Three and Half more days.

[Gary Wittmann]

In three and half more days of teaching I will be leaving my teaching position for the last 33 years. I have left on a high note after receiving the Learning Disabilities Association Indiana State Teacher of the Year for 2007-2008 school year. I will miss the students and friends I have had and going to school each day. I know a new door is opening for me to step through to do full time professional storytelling. Since 1993 I have been a part time storyteller and have thouroughly enjoyed the experiences of this wonderful group as well. Well the count is going down and I need to get to class. www.garywittmann.com Gary Wittmann

[Gary Wittmann]

Karl, I have been a professional storyteller since 1993 doing shows locally and developing my talent in order to step into it in my retirement. About a year and half ago I develop a web page www.garywittmann.com and have been using word of mouth and brochures to get my name out there. I also call the local newspaper or television show to let them know I am going to be in there area. You have to be your own PR man and get it out there. I am a member of a storytelling group which has help me develop my skills. I am working on books and cd material right now since I have more time to expand. This is another way of marketing yourself but expanding the business end of the storytelling. I have two shows coming up in June since I didn't get the material out in January to the Library for booking purpose. I hope this answer some of your questions about transitioning from teaching to retirement. Or should I say semi retirement

[Karl Behling]

Gary, how did you start making the transition viable? I have 3-4 years of teaching left before I go pro. I guess what I'm asking is, how do I set it up so I can "step through" the door? Best to you. Karl Behling

[Buck P Creacy]

Congratulations Gary

I hope you have the greatest success possible. You have all my best wishes and prayers for your continued success.

Buck