stamford Government Center. It is a historic day because today we celebrate a trailblazer, said Bysiewicz, who was drowned out by applause as she referred to Simmons as Stamfords first female mayor. After all, autumn is typically the quiet season for the part-time state lawmakers, who generally complete all their work by mid-June. Welcome to the wedding website for Chris Field and Caroline Simmons. January 26, 2022 / 9:43 PM / CBS New York. She reached across the aisle, Lamont said, jokingly pointing to Linares. The swearing-in ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. from the Stamford Government Center, but residents will have the chance to watch from home since attendance will be limited. What did they spend it on? Every morning she reads The Advocate cover to cover, the Westbrook legislator said. Fashion journalist Zanna Roberts Rassi: It was the epitome of 90s minimalism. Profile. [9] In 2016, Simmons won re-election, defeating her challenger with 67% of the vote. [20], Simmons faced unaffiliated candidate Bobby Valentine in the general election. Caroline Simmons made history Wednesday morning as the first woman to lead the states second-largest city. When they first started planning their wedding, Linares, a senator from Westbrook, and Simmons, a representative from Stamford, settled on an October date for their outdoor celebration at picturesque Griswold Point in Old Lyme. Thats part of the magicless is more. width: 100px; } Dear Caroline, Will you marry me? Caroline Simmons (born February 10, 1986) is an American politician serving as the mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. Legislators say they are unlikely to cobble together a spending plan before Linares and Simmons reach the altar. The former state representative beat two-term incumbent Mayor David Martin in a primary. [39], Simmons brought in new appointments for cabinet positions including Matthew Quinones as Director of Operations, Doug Dalena as Director of Legal Affairs, and Loren Nadres as Director of Economic Development. As he cooked breakfast and she flipped through the paper, Caroline came upon Arts ad. People are still dressing in that kind of design for their weddings, and people are definitely still inspired by the dress in many different ways. Art is the son of Robin and Art Linares of Clinton. "[50] These comments were shared by Simmons on her own personal Instagram page. It was such a telling, interesting moment, him saluting his dad. The house sits on 0.57 acre, with a pond in back. All rights reserved. [17] Martin collected enough signatures to force a Democratic primary election which took place on September 14, 2021. How Corbin Burnes became an ace by making his bed, 7 Cubs pitchers combine for no-hitter vs Machado, Padres, Top moments from Brady, Manning, Jordan and other athletes hosting 'Saturday Night Live', Fantasy baseball rankings, projections, strategy and cheat sheets, Rojas to withdraw from WBC, stay with Dodgers. 2023 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Connecticut has been without a budget since the start of the new fiscal year on July 1. ", "Mothers of young children a rising political force as Stewart, Simmons lead two of Connecticut's largest cities", "Former President Barack Obama endorses Caroline Simmons in Stamford mayoral race", "In Stamford mayoral race, 71-year-old Bobby Valentine called his Democratic opponent a '35-year-old girl.' Valentine did not contact Simmons on election night,[29] and characterized local press coverage as "lousy", adding he could not compliment Simmons' victory "with an open heart and clear mind. Hes the Republican grandson of Cuban exiles who has been endorsed by the National Rifle Association and volunteered for Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida. Betts: Nobody knew they were getting married, then that was a shocking part of the whole eventshe was wearing this very simple dress at a very simple, secret wedding. [14] During her second term, Simmons continued advocating for improvements to Stamford public schools, infrastructure, and public safety. But I always burn the eggs.. By Tammy La Gorce. ChristopherTField@hotmail.com And we both share the values of caring about the state and our work as public servants, he said. It's why our tools cost little to nothing at all and work seamlessly together in one place online. "[30], Prior to being sworn into office, Mayor-elect Simmons appointed State Senator Patricia Billie Miller, Cradle to Career President Bridget Fox, and Stamford Health President Kathleen Silard to serve as co-chairs for her transition team. Hopefully its a foreshadowing of whats to come, he said. I know today as I take this oath that Im just picking up a torch that many of you have been carrying for a long time and that the young girls watching today will be picking up long after me.. Only a woman with a real sense of self can do that. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Tong also said that the late Ellen Camhi, who led Stamfords Democratic City Committee for decades, would have been proud to see Wednesdays ceremony. She understood how to not have the clothes be the focusshe was always the focus. "Thank you all for your support, it's been my honor. We hope that our wedding is more than a marriage between the two of us, but also the beginning of a friendship between our families and friends. Linares is a traditional conservative, winning the endorsement of the Family Institute of Connecticut political action committee in 2016. / CBS New York. [citation needed] As chair, she has focused on small business development and job growth, especially given the COVID-19 pandemic. I feel today as a father so proud, so fulfilled and so excited, Steve Simmons said. A special election will be held to fill her seat. Talk about reaching across the aisle. [4] She was the president of her high school, captain of three varsity sports and a two-time All-American lacrosse player. display: block; community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years. [27] Valentine originally claimed duplicate ballots may have influenced the result,[28] but conceded soon afterward. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has openly shared her admiration of Carolyns style. hands down changed the wedding dress game. Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. 484.269.4974, After we get married, we will be living in Center City, Philadelphia. Written just ahead of her final Christmas, the highly personal letter from the late royal will be up for auction next week. It wont surprise their constituents to learn the young legislators she is 30, he is 28 met in Hartford. Camila Vallejo is a corps member with Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. With the Senate tied 18-18, leaders in that chamber have resisted scheduling a vote on a matter as important as the budget without all members present. ', "A 1,500 vote difference put Caroline Simmons over Bobby Valentine to become Stamford's next mayor", "Bobby Valentine loses tight mayoral race in Stamford, suggests some voted twice", "John Breunig (opinion): Caroline Simmons made history in CT. Can she make more? And, we'll look at the connection between exercise and spirituality. Her hair was pinned into a bun and held by a clip that once belonged to her mother-in-law, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. The greatest lineups ever? [13] She was appointed as Chair of the Commerce Committee, becoming one of the youngest women to ever do so.