There were two occasions where no sweetening was necessary for PW+
Allen's return after 4 weeks of absence- Gene obviously informed the audience that Allen was back, and the audience started applauding louder than usual as the intro started.
Betty White's first appearance with Tom Kennedy hosting- Betty got a standing ovation upon her entrance, and Tom Kennedy was gracious and supportive. Again, Gene told the audience that this would be Betty's first appearance on the show without Allen hosting. (Actually she did appear with Bill Cullen, but at that time, it was expected that Allen would return. With Tom now hosting, it was sadly evident that he wouldn't be back) At this time, Betty told the audience that Allen was in good spirits and getting around well. Later in the week, Betty presented a card that Allen put a kiss mark on. She placed it under the red upholstery at the main desk. Chances are it remained there for the rest of the run. Also, Tom, for whatever reason, acknowledged he had his own stool to sit on. It appeared to be the same stool they provided Allen towards the end of his run. I am guessing someone thought maybe it would bring some good luck as they wondered how long the show would last without Allen.