Dateline: July 21, 2005

Book will focus on Panhandle counties

Mariwyn McPherson Webb has been selected by the Panhandle Tourism Marketing Council to author a book on the twenty-six counties of the Texas Panhandle, to be titled Romancing the Panhandle: An Affair to Remember. 

Partial funding for the project is being supplied by the Clarendon Economic Development Corporation as a way to help stimulate interest in the rural areas of the Panhandle, such as Donley County.

Initial sales of the book will go to reimburse CEDC and other co-sponsors.

Since selling an advertising agency she founded in 1995, Webb has pursued her career as a published author and advertising consultant.  Over the past two decades, Webb has lent her talent and expertise to numerous community organizations, including several United Way organizations.  Webb currently serves on the Amarillo Economic Development Council.

Romancing the Panhandle: An Affair to Remember, to be published by The Donning Company Publishers, will be an 8.5”x 11” coffee table book highlighting the history and attractions of Panhandle communities. To be complemented with more than 300 full color photographs of the region, Romancing the Panhandle: An Affair to Remember is sure to be a wonderfully vivid addition to any library. 

“This book is something we’ve wanted for a long time, and we’re thrilled that a local author will be involved, “ said PTMC Chair Kristine Olsen.  “We think the book will be a great way to entice businesses and tourists to the Panhandle.” 

“We’re looking to area photographers to provide the photography and are asking area residents and local historians for input,” said Webb. 

If you would like further information about Romancing the Panhandle, or if you wish to submit content for possible inclusion in the book, please contact Mrs. Webb at (806) 351-0366.

In addition to CEDC funding, Romancing the Panhandle is made possible by the following sponsors: First National Bank in Spearman, First State Bank of Mobeetie, Wheeler Economic Development Corporation, and the Texas Rural Electric Cooperatives in the Panhandle area.  A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the book will benefit the PTMC.