Diane Stresing - Cleveland: Including Akron and Canton

Every book is the result of collaboration, and I feel very fortunate to have teamed up with some great people on this one.

Amber Kaye Henderson wrangled the 60-odd files (and several hundred pictures) I sent into a manageable text. (Thanks, Amber.) Molly Merkle handled the big-picture stuff and the minor details with equal care. In fact, everyone at Menasha Ridge Press made working on this book a pleasant experience. Its only right to acknowledge Bud Zehmer too, who was trusting enough when he was with Menasha Ridge Press to offer this great project to an unknown little writer with a new pair of hiking boots.

Here at home, my family and friends were supportive and encouraging. My husband hiked many trails with me (when hed rather have been on his bike!) and contributed several photos. My daughter didnt complain when I insisted on just a quick hike on our way here, or home from there, even when it interfered with a shopping trip. My son enthusiastically pointed out a few thousand beetles, butterflies, fish, and rocks and identified some very interesting faces in trees that Id have missed had I been alone on the trail. He was also the only person who was absolutely certain Id make my deadline. (Thanks, Dude!)

I thank my father for giving me the hiking gene, the inclination to hit the trail for no other reason than to see whatever may be waiting there to be seen. (Thanks, Dad!) I am also grateful for decades of my mothers advice. Because of it, I was careful, wore sunscreen and good shoes, always carried a snack, and drank plenty of water along the way. (Thanks, Mom. See, I was listening.) Michelle Schultz has been not only encouraging to a fault but also a very astute market analyst. (Shelly, I didnt follow all of your advice, but between you and me, youre probably right.)

I am also indebted to dozens of people in the field, so to speak, who shared with me their time, enthusiasm, and incredible knowledge as I worked on this book. Jean Backs, Chris Craycroft, and Chris Smith deserve special mention. Finally, though it may seem out of context, I feel I should acknowledge the Portage County Animal Protective League. The weak and frightened puppy rescued at West Branch Reservoir so many years ago remains my favorite hiking buddy. Spike was always eager to hit the trail and never complained about revisiting a section or an entire hike, and if he ever suspected I lost my sense of direction, he didnt say a word.

DIANE STRESING