Musician proves it’s never too late to publish a first book
March 5, 2013
Newcastle resident Italene Gaddis may be 87 years old, but if you ask her, she doesn’t feel any older than she did as a child growing up in the South.
“You’re not a number,” she said. “People say ‘Are you really 87?’ and I say ‘No, not really, I’m Italene.’”
By Christina Corrales-Toy
Italene Gaddis, an 87-year-old poet, songwriter and musician, plays her autoharp in her Newcastle home Feb. 19.
With her charming Southern drawl, the poet, musician and songwriter captivates with her quick wit and sunny disposition. She’s an endless source of encouraging words, uplifting songs and positive affirmations.
