If they have already located a proper location to return Max (see yesterday’s strip), why are they still wasting time inside the truck looking up bear costumes? And wouldn’t those “whether men” post on their own conspiracy group’s web site?

Given that the photo in question (panel 2) is two people in full costume, I don’t see how any identification can be made, even if names were attached. Anyway, this distraction does not move the story along one iota.

Why does Rivera continue to focus the story on the would-be kidnappers while disregarding Max the Manatee? These three have all the concern of a moving crew delivering furniture. To me, the real drama is Max’s current health. What if Max’s condition worsened as a result of the dawdling, jostling, and negligence? Isn’t that worth focusing on? It provides sufficient suspense and drama for this story.

Keep in mind that Mark is the guy whose very existence is based on preserving nature and wildlife. It looks as if Jules Rivera has lost sight of Mark Trail’s Prime Directive!

Art Dept. Rivera continues to swing back to her sketchy, barren style. She must have been watching StarTrek when drawing this, because in panel 3 Mark looks like that early version of Mr. Spock when Capt. Pike was in charge of the Enterprise. Minus the five o’clock shadow, of course!