You *could* argue that the reason for that Soviet aggression in Eastern Europe was to create a buffer between them and Western Europe. Just as their invasion of Afghanistan was intended to create a buffer between them and Iran's Islamic revolution.
Well, the place was crowded. We were packed in like sardines. They were all there to listen to the Big Band sounds of Tommy Dorsal. What sole! Tommy was rocking the place with a very popular tuna: "Sal-mon Chanted Evening," and the stage was surrounded by screaming groupers; probably there to see the bass player.
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