The disappearing bagel phenomenon happened to writer/executive producer Damon Lindelof while working on the story for this episode.
When Patti shuts Laurie's laptop, Laurie is writing an email: "Dear Sylvia, We know how you're feeling. You want to understand why you're feeling that way. But you can't. We can help. We can help you let go. The Guilty Remnant."
The term "Moonie," which the townspeople use to refer to the Guilty Remnant, is a pejorative term used to refer to members of the Unification Church.
In the novel, Laurie is allowed to talk to Meg during her induction. Damon Lindelof had planned to do this but when he saw how expressive Amy Brenneman was without talking, he decided to keep her silent.
The TV heard in Kevin's house before Dean shows up is playing a report about butterfly populations rebounding.