NVA LT O \VGD D Redefining Retirement Living Travelers To Cuba Not worried SAM ENGLAND Staff Writer A recent international incident that cast historically strained relations between the United States and Cuba in the spotlight coincides with two local excursions to the Communist country. But, according to trip participants and planners, there isn't much reason to worry. A soccer team comprised of Bloomfield Hills Andover and Lahser high schoolers has spent this week playing and practicing in Cuba. Also, the Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit, plans to take a group there this weekend. The story earlier this month of a young Cuban boy rescued from the ocean while flee- ing his country and taken into U.S. custody, and the resulting tensions between the two nations trying to dic- tate his fate, has organizers here a little concerned but not panicked. "As far as we're concerned," said David Magidson, leader of the JCC's "Jewish Cuba" tour. "We have the tickets and we have our visas and we're ready to go" on the scheduled departure date of Dec. 13. "The only thing that could stop us is either the Cuban government says, `You can't come in,' or the U. S. gov- ernment says, You can't go out.' So far, that's not happened. So we're hopeful that everything will be fine." West Bloomfield's Sam Skeegan, whose son Louis played in the Maccabi Games and has accompanied the soccer team to Cuba, reported having been in daily contact with other parents. Though concerned ini- tially when news broke of the rescued 6-year-old Cuban boy, Elian Gonzalez, Skeegan said he and other players' families are assured of the team's safety and enjoyment. "It does not look like there is any problem. They were to visit today that section in Cuba where a lot of the demonstrations and such take place, and apparently [there were] a lot of youth demonstrations. But our impression is those are organized demonstrations and, as of now, [Cuban leader Fidel] Castro is not TRAVELERS To CUBA on page 18 Waltonwood at Twelve Oaks Start the New Year withpeace of mind Experience our exciting new community Be among the first to experience the ultimate in independent living at Waltonwood at Twelve Oaks. Choose from one or two-bed- room luxury apartments with kitchens and private patios or balconies. Enjoy many features, including: fitness center LAI hair salon activities scheduled transportation and convenient extras such as prepared meals, housekeeping and laundry. There's always something going on in the common areas: See a movie in the theater Meet friends in the cafe Shop in the country store Reserve the multi-purpose room for a birthday party or other event rye Challenge your friends to billiards and other games Invite visitors to stay in our guest suite. Outdoors, you'll find walking trails, lakeside views, scenic courtyards and a gazebo. Plus, we're just minutes away from shopping, dining, golf and other pleasures. Call today to learn about this exciting new community 27475 Huron Circle adjacent to Twelve Oaks Mall (248) 735-1500 Waltonwood communities offer the finest in independent living and assisted living. Visit our Web site at www.waltonwood.com . Call today for a personal tour: Rochester Hills 3250 Walton Blvd. (248) 375-2500 6. Royal Oak 3450 W. Thirteen Mile Rd. (248) 549-6400 The Waltonwood communities in Rochester Hills, Royal Oak and Canton are licensed homes for the aged. Canton 2000 N. Canton Center Rd. (734) 844-3060 SINGE Waltonwood Services LLC No deposit or entry fee required. 12/10 1999 II