The Kennedy Center now has a box which dispenses free "cough drops" at the
entrances to the performance halls.  Patrons are encouraged to limit their
helpings to two, but I have a suspicion that these wrapped medicinal aids
have replaced after dinner mints.  Before the concert begins there is a
flurry of polite unwrapping, but about the second movement, a cloud of
eucalyptus begins to permeate and hover above the hall.  I guess one has
to substitute one sensory invasion for another.  At least there's not as
much coughing.

Darrell Acree
Washington, DC