[2] [49], Simmons' public comments about the failed affordable housing proposal received criticism from board members after the proposal was rescinded. 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. Caroline Simmons, a Democrat, defeated former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine in a bitter battle to become the next mayor of Stamford. [31] Miller was the most senior legislator among the Stamford delegation and an ally to Simmons throughout her mayoral campaign. She understood that an understatement was the loudest statement in the room. Based in North Carolina and Virginia. State rep finds surprise proposal in The Advocate, State report: Stamford discriminated against Westhill teacher, Maple Sugar Fest Sundays at Stamford Nature Center. I'm honored to get to follow in their footsteps," Simmons said. Shes been a champion for Stamford schools, for small businesses, for public safety, for the environment, for transportation, for equality and inclusion of everyone. Her fashion legacy, however, lives on. She is a bilingual reporter based out of Fairfield County and welcomes all story ideas at cvallejo@ctpublic.org. 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 Republican-endorsed candidate dropped out prior to the Democratic primary and endorsed Valentine. Simmons worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before running for office. 2021 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. To all the women who came before me and broke barriers (from) the suffragists of the 1920s, to my moms generation who fought for womens rights in the 1960s, to the incredible women in our state who have broken barriers women like Lt. Gov. [43][45] These capital investments echoed a claim made by commentators during Simmons' mayoral campaign that her connections to state and federal agencies could result in more funding for local initiatives. 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. Here's how WBC offenses stack up with MLB's best, 7 Cubs combine for 1st spring no-no since 2017, Scherzer tries to test pitch clock limits, gets balk, Jays 'playing it safe' after Guerrero tweaks knee, PitchCom-tipping: Loud device leaks Twins calls, Eflin's first start after $40M deal impresses Rays, Rangers' Leclerc to miss WBC with neck injury, Rockies' Rodgers may need surgery, '23 at risk. In December, he proposed to her in a full-page ad in the Stamford Advocate that read, Dear Caroline, will you marry me? Connecticut Public Radio. Fox was later appointed as Simmons' chief of staff. [10] In 2018 and 2020, Simmons won re-election, while pregnant during both elections.[11]. It was five-star perfection. On February 10, 2021, Simmons declared her run for mayor of Stamford, Connecticut in the 2021 Stamford mayoral election. Thats definitely part of the appeal. The previous time wed seen John Kennedy with an expressive gesture was 33 years before, at the burial of his father on his third birthday. Jan. 28, 2022. Linares and Simmons, who was first elected in 2014, are both viewed as rising stars within their respective caucuses and neither party wants to lose them. Twenty-five years after Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy hands down changed the wedding dress game, the people who watched it happen look back. [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. display: block; Simmons will take the oath of office from Connecticut Attorney General William Tong before her speech. The elders Welcome to the wedding website for Chris Field and Caroline Simmons. The couple plans to set a wedding. It was a really special photograph. Caroline Simmons, D-Stamford, and former New York Mets manager Bobby Valentine debate during a Stamford mayoral debate Oct. 21 in Darien. height: 5px; Love Artie.. London: I honestly cant believe 25 years have passed. Caroline Simmons shoe size is 8 UK and she loves to wear casual shoes. John and Carolyn asked Reggie to choose the photo that would be released to the public two days later, on Monday, September 23. For her September 21, 1996, wedding to John F. Kennedy Jr., Carolyn Bessette was ready to surprise. Simmons represents Stamfords 144th District on the state House of Representatives. Her husband, Art Linares, is a Republican former state senator. She plans to visit small businesses on Saturday. Roberts Rassi: It has held up more than most dresses; its perhaps better today than it was then. [34] Dalena left his position as Deputy General Counsel to Governor Lamont to accept the position in Stamford. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Were so excited, Simmons said, and we couldnt be happier to spend this time with our families.. It has had a massive cultural impact, particularly with the new generation. You dont need a ball gown with bells and whistles. Try This: 5 Soothing Places in Fairfield County for Sunsets. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Retracing the path of controversial Project Veritas founder James O'Keefe includes many stops in Connecticut. She specifically asked that the photo Reggie chose to release show off Rodriguezs dress. #oneofusfourallofus. 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She graduated from Harvard with a bachelor's degree in government and received her master's in Middle East Studies from George Washington University. When everything else is pared down, you see the person for who they are and see their beauty. In 1996, it was still a pretty iconic wedding dress. The couple is planning to marry on Saturday but their bipartisan union could have an impact on the timing of a crucial budget vote. She was the epitome of chic.. Theyre both great people and I wish them many years of happiness, Aresimowicz said. She is due to deliver her third child early next year. 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. Style expert Stacy London met Carolyn many times on the fashion circuit. 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. Fashion journalist Zanna Roberts Rassi: It was the epitome of 90s minimalism. 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. 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. 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. Mashburn: It is a timeless dress. Brianna Gurciullo covers local government and politics for the Stamford Advocate. ", "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.' STAMFORD Caroline Simmons was sworn in Wednesday as Stamford's mayor, becoming the first woman to take the city's highest office. With less than two weeks before the primary, Simmons and Martin each stumbled mildly during a Zoom forum Wednesday while pondering the possibility of defeat. It was happening in real time, and not in any way posed or arranged. [5], After graduating Harvard she worked on Barack Obama's Presidential Transition Team, before accepting a job at the Department of Homeland Security. I burned the eggs, he said. Im very pleased that they were able to do this in what otherwise can be a combative place. Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting. Until then, theyll continue celebrating their engagement with family and friends. They discuss the first real winter storm of the season in Connecticut and they offer some updates on local political elections. Bobby Valentine, 71, conceded the mayoral election in Stamford, Conn., to Democratic state Rep. Caroline Simmons late Tuesday night in what ended up being a close race decided by absentee ballots. ', "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? "[50] Stamford's Board of Representatives requested a meeting to privately discuss "alleged and misconstrued comments" but the outcome of this request was not publicly reported. Elle Fanning on Queenly Makeup, From Blush on. Her dress was perfect for where she got married. 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. She was just one of those women who understood how to make fashion work for her, not the other way around. The couple honeymooned in the Seychelles; they call Stamford home. Caroline Simmons. 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! 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Shes a woman of mystery, something we dont have much of today. Something about that dress transcends trends and timealmost no bridal establishment would say they dont have at least one dress that resembles it. What did they spend it on? Simmons, 35, a Democrat, claimed victory . 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. Shes a pro-business Democrat who graduated from Harvard and worked on Barack Obamas first campaign for president. Stamford is young, energetic, optimistic and expanding, he said. As someone who had three babies as a state legislator and served as secretary of the state with three kids under the age of 7, Caroline Simmons has got this. font: 700 23px/25px Belizio,Georgia,Droid Serif,serif; Whatever she wore for that wedding would have been memorable. Can the two state lawmakers from opposite political parties build a life together in an age marked by partisan bickering and sharp ideological divisions? We look forward to seeing you on our wedding day. "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. Caroline Simmons is now in charge of the state's second-largest city. Caroline Simmons said the comments are 'misogynistic' and 'offensive. We have different political views and we dont agree on everything, Simmons said. Its healthy to be able to debate the issues.. Simmons won the election Tuesday and will become the city . The back cover of The Advocate featured a full-page ad with a personal query. Sophie Simmons is married! 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. All rights reserved. Simmons and Linares canceled their honeymoon to continue negotiations. Find a Couple's Wedding Website or Registry. Dear Caroline, Will you marry me? A Stamford native, he was a three-sport high school star in the city. [9] In 2016, Simmons won re-election, defeating her challenger with 67% of the vote. Only a woman with a real sense of self can do that. Linares is a traditional conservative, winning the endorsement of the Family Institute of Connecticut political action committee in 2016. Simmons made it look easy. "[48] Despite her initial defense of the proposal, Simmons eventually withdrew the proposal before it was voted on by the board. She understood how to not have the clothes be the focusshe was always the focus. The dress was lovely, and very fitting. Connecticut Public Radio | Sheryl Lee Ralph Discusses Meeting Beautiful Amazon Rihanna Ahead of The Super Bowl, Princess Diana Wrote That She Hoped 1997 Will Be an Easier Year for Us All Eight Months Before Her Death. It was a great moment in my career but also a beautiful moment in my personal life, he told Vogue in 2018. I did a double take. 484.269.4974, After we get married, we will be living in Center City, Philadelphia. She also plans to meet with schools Superintendent Tamu Lucero this week. Art is the son of Robin and Art Linares of Clinton. Thats what I remember mostthe magic feeling of the two of them together, the way they were. [40] Nadres had worked in New York City on economic issues for over a decade prior to accepting her role in Stamford. 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. 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. I think the quietness of her dress is proving that can almost have more impact than anything else. ChristopherTField@hotmail.com [43] This increase was below the city's average of 2 to 3 percent each year from 2013 to 2022. I feel like the luckiest guy, Linares said. Were not sure if were going to go or for how long, Simmons said. We are getting Married on May 30th, 2009 at 3:00pm at the Villa St. Elizabeth in Wyomissing, PA. He graduated from the University of Tampa with a bachelors degree in entrepreneurship. But its fascinating to have a different perspective, and it helps refine my own views. The best pitcher in MLB? Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has openly shared her admiration of Carolyns style. The Monkees! Prince William and Kate Middletons Normal Parenting Tips From the Archive: Meet the Women Who Domesticated the Rolling Stones Sign up for The Buyline to receive a curated list of fashion, books, and beauty buys in one weekly newsletter. 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. To have it be a slip dress is a bold thing to wear; its not even corseted. 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. content: ; "Thank you all for your support, it's been my honor. Caroline Simmons (born February 10, 1986) is an American politician serving as the mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. 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. Caroline Simmons made history Wednesday morning as the first woman to lead the states second-largest city. .galleries:before { Specializing in model test shoots and headshots. STAMFORD, Conn. (WTNH) Caroline Simmons was officially sworn in as Stamford's 32nd mayor Wednesday. Vanity Fair may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. "She's gonna reach across the aisle. You have to be confident; I could never wear it. ", It's time for me to congratulate the new mayor of Stamford, Caroline Simmons. It's not that funny. Connecticut has been without a budget since the start of the new fiscal year on July 1. Also, whos going to win the Super Bowl and what does it mean for Connecticut? The couple met a year and a half ago, at a bipartisan young legislators caucus. CarolineJSimmons@gmail.com [5][7] Simmons also earned a Master of Arts degree in Middle East Studies from the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University in 2011. and just really despicable language. She reached across the aisle. By signing up you agree to our User Agreement and Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement. Fashion designer Cynthia Rowley: I was so awestruck at the time with its simplicity. In a stunning announcement, Sen. Art Linares said on the Senate floor on Monday night that his wife, Rep. Caroline Simmons, is pregnant. She certainly wore it beautifully and it was made for her. I cant wait to celebrate the time with our families and with Caroline.. Susan Bysiewicz, state lawmakers, city officials and Simmons family packed the lobby of the Government Center for the second ceremony. They exuded an affection that was beautiful to witness, the love felt that weekend and that night on Cumberland Island. As he cooked breakfast and she flipped through the paper, Caroline came upon Arts ad. It never shows its age. A special election will be held to fill her seat. "[50] These comments were shared by Simmons on her own personal Instagram page. It's why our tools cost little to nothing at all and work seamlessly together in one place online. Rowley: I definitely think it does feel like that kind of simplicity will never go out of style. Caroline Simmons greets voters outside Stillmeadow Elementary School in Stamford Tuesday morning, Nov. 8, 2016. [The dress] emphasized and highlighted the woman wearing it. display: block; 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. It wasnt like Oh, Im marrying into Camelot with a 20-foot train. It was a complete chess move in the opposite direction. [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. Behind Nika Mhl's surprise call from UConn great Sue Bird, Cannabis advocates protest CT's recreational-use rollout, CT SPCA volunteers 'humbled' as hundreds file to adopt pets, Warrant: Ex-CT 'lunch lady' sent nude pics to student for months. It was a bold move in an era of froufrou; she brought this kind of palette cleanser, a sort of refreshing sorbet after a fancy meal. We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. [18][19] Simmons had raised over $239,000 for her primary campaign, outpacing Martin's $78,000. Caroline Simmons (born February 10, 1986) is an American politician serving as the mayor of Stamford, Connecticut. [12] She also secured $65 million in funding for schools, passed legislation improving public safety, gun safety, and pedestrian safety, and co-sponsored legislation for a Connecticut Competitiveness Council. [33], After being sworn in as Mayor, Simmons announced she would retain two cabinet members from the previous administration: Sandra Dennies as Director of Administration, and Ted Jankowski as Director of Public Safety, Health, and Welfare. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. 2513 Kimball St John reached for the hand of Carolyn; she was caught off guard. 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. listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information. 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. Her father, Steve Simmons, echoed similar sentiments. The day was marked by two ceremonies: one just after midnight. For their rehearsal dinner and reception, they celebrated at the islands Greyfield Inn, where most of their guests stayed as well. 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.. [Carolyns dress] was revolutionary in that sense, that someone would wear something that simple. She dressed like that in photos and when I saw her in the Calvin Klein showroom. Its so sleek and sexy at the same time, so glamorous. We love all of you and can't wait to celebrate our marriage with you over the coming years! Portrait and lifestyle photography. [13] Simmons introduced and led debate on a bill to enhance the state's cyber security. Linares made eggs as he waited for the big reveal. He said hes seen her succeed on the athletic field, in the classroom and in state government. How many dresses can we say get better and better? building a betterand more civilConnecticut to live, work, and play. 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. 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. 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 . Simmons defeated Martin in a landslide, winning the majority of votes in every voting district. [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. Ned Lamont and state Attorney General William Tong -- who privately and publicly swore her in. Thats part of the magicless is more. She resigned this week as the representative for the 144th District, which includes neighborhoods in the middle of Stamford. margin: 16px auto 0; He said that Simmons, who moved to Stamford in 2013, was an amazing state legislator in part because everybody liked her.. }, 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. Lamont attended their wedding in 2017. Simmons moved to Stamford and started working at the Women's Business Development Council in 2013 after living in Washington, D.C., and working at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.