Jeremy: Remember the last time a silhouetted Balthazar arrived to “shock” Stan and Elle? He was wearing a hat then, too. Looks like Balthazar wears a hat to make major decisions, or so this comic strip would lead us to believe. Also, for some inspiration for the 3rd panel of today’s strip, see this and this. Regarding that second link, I like to think that Chester’s keytar playing is inspired by J.J. Abrams.

Jeff: I think it’s been far too long since “Stifle it!” was a part of everyday conversation…