Lee Wetherington Homes.

When General Electric's new state-of-the-art Advantium oven was installed in the kitchen of the new model at Riverwalk Oaks last month, Lee Wetherington Homes became the first builder in the nation to offer this product as a standard item in its kitchens. "At the touch of a button, the versatile Advantium works as either a very fast conventional oven or the most efficient microwave on the market today," says Lee Wetherington. "We see it as a perfect match for the lifestyle of those who choose one of our homes." Based on studies conducted by G.E., 90 hours of the cook's time are saved annually with the Advantium, which Lee Wetherington Homes president David Hunihan calculates gives the homeowner nearly four extra days a year to enjoy the Florida lifestyle. Popular Science magazine selected the Advantium as the Grand Award Winner of its 1999 "Best of What's New" designation in technology.

Most of the keys off the shore of Sarasota are so big they're towns and villages all their own. But Sandra Hutchison, sales manager for Amberwynd, says things are a little different on Snead Island (where Amberwynd is located). "Snead Islanders truly love their island," says Hutchison. "In days gone by and years long forgotten, community gatherings were commonplace and events were planned to celebrate special holidays. On Snead Island this wonderful old tradition continues into the new millennium."

For example, this past winter islanders enjoyed a November block party with food, island music and family fun. Over the holiday season there was a children's parade followed by a holiday party in a big tent. Hutchison also recalls the Snead Island House Lighting Contest and the yearly Lighting of the Luminaries in which "all the streets are aglow with the beauty and charm of flickering candlelight. For spring, the annual Easter Egg Hunt is eagerly anticipated."