Coach's absence is explained by his being in Ohio for a family reunion; not, however, his own family's reunion.
The bar regulars create a mash-up of several traditions as Sam changes the beer keg. They hum "Taps," a traditional funerary music in various militaries, as the dry keg is wheeled out. The proclamation of "The keg is dead! Long live the keg!" is a parody of a traditional proclamation that follows the death of a king in several European nations. "Hail to the Chief" is an American song that is traditionally played to introduce the President.
Alison LaPlaca is married to Philip Charles Mackenzie, who played the obnoxious fiancé of Coach's daughter in a first season episode.
Alison La Placa would go on to co-star in Madhouse (1990) with future series regular Kirstie Alley.