In a graphic novel format, the long set-up would be fine. For a daily newspaper strip, however, every day should try to have a mini climax and cliffhanger.
Here’s a plot idea: have Tracy rescue a kidnapped child. Or have an armed man burst into the police station. Or have a cat-burglar creeping around Tracy’s apartment for reasons yet unknown. Or have the prize be missing from the bottom of the cereal box.
Here’s hoping this new story contains some PERIL: e.g., fire, shootings, kidnappings, poisonings, chases, torture, hostages, etc. We also need some detective work, of course, but that work should always be done under a time-crunch, as danger closes in.
The blond guy’s haircut gives me the shivers