Florida’s Crist Weds

Even Charlie Crist’s closest friends didn’t expect to see this day. After 52 years enjoying the single life, the Florida governor has tied the knot with New York socialite Carole Rome, 39. As The Miami Herald put it, “The air was thick with perfume and nerves…The air-conditioner inside the chapel worked at full blast because the governor didn't want to get too hot…The kiss was tender and brief—perhaps too brief.” Among the guests were Olympic gymnast Shannon Miller, Tampa Bay Rays owner Stuart Sternberg, former Senator Connie Mack, Geraldo Rivera, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Derrick Brooks, and Democratic Rep. Robert Wexler. Crist’s best man was his father, Dr. Charles Crist, and the bridesmaids were Rome’s two daughters from a previous marriage. The newlyweds emerged from the chapel to be greeted by protesters who favor gay marriage.