Anachronism Stew: The hot-air balloon is of the modern, late 1970s style, complete with FAA-regulated numbers (N4011A), a system that didn't come into play until the 1940s.
Betty and Veronica: Patrick is the Betty to Cass McCray (his employer at the balloon and rival to Mary's feelings)'s Veronica to Mary's Archie.
Easily Forgiven: After Patrick confesses that he was the one who cut the balloon's ropes before realizing Carrie was inside, Cass scolds him for almost ruining his balloon but Mary scolds Cass for only caring about his balloon, not showing any resentment towards Patrick for endangering her little sister.
In-Joke: Balloonist Cass McCray is named after series producer Kent McCray.
Karma Houdini: The old lady who steals the pickpocketer's stolen items is never caught. Arguably, the pickpocketer himself who's never caught and brought to justice.
Papa Wolf: When Carrie is seen flying on the balloon alone, Charles joins the firefighters on the efforts to rescue her, assisting them on how to bring down the balloon without endangering his daughter.
Throw the Dog a Bone: Nels does win the donkey ride contest, and while his wife doesn't pay attention when he tries to tell her, he at least got to keep the money, as he was never robbed by the pickpocketer.
