High Fidel-ity

If Fidel Castro sneezes, you can be sure it'll make news in south Florida.

That's why his first interview in almost a year is notable.

A video clip aired Monday showed Randy Alonso, host of the government's nightly "Round Table" program, sitting across from the 80-year-old leader during the previously taped interview of nearly an hour, which will air on official television.

The preview offered few clues about what was said, except discussion of Castro's weekend meeting with Vietnam's top communist leader.

Recovering in an undisclosed location, Castro has not been seen in public since before July 31, when he announced he was temporarily ceding power to a provisional government headed by his 76-year-old brother Raul, the defense minister. Life on the island has been little changed since, and top officials insist months Castro's health is improving.

Apparently, reports of Fidel's demise have been greatly exaggerated.

But you'll know when it happens. Look for the city-sponsored party in Miami.