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Letter to the editor

100th birthdays

By Times Staff Writer
Published March 5, 2008

When Aileen Bliss Chapman was a little girl in Geneva, Ind., her father would strap a coronet to the side of his motorcycle, place her behind him on the seat, and have her hold on for dear life as they peeled off to the next town to play with the Adams County Brass Band.

Mr. Bliss taught Aileen to play a variety of instruments. She was such a good player that when someone in a band didn't show up, Aileen would step in.

Aileen met her husband in Chicago during the Great Depression. His name was Jack. She called him "Rollo."

In 1939, they settled in St. Petersburg. Mrs. Chapman began giving string instrument lessons to Childs Park students, a rarity back then.

She and fellow teacher Charlotte Cooper started the Pinellas Youth Symphony in 1958. Mrs. Chapman retired from the school system in 1968.

She joined the Second Time Arounders Band in her late 80s. Now, at 100 years old, Mrs. Chapman still keeps a busy social calendar.

* * *

Charles R. Tese, a resident of Point Brittany, celebrated his 102nd birthday Jan. 30.

Mr. Tese received several decorations and commendations while serving in George Patton's Third Army during World War II.

[Last modified March 4, 2008, 23:15:33]