The scripts are available for printing and for sound bite identification.

Go to http://www.wichita.edu/newsline to get the current Wichita State University Newsline. If you cannot access the Newsline at the Web address above, contact Joe Kleinsasser at (316) 978-3013 or cell (316) 204-8266 or joe.kleinsasser@wichita.edu. Newsline cuts may be edited to suit your needs.

If you have additional questions for Greg Buell after listening to the WSU Newsline, please contact him at (316) 978-3440 or greg.buell@wichita.edu. 

Background:

'Tis the season to be thankful, jolly and possibly stressed out. Wichita State University psychologist Greg Buell suggests some ways to keep the Grinch from stealing Christmas.

Voice wrap:

Announcer: 'Tis the season to be thankful, jolly and possibly stressed out. Wichita State University psychologist Greg Buell says that, too often, folks think they have to spend big bucks to make the holiday season a success.

Buell: “Be careful not to let the Grinch steal Christmas by you overspending or other forms of excess — too much food, too much alcohol, too much of anything can lead to trouble.”

Announcer: Despite the stresses, most of us treasure the holiday season to grow closer to family and friends. To avoid being a Grinch, Buell says, to check your attitude. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, remember to count your blessings. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday, this is Joe Kleinsasser at Wichita State University.

Sound bite #1

Buell says it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money to make the holidays a success. The sound bite is 16 seconds and the outcue is “for somebody else.”

Buell: “Too often, folks think they have to be spending big bucks. There are many other ways. Share some time. Get with a neighbor. Call a friend that you hadn’t spoken with in a time. Make the holiday season brighter for somebody else.”

Sound bite #2

Buell says this is a good time to visit your spirituality. The sound bite is 14 seconds and the outcue is “make meaning in life?”

Buell: “A great strategy in the holiday season is to revisit the meaning of the holiday. Visit your spirituality. Think about how you’re connected to others. How do you make meaning in life?”

Sound bite #3

Buell says it’s a good idea to count your blessings. The sound bite is 12 seconds and the outcue is “count your blessings.”

Buell: “To avoid being a Grinch, check your attitude. Too often, folks focus on what I don’t have, instead of remembering to count your blessings.”

Sound bite #4

Buell says the holidays are a great time to make memories and new traditions. The sound bite is 16 seconds and the outcue is “Christmas season.”

Buell: “The holiday season is a wonderful time to spend time with family members, make memories, new traditions. A challenge for you: Ask an elderly person something about something he or she used to do during the Christmas season.”

Sound bite #5

Buell says you can avoid a big letdown by having reasonable expectations. The sound bite is 19 seconds and the outcue is “for a great holiday.”

Buell: “One way to avoid a big letdown is not to have things too built up. Have reasonable expectations. It won’t be the best, biggest ever. Instead, a reasonable amount of togetherness, fun and relaxation will make for a great holiday.”