Dear Supporter,

I hope by now you've received our Save the Date invite to this year's Sunset Splash Silent and Live Auction Gala!!! Help support the Sundt Memorial Foundation's mission by attending the fundraising party on October 17th, 2009! All proceeds go toward the production and distribution of the Natural High DVD Series and accompanying programs.

Catch up with friends, enjoy a sit down dinner, and watch a spectacular sunset overlooking the ocean from the new "Scripps Seaside Forum"! This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Natural High DVD Series, the impact they're making across the country, and to connect with other individuals that share a similar dream; to see more kids choose natural highs!

To read more about the gala and purchase tickets visit www.sundtmemorial.org/gala. Can't attend but still want to support our work? You may also make a donation!

What's more special then seeing seventy 5^th graders pile in to an auditorium, find their special "spot" in the front or the back, and then hang on your every word as you encourage them to find their natural high? Such was the case on May 19^th 2009 when Founder, Jon Sundt teamed up with local musician, Nigel Kauanui, and spoke to a group of students at Bird Rock Elementary in La Jolla, California.

Jon started by asking the kids, "How many of you know someone who has done drugs or been affected by drugs?" 95% of the students raised their hands showing that just at the innocent age of 11-12, most kids have already had at least one exposure to drugs via a family member, relative, friend, or acquaintance. You've probably heard similar statistics in the news these days, but have you ever contemplated how true they could be in your own community?

After the Natural High DVD was shown, Jon shared the effect losing two of his younger brothers to drugs had on him, and why he survived by making the decision to choose his natural high, surfing, instead. You could see the wheels turning as many kids started asking questions and sharing thoughts about people they knew or saw on T.V. Nigel Kauanui, whose brother was killed by the Bird Rock bandits 2 years ago, also shared his loss and experience with the drug culture. He closed with saying how the decision to live clean is so important to survival and achieving your dreams.

Bird Rock Principal, Bev Candage with Jon Sundt

It is always a pleasure and a privilege when the Sundt Memorial Foundation has the chance to talk further with kids about what it means to choose a natural high over drugs. It is our dream that where SMF can't go, others will speak out in their own communities. Together, with nationwide support, we can change the culture and shape the future!

Musician, Nigel Kauanui Shares His Loss for A Purpose

Nigel's natural high is making really great, positive music. With a funky style and catchy hip hop beat, it's hard not to get energized by Nigel's passionate lyrics and heartfelt convictions. After the Bird Rock assembly, we asked Nigel a few questions about his experience and participation. 

SMF: Why is the Natural High message important to you?

NK: The natural high message is important to me because I've seen first hand how drugs and alcohol can ruin someone's life, destroy motivation, take away your dreams and cause you to be in jail or dead. 

SMF: Why did you participate in the assembly?

NK: I participated because I've always felt the need to influence kids into something positive before they reach the age where they start making bad choices and are tempted not to follow their dreams. Things are getting a lot worse; kids are learning faster and becoming exposed to more at a younger age.

SMF: What did you take away from the assembly and talking to these kids? 

NK: I got a lot out of it. I realized how smart and ahead of the curve those kids were. I also learned how many of them knew about the death of my brother when it took place two years ago. It made me really happy to reach out to these kids and let them know through my music that anything is possible and drugs will make it impossible.

Nigel's most recent CD, Planet E.A.R.T.H is available on itunes. You can also watch a clip of his latest music video "Surfing through Space" on youtube.

New Natural High T-Shirt Designs and Colors

Looking for a brand you can believe in? We're pleased to announce not one, but eight new Natural High T-shirts available on our website! Now choose from a variety of colors such as pink, purple, Kelly green and blue! Sizes are available in S-XL with FREE shipping and handling on every purchase. If you have kids, they make a great gift after a swim meet, football game, or dance recital. Embrace their Natural Highs and encourage them to stick with it!