The advertising with Natalie's picture on the city bus was real and not CGI. The technique is known as "Vehicle Wrap" where the signs are printed on large vinyl sheets and then applied to the vehicle. Including the removal of the old sheets, an ad can be designed, printed and applied in just a few days.
The second of two episodes to involve powerful electromagnets in the commission of the crime, the first being Mr. Monk Meets the Playboy (2003).
The second of two episodes to include the California state lottery. The first was Mr. Monk and the Paperboy (2004)(#2.10).