Spotted in Amboy: Antler Derby and Chili Feed

What does community really mean? Cory Knott, 39, of Amboy can tell you.

Knott, a North County logger partially paralyzed in an accident in April 2010, received an extraordinary gift Saturday from the community of Amboy.

During the past nine months, residents showed tremendous love and support to Knott and his family. As sort of a grand finale, more than 120 friends, family and neighbors gathered at an Antler Derby and Chili Feed to help raise money for a wheelchair van for Knott.

Hunters brought in their largest antlers to be measured and the winner, Dale Halme, received a Stihl chain saw from Amboy Saw & Service, a major sponsor of the derby.

Raffle tickets were sold for prizes donated by businesses in Woodland, Vancouver, Longview and Amboy, as well as from Ax Men in Vernonia, Ore., and Stump-Branch Logging in Buxton, Ore.

More than $6,000 was donated through a variety of fundraisers to purchase the van and cover any fees.

During Knott’s physical therapy, it became apparent that “when he begins doing what he loves, that’s when he will recover,” said Suzi Goedert, co-owner of Amboy Saw & Service.

The van is outfitted with a wheelchair lift, specialized driving controls and plenty of room for camping. Knott has always been an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and he is actively involved in his children’s activities. The van gives him a way to continue these activities.

Knott said he was overwhelmed by the showing of support from the community. What does the van mean to Knott, who has been logging since he was a teenager?

“Freedom in the forest again,” he said.