As the newest season of the reality series "Survivor" unfolds amidst the dense tropical jungles, the pristine beaches, and the dark volcanic rock formations of Samoa, two contestants who have deep roots in Salem are among the players competing for the show’s grand prize of $1 million.

Brett Clouser and Laura Morett join 18 other contestants selected to star in and compete for the money on the 19th season of the granddaddy of television reality shows.

Clouser is a 23-year-old clothing entrepreneur and graduate of Pepperdine University who was born and raised in south Salem.

“I lived in the same house my entire life - right near Judson Middle School," he said. “I am a proud graduate of Sprague High School. I hope I make you guys proud.”

An inquisitive and heavily competitive kid growing up, Clouser played on an array of area sports teams that included baseball and basketball, as well as often running in Bush Park.

He said that these experiences, as well as founding the company The Monument of Our Hearts Clothing, would give him the edge he needs when competing for the grand prize.

“As an entrepreneur, you have to think on your toes, constantly adapt to your surroundings, and think of creative ways to position yourself in the marketplace when competing with other business units,” Clouser said. “Entrepreneurs are prone to taking risks, stepping outside their comfort zone, and are typically extremely proactive in seeing their ideas/dreams come into fruition. With that said, I think experiences I have had thus far as a entrepreneur and new business owner will help me navigate through the game and allow me to adapt to changing dynamics."

Morett is a 40-year-old mother of three who recently became a grandmother. She has lived in Salem for more than twenty years. Morrett is a marriage councilor and a fitness instructor who loves riding her Harley.

“I was raised in Shaw and went to Cascade High School,” she said. “When I married, I moved to Salem and I have lived there my whole life.

Morett said that, as a Christian, it was her faith-centered life that would provide her an edge as the season progresses on Survivor.

“When you have a relationship with the Lord, you never feel alone or scared,” she said. “I feel that this gives me a huge advantage over someone who does not have a faith. "

She said that the same faith that gave her internal inspiration and fortitude also gave her practical experiences that would benefit her as the show aired.

“I have been to third world countries on mission trips,” Morrett said. “I am used to different levels of humidity, different atmospheres, different climates and not having a lot.”

Clouser cited his family and friends as a source of encouragement and personal growth.

“You have motivated, inspired, and nurtured me beyond limit. You all continue to motivate me toward becoming a better human being and to see my dreams become reality," he said.

Laura said her family- both at home and at church- are her supporters.

“My family members are my biggest fans,” she said. “I hope I do both Salem and Oregon proud.”

"Survivor" airs Thursday nights at 8 p.m. on CBS.

For more information on Morett, visit www.lauramorett.com.

For more information on Clouser or The Monument of Our Hearts Clothing, visit www.tmooh.com.