In the aftermath of the devastating Mountain Fire, one local teacher and lifelong surfer was facing a deeply personal loss: the destruction of his beloved collection of surfboards—each one a vessel of stories, memories, and saltwater soul.
Among those impacted was Keith McKnett, a science teacher and aquatics coach at Rio Mesa High School. Known for his dedication in the classroom and his deep passion for surfing, McKnett has long inspired students with lessons not only in science, but in life. Whether it was through tales of dawn patrols, surf sessions, or recounting perfect rides, he brought the magic of the ocean into everything he did.
His surfboard quiver—painstakingly curated over the years—was more than just gear. It was a tangible reflection of his love for the ocean. Tragically, the collection was lost in the fire, along with many of the McKnett family’s treasured belongings.
Your boards are like a lost part of our souls.
“It’s not just fiberglass and resin,” said fellow surfer Kat Merrick, Executive Director of the Local Love Project. “Each board has a story, a moment tied to it, a memory filled with great days on the water and so many perfect rides. Your boards are like a lost part of our souls.”
But even amid the ashes and heartbreak, a bright moment emerged.
Unexpected Kindness Born of Surfing Soul
Legendary surfboard shaper Steve Walden, often hailed as the “Father of the Modern Longboard,” heard McKnett’s story through his longtime friend Kat Merrick. Touched by the loss, Walden stepped in and gifted McKnett a custom-made surfboard—a gesture that resonated deeply with the teacher and his community.
“It was an honor to give something back to someone who’s given so much,” Walden said. “Surfing is family.”
This generous act was more than just a replacement—it was a reminder that even in the face of loss, the spirit of aloha and the strength of community endure.
Walden Surfboards: A Legacy of Innovation
Nestled in the heart of Ventura, California, Walden Surfboards has been a cornerstone of the surfing world for more than 60 years. Founded by Steve Walden, the brand is synonymous with innovation, performance, and the soul of longboarding.
📍 Visit them at: 853 E Front St, Ventura, CA 93001
The Local Love Project: Grassroots Relief with Heart
When disaster strikes, it’s the spirit of community that truly shines — and no one embodies that better than Totally Local VC and their nonprofit arm, the Local Love Project.
This grassroots effort, deeply rooted in Ventura County, brings neighbors together, harnesses local resources, and demonstrates the power of community-driven action in times of crisis.
Learn more about their mission:
👉Local Love Project
About the Mountain Fire
The Mountain Fire broke out in Ventura County, California, in November 2024, devastating the Camarillo area. Fueled by strong winds, the fire began in Somis and quickly spread into Camarillo Heights and neighboring communities. It destroyed 243 buildings, damaged dozens more, and displaced thousands of residents.
To support those affected, consider donating:
👉Making Your Disaster Relief Donations Count: A Local Love Project Guide
