Shes been a champion for Stamford schools, for small businesses, for public safety, for the environment, for transportation, for equality and inclusion of everyone. The Republican-endorsed candidate dropped out prior to the Democratic primary and endorsed Valentine. Something about that dress transcends trends and timealmost no bridal establishment would say they dont have at least one dress that resembles it. Both say the political differences enrich their relationship. As a Linares is a traditional conservative, winning the endorsement of the Family Institute of Connecticut political action committee in 2016. Simmons defeated Martin in a landslide, winning the majority of votes in every voting district. An ad appearing in the Stamford Advocate on Friday, December 23, 2016. Former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine and Democratic state legislator Caroline Simmons faced off in the election Tuesday after a bitter campaign. CarolineJSimmons@gmail.com For her September 21, 1996, wedding to John F. Kennedy Jr., Carolyn Bessette was ready to surprise. [34] Dennies and Jankowski were both incumbents in their positions who served under Mayor Martin. Carolyns veil was made of silk tulle, and she wore crystal-beaded satin sandals from Manolo Blahnik; on her arms were long white gloves, and in her hands were an understated bouquet of lilies of the valley. Theyre both great people and I wish them many years of happiness, Aresimowicz said. Portrait and lifestyle photography. Twenty-five years after Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy hands down changed the wedding dress game, the people who watched it happen look back. Her hair was pinned into a bun and held by a clip that once belonged to her mother-in-law, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. 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. [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. The day was marked by two ceremonies: one just after midnight. The couple was at Simmons Bridge Street apartment on the day of the surprise. Since the election, Simmons has prepared for office by working with her transition team and policy committees. He graduated from the University of Tampa with a bachelors degree in entrepreneurship. Facebook gives people the power to share and makes the world more open and connected. [47] In a public meeting with organizers, Simmons claimed the proposal was the target of misinformation. 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. 2023 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. STAMFORD Caroline Simmons was sworn in Wednesday as Stamford's mayor, becoming the first woman to take the city's highest office. I knew it was a sure thing that she would come downstairs and read The Advocate, Linares said. This is a carousel. Ive been to a few swearing-ins, but this ones really special for me because its personal, Lamont said. She plans to visit small businesses on Saturday. [21] The race attracted several high-profile donors,[22] amounting to a total of $1.2M between both candidates. I saw it as it was unfolding, almost in silhouette. content: ; Caroline was an amazing state legislator for so many reasons, not the least of which is everybody liked her because she liked everyone, Lamont said. 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. On February 10, 2021, Simmons declared her run for mayor of Stamford, Connecticut in the 2021 Stamford mayoral election. Fox was later appointed as Simmons' chief of staff. Linares has served on the state Senate since 2013. background-color: #c52026; It was virtually dark outside. Simmons will take the oath of office from Connecticut Attorney General William Tong before her speech. STAMFORD, CT State Rep. Caroline Simmons made history early Wednesday morning, as she became the first woman to be elected as mayor of Stamford. building a betterand more civilConnecticut to live, work, and play. Only a woman with a real sense of self can do that. State Rep. Caroline Simmons shares a light moment with State Senator Bob Duff, left, and State Senator L. Scott Frantz at the Women's Business Development Council's annual breakfast at the Hyatt in Greenwich, Sept. 23, 2016. Love Artie.. This dress was totally opposite and diametrically opposed. 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! 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. He said that Simmons, who moved to Stamford in 2013, was an amazing state legislator in part because everybody liked her.. "It's time for me to congratulate the new mayor of Stamford, Caroline Simmons," Valentine wrote on social media. The 35-year-old Democrat took the oath of office alongside her two toddlers and her husband, former Republican state Sen. Art Linares. She understood how to not have the clothes be the focusshe was always the focus. listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information. [13] Simmons introduced and led debate on a bill to enhance the state's cyber security. Excited for my daughter and also for the city of Stamford because they are getting someone who is completely dedicated to the city and the people who live in it.. Simmons said she will hold virtual town halls on a weekly basis starting this Friday. STAMFORD, CT Caroline Simmons will make history on Wednesday when she's sworn-in as Stamford's first female mayor. Winter's finally here for Frankie & Johnny a couple months after it started. "I hope I can earn your trust, whether you voted for me or not, and know that I will be a mayor for everyone in this city," Simmons said. 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. 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. Style expert Stacy London met Carolyn many times on the fashion circuit. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. John reached for the hand of Carolyn; she was caught off guard. [citation needed] As chair, she has focused on small business development and job growth, especially given the COVID-19 pandemic. ', "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? [43] This increase was below the city's average of 2 to 3 percent each year from 2013 to 2022. 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. It's why our tools cost little to nothing at all and work seamlessly together in one place online. 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. 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. But something was different. And we both share the values of caring about the state and our work as public servants, he said. In a building that draws ideologues with big egos, both Simmons and Linares are viewed as collegial and pragmatic. "I know she's very smart, she's very educated, she went to Harvard, and I'm really looking forward to seeing the changes she's going to be making to our city as our new mayor," student Selin Osman said. The house sits on 0.57 acre, with a pond in back. I thought I misread it.. Our address will be: "I will reassess," Simmons said.. Connecticut Public Radio | She represents the 144th District in Stamford. Fashion designer Cynthia Rowley: I was so awestruck at the time with its simplicity. Linares made eggs as he waited for the big reveal. Sophie Simmons is married! The dress was lovely, and very fitting. I really respect that. Art Linares and Caroline Simmons insist its possible. What can I do? The couples two-week honeymoon in South Africa and the island nation of Seychelles may wind up getting postponed, canceled or cut short if a budget vote is called. We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. STAMFORD Caroline Simmons was sworn in Wednesday as Stamfords mayor, becoming the first woman to take the citys highest office. It was lovely in its simplicity and elegance and was very much consistent with the theme or feel of the wedding. Legislative leaders are still hoping to convene this week before the wedding to resolve the standoff. 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. Former big league manager Bobby Valentine fell short in his bid to become mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. Then, at his own wedding, another incredibly kind, princely gesture. Susan Bysiewicz, state lawmakers, city officials and Simmons family packed the lobby of the Government Center for the second ceremony. At the end of the celebration, Art surprised his bride with a rendition of Sweet Caroline.. Simmons will be the first woman to serve as mayor of Stamford, the state's second-largest city and its fastest growing. Thank you all for your support, it's been my honor. Meanwhile, former Democratic President Barack Obama endorsed Simmons. He previously managed the Texas Rangers, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox and the Japanese Pacific League's Chiba Lotte Marines. No Gavin Lux -- big problem. [4] She was the president of her high school, captain of three varsity sports and a two-time All-American lacrosse player. I cant wait to celebrate the time with our families and with Caroline.. 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. Caroline Simmons greets voters outside Stillmeadow Elementary School in Stamford Tuesday morning, Nov. 8, 2016. "To all of the women and girls in our city, today is for you . Her administration's first-year budget recommended a 1 percent tax increase. 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. Caroline Simmons made history Wednesday morning as the first woman to lead the state's second-largest city. [51], Simmons lives in Stamford with her Republican husband and three children. She then faced sports celebrity Bobby Valentine, who ran as an independent, in a close race called by absentee ballots. font: 700 23px/25px Belizio,Georgia,Droid Serif,serif; Linares family is from Cuba, where you werent allowed to have different political views. In his own relationship, it makes for great conversation. Thats what I remember mostthe magic feeling of the two of them together, the way they were. The 35-year-old Simmons defeated David Martin, the citys mayor since 2013, in Septembers Democratic primary and then went on to win the general election by about 1,500 votes over former Major League Baseball manager and unaffiliated candidate Bobby Valentine. For their rehearsal dinner and reception, they celebrated at the islands Greyfield Inn, where most of their guests stayed as well. Shes a pro-business Democrat who graduated from Harvard and worked on Barack Obamas first campaign for president. You have all been such an important part of our lives and we wouldnt imagine getting married without you. The actor, returning soon for a third season as Catherine the Great, pays homage to classic screen stars in the campaign for Paco Rabannes latest perfume, Fame. With Stamford increasingly driving growth in Connecticut, the pressure is on Simmons to deliver on the collaborative leadership she promised. Susan Bysiewicz. Before the Omicron surge caused dozens of people to drop off the wedding guest list of Bryan Terrell Clark and Devario D. Simmons, it shut down "Thoughts of A . It never shows its age. London: [The dress] has the most extraordinary constructionsimple, bias-cut, all of it. I tried to access a couple's wedding website, but am being prompted for a password. Reggie: It was an incredibly magical moment. Rowley: I definitely think it does feel like that kind of simplicity will never go out of style. Democratic State Rep. Caroline Simmons of Stamford and her husband, a Republican state senator, gave birth to their first child on Friday as the season's first snow storm blanketed Connecticut . [At the time] nothing was as stripped down to that level of lingerie, basically. This look was an expression of her personality, that shed do things on her own terms, in her own style, with her own point of view. Many ancient pipes in CT aren't up to the task of draining storm water, yet officials just seem to shrug. 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. Camila Vallejo is a corps member with Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. Welcome to Caroline Simmons and Art Linares's Wedding Website! 2513 Kimball St Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Caroline & Evan April 9, 2022 Nashville, TN, USA Home Our Story These two people getting married are everyones favorite, said Frantz, who is attending the wedding. Caroline Simmons said the comments are 'misogynistic' and 'offensive. Dennies had previously served as Director of Administration under Mayor Malloy. Connecticut has been without a budget since the start of the new fiscal year on July 1. Dear Caroline, Will you marry me? It has had a massive cultural impact, particularly with the new generation. All rights reserved. I was just absolutely amazed by her. 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. Simmons knocked off incumbent Democrat David Martin in the primary, and then in the general snuck past former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine, who ran as an independent. Half of her time spends wearing casual shoes, she also wore formals when going outside. Ad Choices, How many dresses can we say get better and better?, The 42 Best Romantic Comedies of All Time, The 25 Best Shows on Netflix to Watch Right Now. At both, Attorney General William Tong administered the oath of office. The couple chose the location based on its significance to Connecticut and American history. Quinones had previously served on Stamford's Board of Representatives since 2013, including as President of the Board from 2017 to 2021. In their final debate. It was one of the most anticipated nuptials since Princess Diana and Prince Charles, but instead of a cathedral filled with thousands of people, the couple chose the First African Baptist Church on. 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]. Plus, why the State Department is changing its default font. It's not that funny. She resigned this week as the representative for the 144th District, which includes neighborhoods in the middle of Stamford. She is a bilingual reporter based out of Fairfield County and welcomes all story ideas at cvallejo@ctpublic.org. Young women in the Stamford High School band who were invited to perform at the ceremony said they see the new mayor as a role model. Simmons, interrupted at times by her sons, said it was a very special day for Stamford women., To all the women and girls out there, today is for you, Simmons said. ChristopherTField@hotmail.com You have to be confident; I could never wear it. width: 100px; } [35] Jankowski was nominated by Mayor Pavia in 2012 and reappointed by Martin for both of his terms. 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. #oneofusfourallofus. Both are iconic in different ways. Chris Palermo / For Hearst Connecticut Media. Simmons, 35, defeated unaffiliated Bobby Valentine is a closely-contested race in November. Caroline Simmons (born February 10, 1986) is an American politician serving as the mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. Hopefully its a foreshadowing of whats to come, he said. color: #1e1e1e; [46], In August 2022, Simmons' administration pursued a project to renovate Stamford's Glenbrook Community Center into affordable housing but the proposal received significant pushback. Caroline Simmons is sworn in Wednesday as Stamfords mayor by Attorney General William Tong at the Stamford Government Center. 484.269.4974, After we get married, we will be living in Center City, Philadelphia. Not for everybodybut for her. Written just ahead of her final Christmas, the highly personal letter from the late royal will be up for auction next week. He snapped the newlyweds as they descended the steps of the candlelit church, which had no air-conditioning and only eight pews. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has openly shared her admiration of Carolyns style. Simmons worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before running for office. 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. [Carolyns dress] was revolutionary in that sense, that someone would wear something that simple. Art is the son of Robin and Art Linares of Clinton. We have different political views and we dont agree on everything, Simmons said. In an interview with Glamour in early 2016, the then Meghan Markle, when asked which celebrity wedding dress was her favorite, named Carolyns, calling her gown everything goals. Even nearly two decades after her death in 1999, Carolyns impact on fashion and culture remains: Fashion designer Wes Gordon modeled one of his collections after Carolyn in 2016, and Rosamund Pike partly modeled her character in the movie Gone Girl after Carolyn. Her beauty is this pure, classic beauty; instead of seeing her as this fashion object, were really looking at her. 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. After the musician who is the daughter of KISS rocker Gene Simmons and actress Shannon Tweed-Simmons and her longtime love, James Henderson, tied the knot at a. Get the latest chatter, from Kensington Palace and beyond, straight to your inbox. 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. And, we'll look at the connection between exercise and spirituality. 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. Join Facebook to connect with Caroline Sundvold and others you may know. Simmons worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before running for office. I thought it would be a good way to propose, and also a sentimental way that would mean a lot to both of us., I usually check the back page for the weather, she said. She was just one of those women who understood how to make fashion work for her, not the other way around. The couple is planning to marry on Saturday but their bipartisan union could have an impact on the timing of a crucial budget vote. January 26, 2022 / 9:43 PM / CBS New York. On Twitter, Caroline Simmons shared that she gave birth to a . Caroline Simmons Officially Sworn In As Stamford Mayor December 1, 2021 / 6:45 PM / CBS New York STAMFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- History was made Wednesday, as Connecticut's second-biggest city. They kept this a state secret from everybody, said Frantz, who sits next to Linares in the Republican caucus room. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Bysiewicz added, Simmons is the right person at the right moment to lead in this city., Shes a person who has always had the right priorities, Bysiewicz said. Caroline Simmons (born February 10, 1986) is an American politician serving as the mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. 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 . [The dress] emphasized and highlighted the woman wearing it. [42], In her first year as Mayor, Simmons pursued policies that addressed the affordability of living in Stamford. I remember how cool and bold it was, breaking all bridal rules in the most elegant way possible. Hes the Republican grandson of Cuban exiles who has been endorsed by the National Rifle Association and volunteered for Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida. Mashburn: It is a timeless dress. The reception and dancing to follow will be held at the Reading Country Club from 5:30 to 10:30. Its healthy to be able to debate the issues.. It has become a cultural touchstone. Simmons won the election Tuesday and will become the city . [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.