Now that spring seems to officially be here, many people start thinking about the great outdoors. But it is easy to take for granted the fact that not everyone can enjoy a hike along the trails in Wayne National Forest or a walk around Lake Vesuvius.

For those with physical disabilities or other limitations caused by age or health, this is an opportunity that could elude them completely. But for the past decade the forest service and the National Wild Turkey Federation have partnered to change that for at least one day — through the Wheelin’ Sportsman Fishing Day here in Lawrence County.

For those who have never been blessed enough to attend, it is truly a heartwarming sight as hundreds of individuals who likely wouldn’t be there otherwise fill the Vesuvius boardwalk to cast their lines.

Some critics may see this as just a token effort.

For many of those who attend, it isn’t.

This event set for 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, is ultimately about freedom and equality as it allows individuals to experience and achieve things they likely wouldn’t otherwise.

Those are two qualities on which it is difficult to put a price tag.

This is a very important event and the significance should not be underestimated.

Even just a few hours in the sun, feeling the wind blow across their faces with the chance to snag the big one or tell fish stories about the one that got away, can create priceless memories for many southern Ohioans.