A New Landmark in St. Pete History

By Karmene M. Lusis, Best in St Pete Magazine

Created from a vision in the summer of 2004,WINGS Bookstore, located at 4th St. N.and 45th Ave., is now a vibrant reality. The bookstore celebrated its grand opening on April 2, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and then opened its doors to the public on May 1.

What is it that makes this bookstore uniquely St. Pete? To walk through the doors of this awesome looking, impressive bookstore, one would be amazed at what can be found. If you're searching to be nourished spiritually, WINGS has an extensive selection of books, CD's, as well as DVD's by noted authors, educators and artists such as Neale Donald Walsch, Carolyn Myss, Deepak Chopra, Alan Cohen, Marianne Williamson, Celtic Woman, Dianna Krall, Michael Buble, R. Carlos Nakai, IL Divo, and Josh Groban, just to name a few.

WINGS is truly more than a bookstore. Apart from books and music, you'll find an amazing product line, ranging from "Aromatherapy to Zen". Among these you'll discover beneficial items dealing with health and healing, fascinating Native American products, unique selections from Eastern philosophy, exquisite cards and gifts, charming jewelry, Feng Shui, meditations, yoga and even delicious beverages.

As Sharon Jebens, manager of WINGS Bookstore, shares, "WINGS is a bookstore and coffee bar for the body, mind and spirit. The focus of the bookstore is based on ‘Cultural Creatives', meaning that people in society, not because of race, religion or political persuasion, who are thinking and speaking consciously, raising children, taking care of the planet and coming to know who they are ~ are ‘waking up' spiritually to a new way of relating to the planet, Spirit, Self and relationships. The vision of WINGS embraces the message that addresses the importance ofreaching out to society to provide an avenue of support for those on their healing journey."

Ms. Jebens shares passionately about the volunteers that have helped and continue to help in the vision of WINGS evolving, in that ach volunteer has put his or her time and effort nto making this vision of WINGS a reality. Each volunteer working in the Bookstore comes forth with joy and enthusiasm, sharing their passion as they do what they love to do. Patti Rondolino shares her expertise in coordinating and managing the events. Peggy Williams embraces her talent, as it reflects in the choice and display of such enchanting card selections. Susan Carr is responsible for the intriguing and excellent choice of music repertoire displayed. Janet Maddax provides a wonderful opportunity for us to explore the aromatherapy world, as well as yoga classes. Barista Crystal Nyerick, an incredible coffee chef, manages the coffee bar and brings her talent to the table to captivate and tantalize the taste buds of her customers, providing refreshing and delectable coffee and tea specialties.

As exciting as what this unique bookstore has to offer for adults, as well as children, WINGS Bookstore will also be hosting many events, with A New Landmark in St. Pete History By Karmene M. Lusis Wings Bookstore Wings Coffee/Tea Bar Outdoor Cafe area Relax, read a book, have a coffee. Sharon Jebens - Patti Rondolino Crystal Nyerick book-signing, gatherings, movie and open-mic nights. Classes, seminars and larger events will be scheduled in the Unity classrooms and/or in First Unity’s sanctuary itself.

Mark your calendar for some exciting up-coming events: June 29-30 ~ World renowned author, Neale Donald Walsch will be conducting a weekend workshop entitled, “An Intimate Weekend with Neale.” September 14-15 ~ Dr. Bruce Lipton will present “The New Science of the Body-Mind-Spirit Trinity.”

After you browse and shop the bookstore, indulge your senses with an exceptional tasting beverage, made to order, along with a pastry or two. Then relax indoors or outside on the patio, where tables and chairs are set up for your convenience. Come out for an exciting evening of music, or to simply catch a movie. We, at the Best in St. Pete Magazine are proud to welcome WINGS Bookstore to what truly is attractive, inviting and unique about St. Pete.

Reprinted with permission of Best in St Pete Magazine.