Bounce Tv & Grit: 2023 Changes & Impact

In 2023, Bounce TV, the first over-the-air broadcast television network for African Americans, saw changes in its programming and ownership, impacting its original mission; Grit, a sister network to Bounce TV under the Katz Broadcasting umbrella (owned by The E.W. Scripps Company), also experienced shifts as content strategies evolved within the media landscape.

Okay, here we go – let’s flesh out that intro to Bounce TV, making it nice and juicy for the readers!

Meet Bounce TV: Your New Favorite (Free!) Network!

Ever flipped through the channels and felt like something was missing? Like, where’s the TV that gets you? Well, say hello to Bounce TV, a broadcast television network that’s like a warm hug of representation for African-American audiences. Seriously, it’s like they created a channel just for us.

Now, Bounce TV isn’t just some one-trick pony. Picture this: you’ve got a perfect blend of their original shows, giving you fresh stories you won’t find anywhere else. Then, throw in some classic reruns – those shows you grew up with and still love (think old school sitcoms that will have you cracking up). And to top it off, they’ve got news coverage keeping you in the loop on what matters most to our community. It’s the whole package!

But here’s the real kicker: you don’t need a fancy cable subscription or a complicated streaming service to get Bounce TV. This gem is beamed right into your home, free of charge, through over-the-air broadcast. That’s right, just grab an antenna, plug it in, and you’re golden! It’s like finding a twenty in your old coat, a total win.

In a world where it often feels like we’re fighting for visibility, Bounce TV is a beacon. It’s more than just entertainment; it’s about seeing ourselves reflected on screen, hearing our stories told, and feeling like we belong. So, tune in, kick back, and get ready to find your new favorite show…or maybe rediscover an old flame. Welcome to the Bounce TV family!

The Origin Story: From Dream to Reality

• When Was Bounce TV Born?: Let’s rewind to September 26, 2011. Mark that date! That was the day Bounce TV officially hit the airwaves, ready to serve up some quality entertainment. But what kind of shows were they airing?
• Initial Strategy: The initial strategy was a mix and match to pull audiences in. They dived headfirst into a lineup featuring classic sitcoms that are basically staples in African-American households (think “The Bernie Mac Show”), some original sports programming, and a little bit of everything else. It was like a sampler platter to see what viewers craved the most.
• The Visionaries: Bounce TV didn’t just pop up out of nowhere. It took a team with vision. Let’s talk about the dynamic duo, the brains behind the network! Andrew Young, the civil rights legend and former U.N. Ambassador, and Martin Luther King III, continuing his father’s legacy, were the main founders. These guys wanted to create a network that reflected the African-American experience in a positive and authentic way.
• More than Just Entertainment: Their goal wasn’t just to fill airtime. They wanted a network that celebrated diversity, provided a platform for untold stories, and gave a voice to a community often overlooked.
• Early Bumps and Milestones: Launching a TV network is no walk in the park. Bounce TV definitely faced its share of hurdles. Getting carriage agreements with local stations, building brand awareness from scratch, and competing with established networks—it was a tough climb! But they also had some major wins. Securing key partnerships, launching successful original shows, and building a loyal audience were all milestones that kept them going. They were like the little engine that could, chugging along and building momentum every step of the way!

Ownership and Management: The Scripps Era and Ritz Television

Okay, let’s dive into who’s really calling the shots behind the scenes at Bounce TV! It’s not quite as simple as flipping through channels, but trust me, it’s juicy behind-the-scenes stuff. Think of it like understanding who owns your favorite restaurant – it impacts the menu, the decor, and the whole vibe.

• E.W. Scripps Company Steps In: So, E.W. Scripps Company, a major media player, swooped in and acquired Bounce TV. Why is this a big deal? Well, imagine a small indie band suddenly getting signed to a HUGE record label. That’s the kind of boost we’re talking about here. Scripps brought serious resources, experience, and a whole network (pun intended!) of connections.

• Ritz Television LLC – The Holding Company Puzzle: Now, things get a tad bit intricate, but don’t worry, I’ll break it down. Ever heard of Ritz Television LLC? They’re like the silent partner in this whole operation. Think of them as a holding company—a business that owns other companies. While Scripps is the public face, Ritz Television plays a strategic role behind the scenes.

• The Scripps Effect: Resources, Strategy, and Growth: With Scripps at the helm, Bounce TV experienced some serious changes. This acquisition meant more money, better technology, and a sharper focus on how to grow the network. It’s like giving your favorite sports team a top-notch coach – suddenly, they’re playing a whole different game. This has led to better programming choices, more effective marketing, and, overall, a bigger and more engaged audience. It’s all about leveraging those big-league resources to take Bounce TV to the next level! The partnership gave Bounce TV the resources it needed to compete in the increasingly crowded media landscape. From better marketing to investments in original shows, Scripps’ backing provided a crucial advantage.

Target Audience and Mission: Serving the African-American Community

Bounce TV isn’t just throwing shows at the wall and hoping something sticks. They’ve got a very specific group of people in mind: the African-American community. We’re talking about everyone from the little ones glued to the screen on Saturday mornings to Grandma settling in for an evening of feel-good entertainment. Bounce TV aims to be a place where everyone in the family can find something they enjoy.

But it goes deeper than just providing something to watch. The network’s mission is all about creating relevant and engaging content. Imagine flipping through channels and finally finding a place that “gets” you – that understands your experiences, celebrates your culture, and provides stories you can truly connect with. That’s the essence of what Bounce TV is trying to achieve.

So, how does Bounce TV walk the walk? It’s all about the programming! They carefully curate and create shows that resonate with African-American viewers. Think about sitcoms that reflect family dynamics, movies with relatable characters, and news coverage that addresses issues impacting the community. Bounce TV is trying to offer something that speaks directly to its audience, meeting their needs and interests head-on with every broadcast. The best part is that they are trying to provide positive and uplifting representation, which is something we all desperately need more of!

Programming Highlights: Original Shows, Reruns, and News

Alright, let’s dive into the good stuff – what you actually see on Bounce TV! This isn’t just static; it’s a carefully curated blend of original shows, beloved reruns, and impactful news segments. It’s like a TV buffet, but instead of mystery meat, you get quality content!

Original Series: Where Bounce TV Shines

Bounce TV isn’t just recycling old favorites (though they do that well too, as we’ll see!). They’ve been baking up some seriously tasty original programming. We’re talking shows that resonate with their audience and show the network’s commitment to creating new content. Think of “Saints & Sinners,” a soapy drama that had everyone talking. Or “In The Cut,” which brought laughs with its barbershop setting. These shows are specifically tailored to reflect African-American experiences and perspectives, and that’s the magic ingredient. Each original series aims to capture attention, spark conversations, and leave you wanting more. That’s how you know they’re doing something right!

Reruns: The Comfort Food of TV

Now, let’s talk about reruns. These are the old friends you’re always happy to see. Bounce TV has mastered the art of acquiring reruns, picking up shows that resonate with their target demographic. It’s not just about filling airtime; it’s about offering viewers familiar, comforting content they already love. Shows like “Martin” or “The Bernie Mac Show” are like a warm hug on a cold day. They are the reliable classics that keep people tuning in and set the stage for discovering their newer originals. These key acquisitions create a nostalgic vibe, drawing in viewers who grew up watching these shows and introducing them to a new generation.

News Programming: Staying Informed and Engaged

And finally, we’ve got the news. Bounce TV isn’t just about entertainment. They understand the importance of keeping their audience informed. Their news programming often focuses on stories and issues that are particularly relevant to the African-American community. It’s about providing a platform for voices and perspectives that might not always be heard in mainstream media. The impact of this focus cannot be understated. Bounce TV isn’t just reporting news; it’s providing a vital service to its community, fostering engagement and dialogue.

Content is King (and Queen!): Bounce TV’s Secret Sauce

At the heart of every successful network lies a killer content strategy, and Bounce TV is no exception. It’s not just about throwing shows at the wall and seeing what sticks; it’s a delicate balancing act between fresh, original content and the comfort of familiar favorites. Think of it like a perfectly curated playlist: a few new bangers mixed with the classic jams that everyone loves to sing along to.

Originality Meets Nostalgia: A Recipe for Success

Bounce TV understands that viewers crave both the excitement of discovering something new and the warm embrace of the shows they grew up with. That’s why they’ve made a conscious effort to create a diverse lineup that caters to all tastes. Their original programming aims to reflect the experiences and stories of the African-American community, offering a platform for voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. It’s about sparking conversations and creating connections.

Syndication Station: The Power of Reruns

But let’s be real, sometimes you just want to kick back and watch an old episode of a show that you know and love. That’s where syndicated content comes in. Bounce TV’s strategy of acquiring reruns of popular series is like a secret weapon in their arsenal. Not only does it attract viewers who are already fans of those shows, but it also introduces them to a whole new audience. It’s a win-win! Plus, who doesn’t love a good dose of nostalgia?

Catering to the Crowd: Maximizing Viewership

Ultimately, Bounce TV’s content strategy is all about giving the people what they want. By carefully curating a mix of original and acquired content, they’re able to cater to a wide range of viewer preferences and keep audiences engaged. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking new drama or a comforting blast from the past, Bounce TV has something for everyone. And that’s why they’ve become such a beloved and important network for the African-American community.

Distribution and Reach: Over-the-Air, Cable, and Beyond

• Catching Bounce TV Without Breaking the Bank: The Over-the-Air Magic

  Okay, so let’s talk about how you can actually watch Bounce TV. Forget complicated cable subscriptions and hefty bills! Bounce TV is all about accessibility, and that starts with good old-fashioned over-the-air (OTA) broadcast. Remember those antennas your grandparents used to have? Well, they’re back in style, baby! And for a good reason. With a simple antenna, you can pull in Bounce TV’s signal completely free. It’s like magic, but with radio waves!

  Think of it as a digital treasure hunt. You plug in your antenna (indoors or outdoors, depending on your location and signal strength), scan for channels on your TV, and BOOM! Bounce TV appears. The cool thing is, because it’s digital, the picture quality is usually crystal clear – way better than the fuzzy analog days of yore. So, you’re getting diverse content without emptying your wallet. It is truly a win-win in my opinion.

• Antenna Advantages: Why Free TV is the Best TV

  Why is this over-the-air thing so great? Well, besides being completely free (did I mention that?), it’s incredibly convenient. No contracts, no hidden fees, no arguing with the cable company when your bill mysteriously goes up. You just set it up and start watching. Plus, it’s a great backup option if your internet goes down – because let’s be real, that happens more often than we’d like to admit.

  Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But what if I don’t live in an area with good over-the-air reception?” That’s a fair question. But even if you’re not in the best location, there are amplified antennas that can boost the signal and bring Bounce TV to your screen. And with a little bit of research, you can find the perfect antenna for your needs. I hope this is helpful.

• Beyond the Airwaves: Cable and Satellite Expansion

  While Bounce TV shines as an over-the-air network, it doesn’t stop there. To reach as many viewers as possible, Bounce TV has also partnered with various cable and satellite providers. This means that if you’re already rocking a cable or satellite subscription, there’s a good chance you can find Bounce TV in your channel lineup.

  These distribution agreements are a big deal because they expand Bounce TV’s reach beyond the areas with strong over-the-air signals. It ensures that more people can access the network’s unique programming. Plus, for those who prefer the convenience of cable or satellite, it’s a simple way to add Bounce TV to their viewing options. It’s all about giving you choices, and making sure everyone has a chance to enjoy Bounce TV!

Affiliates: Local Stations – Your Friendly Neighborhood Bounce TV Dealers

Think of Bounce TV as the delicious product, but without the local stations aka the affiliates, it’s like trying to enjoy that delicious product if you can’t find the store that sells it, right? These local stations are the unsung heroes, the ones beaming Bounce TV’s signal straight into your living room. They are the lifeline, the MVPs that make sure you get your weekly dose of laugh-out-loud comedies, gripping dramas, and news that matters. Without them, Bounce TV would just be a bunch of great shows stuck in a digital vault.

The Bounce TV & Affiliate BFF Story

So, how does this beautiful partnership work? It’s like a well-choreographed dance. Bounce TV creates the awesome content, and the local affiliates take that content and broadcast it over the airwaves in their specific region. They get to air a network with content people want to watch, and Bounce TV gets instant reach in markets all over the country.

It’s a Win-Win, Baby!

It’s all about cooperation, not competition. The affiliates are not just robotically carrying Bounce TV’s signal; they are partners. They often work together on local promotions, community events, and other fun stuff. They each contribute to make sure Bounce TV resonates within the local area. They are invested in the success of the network because when Bounce TV wins, they win. They are the cheerleaders and champions of Bounce TV in their communities. So next time you’re enjoying your favourite Bounce TV show, give a mental high-five to your local affiliate station. They’re the real deal!

Audience and Viewership: Measuring Success with Nielsen Ratings

Okay, let’s talk numbers, but in a fun way! We all know that in the TV world, it’s not just about feeling good about your shows; it’s also about knowing how many people are tuning in. That’s where Nielsen comes in, the scorekeeper of the television game.

So, how’s Bounce TV doing in the popularity contest? Well, let’s just say they’re not wallflowers at the dance. Bounce TV boasts a significant viewership, particularly among African-American audiences. It’s like having a packed house at your favorite cookout – lots of familiar faces enjoying the vibes.

Diving Deeper Into Demographics: Bounce TV specifically is the demographic breakdown. It’s not just about quantity, but quality! We are talking loyal fans who come back week after week. It’s like knowing your audience is there for the long haul because you are catering to their wants.

The Magic of Nielsen: Rating Performance

Now, how do we know all this? Enter Nielsen ratings. These are like report cards for TV shows, showing how well they’re performing in terms of viewership. Analyzing this data helps us see where Bounce TV shines and how well its programming resonates with its core audience.

• Nielsen ratings offer insights into Bounce TV’s audience reach and engagement
• This data guides content strategy to maximize viewer satisfaction and ad revenue

Nielsen data helps Bounce TV fine-tune its strategy, ensuring they’re delivering the shows and content that their viewers crave. It’s about giving the people what they want, and then some!

Financial Performance: All About the Benjamins (and How Bounce TV Spends ‘Em!)

So, money makes the world go ’round, and in the world of television, that’s doubly true! Let’s pull back the curtain and take a peek at Bounce TV’s financial situation. We’ll be looking at how they make their money, and how they decide to spend it to keep us entertained.

Cha-Ching! Bounce TV’s Advertising Revenue

First up, let’s talk about the main way Bounce TV brings in the dough: advertising revenue. Like most broadcast networks, Bounce TV relies on commercials to keep the lights on. The more people who tune in, the more advertisers are willing to pay to get their products and services in front of those eyeballs.

Now, advertising revenue isn’t always a straight line upwards. It can bounce! (Pun intended, of course.) Trends in advertising can shift based on the overall economy, the popularity of certain shows, and even the time of year. Think about it: during the holiday season, you’re likely to see a spike in ads for toys and gifts, right? Bounce TV’s revenue stream depends on staying relevant and attracting viewers to keep those ad dollars flowing. The ad agencies and marketing teams also play a big role.

Where Does the Money Go? Budget Breakdown

Okay, so Bounce TV is raking in the advertising revenue. But what do they do with all that cash? Well, a big chunk of it goes into making and acquiring the shows that we love. The two major budget item is the balance between original and acquired content.

• Original Programming: This is where Bounce TV gets to flex its creative muscles and create shows that are specifically tailored to its audience. But making original shows ain’t cheap! You’ve got to pay writers, actors, directors, crew members, and a whole host of other people.
• Acquired Content: This refers to reruns of popular series and movies that Bounce TV licenses to air on its network. Acquiring content can be a more cost-effective way to fill airtime, especially with shows that already have a built-in fanbase.

The key here is finding the right balance. Original shows can draw in viewers and create buzz, but acquired content can provide reliable and familiar entertainment.

The Big Picture: Impact on Scripps’ Bottom Line

Last but not least, let’s zoom out and look at how Bounce TV fits into the larger financial picture of its parent company, E.W. Scripps Company. As part of a media conglomerate, Bounce TV contributes to the overall revenue and profitability of Scripps. The success of Bounce TV as attracting a diverse and loyal audience is crucial.

A financially healthy Bounce TV is good news for everyone involved – Scripps, the network’s employees, and, most importantly, us the viewers who get to enjoy the programming! The future investment and growth potential depends on the financial data.

The Competitive Landscape: Navigating the Media Market

• Who’s Knocking on Bounce TV’s Door? Understanding the Competition

  Let’s be real, in the wild world of TV, everyone’s vying for your eyeballs! Bounce TV isn’t the only player on the field. When we talk competition, we’re looking at other broadcast networks that also target African-American audiences. Think of channels like TV One and Cleo TV, which offer a similar mix of sitcom reruns, original movies, and lifestyle content. But that’s not all! Traditional cable networks like BET and OWN are also contenders for viewers’ attention, offering a broader range of original series and reality shows. And let’s not forget the local broadcast channels that air syndicated programming.

  It’s a crowded arena, and each of these networks is trying to stand out with unique content and a specific brand identity. For Bounce, the focus on over-the-air accessibility and a mix of classic and original programming is what sets it apart from the rest of the pack.

• Cutting the Cord, Not the Connection: Cord-Cutting and Bounce TV’s Viewership

  Ah, cord-cutting! The phenomenon that has every media executive sweating bullets. More and more people are ditching their cable subscriptions in favor of streaming services. So, how does this affect Bounce TV? Well, here’s the silver lining: Since Bounce TV is primarily an over-the-air network, it’s somewhat insulated from the direct impact of cord-cutting.

  Viewers who cut the cord are often looking for free or low-cost alternatives to traditional cable. And guess what? All you need is an antenna to access Bounce TV’s lineup. This makes Bounce TV an attractive option for budget-conscious viewers who still want to enjoy quality entertainment. That said, the overall shift towards streaming does put pressure on all networks to innovate and find new ways to reach audiences. Which leads us to the next point…

• Streaming Dreams: How Bounce TV Responds to the Streaming Revolution

  Streaming is the name of the game, and Bounce TV isn’t sitting on the sidelines! While it built its foundation on free, over-the-air access, it is also diving headfirst into the streaming pool. Bounce TV is embracing the digital world with its own streaming services, such as Brown Sugar and Bounce XL. These platforms allow the network to reach viewers on their devices, offering a convenient way to watch content on demand. These efforts help to make sure it remains competitive, providing something that viewers need. It’s all about options, baby!

Streaming Platforms: Expanding Access with Brown Sugar and Bounce XL

Okay, so Bounce TV’s not just hanging out on your antenna anymore! They’ve totally gotten with the times and hopped into the streaming game. Think of it like this: they’re bringing the party to wherever you are, whether you’re chilling at home or on the go. And they’re doing it in a couple of different ways to suit your style.

First up, let’s talk Brown Sugar. Imagine a streaming service dedicated to all things Black cinema and entertainment! That’s Brown Sugar in a nutshell. It’s like a sweet treat for your eyes, filled with classic movies, groundbreaking documentaries, and a whole lotta Black love, laughter, and drama. It’s a subscription service, so you’re paying a bit to get access to all this goodness, but think of it as an investment in some seriously good entertainment and supporting Black creatives. They are bringing some classic flavor!

Then there’s Bounce XL, Bounce TV’s free, ad-supported streaming channel. It’s like the free-to-air version of Bounce TV, but online. You get to watch a curated selection of shows and movies, and the best part? It won’t cost you a dime! (Except maybe a few minutes of your time watching ads). It’s a brilliant way to get a taste of what Bounce TV has to offer, or to catch up on your favorite shows without having to pay extra.

So, how do these streaming platforms fit into the whole Bounce TV picture? Simple! They’re expanding access. Not everyone has an antenna, and not everyone wants to wait for a specific time to watch their favorite shows. Brown Sugar and Bounce XL let you watch what you want, when you want, on whatever device you want. It’s all about giving viewers more choice and control. Plus, it lets Bounce TV reach a whole new audience of viewers who might not have discovered them otherwise. It is a Win-Win situation, folks!

The Katz Networks: More Than Just Meow! (Okay, Maybe Not That Katz)

You might be thinking of felines right now, but trust me, this Katz is way bigger than your average house cat! We’re talking about the Katz Networks, a purr-oud (sorry, I had to!) group of broadcast channels all cozy under the wing of the E.W. Scripps Company. Think of it as a super-sized TV family, with each member bringing something different to the dinner table. They’re like the Avengers of the TV world, but instead of saving the world, they’re saving you from boredom. One channel is saving from boredom, one channel at a time!

So, who else is hanging out at the Katz family reunion? Well, you’ve got the heavy hitters like Court TV, diving deep into the world of legal drama (no, not the TV show – the real deal!). Then there’s Ion Television, your go-to spot for procedural crime dramas that will have you on the edge of your seat. But the Katz family goes far beyond those channels.

Now, the fun part: how does Bounce TV play with its siblings? While they all operate independently, being part of the Katz crew means there’s room for synergy and collaboration. Think of it as a TV Voltron: Each show has it’s own purpose but can be joined to make something bigger and better. They can share resources, cross-promote each other’s shows, or even team up for special events. It’s all about that family vibe, even in the dog-eat-dog world of television! These strategic partnerships, which are key to making a big splash in the crowded media space, give audiences a lot of the content they crave and even more content that they didn’t even know they crave!

Future Outlook and Challenges: Adapting to a Changing Media Environment

Alright, let’s peek into the crystal ball and see what’s in store for Bounce TV! The media world is changing faster than you can say “Netflix binge,” so how’s our favorite network holding up?

Bounce TV definitely has its work cut out for it. We’re talking about a media landscape where everyone and their grandma has a streaming service, and attention spans are shrinking faster than your favorite sweater in the dryer.

The Streaming Avalanche

The biggest challenge? You guessed it – the streaming giants! Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and a zillion others are all vying for those eyeballs. It’s like a never-ending buffet of content, and everyone’s trying to grab a plate. So, how does a free over-the-air broadcast network compete with that? It’s a David-and-Goliath situation, but Bounce has some clever tricks up its sleeve.

Viewer Habits are Changing

Think about it: Nowadays, folks are more likely to binge-watch a show on their phone during their commute than catch it live on TV. The days of gathering around the television at a set time? Starting to feel like a sepia-toned memory.

Bounce TV’s Playbook for Staying Awesome

So, what’s Bounce TV doing to not just survive but actually thrive? It’s all about being smart, strategic, and knowing their audience inside and out.

• Embracing the Digital World: With platforms like Brown Sugar and Bounce XL, the network extends its reach and offers viewers different ways to watch their favorite content.
• Original Content is Key: They are doubling down on original shows that speak directly to the African-American experience.
• Staying True to Its Mission: By continuing to provide relevant and engaging content, Bounce TV is reinforcing its position as a cultural hub for its core audience.

Bounce TV has a unique position. It’s about celebrating culture, providing representation, and keeping things real. As long as it stays true to that mission and keeps hustling to adapt, Bounce TV has a bright future ahead!

Evolving Programming Strategy: Keeping Up With the Times (and Our Awesome Viewers!)

Alright, let’s dive into how Bounce TV is seriously working to keep things fresh and exciting! We’re not stuck in the past, folks. We know what you want changes, and we’re all about delivering the goods. It’s like getting a brand-new pair of your favorite sneakers – same comfort, but way cooler look.

Catering to Changing Tastes

Think about it: what you loved watching five years ago might be totally different from what you’re binging now. Bounce TV gets that. They’re always keeping an ear to the ground, paying attention to trends, and figuring out what kind of stories resonate most with their audience. No one wants to watch the same old thing all the time, right? So, the programming gurus at Bounce are tweaking and refining their strategy to make sure there’s always something that grabs your attention. It could be new original series that explore timely and relevant themes, or even just carefully selecting classic reruns that still hit the spot.

What’s New on the Horizon?

Ever get excited about sneak peeks? Well, Bounce TV is constantly evaluating its lineup, planning new shows, and considering fresh acquisitions. While the specifics might be hush-hush for now (gotta keep some surprises!), expect to see more content that reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives of the African-American community. It’s about creating stories that you can see yourself in, that make you laugh, think, and feel connected. Bounce TV also invests in talent both in front of and behind the camera to bring those stories to life.

Keeping it Real, Keeping it Relevant

At the heart of it all, Bounce TV remains deeply committed to providing diverse and relevant content for African-American viewers. That’s their North Star, their guiding principle. It’s not just about putting shows on the air; it’s about creating a space where viewers feel seen, heard, and valued. And let’s be honest, that’s something the media landscape still needs more of. So, expect Bounce TV to keep pushing boundaries, telling authentic stories, and championing representation in all its forms. They’re in it for the long haul!

So, there you have it! From its initial vision to its current standing, Bounce TV has definitely carved out a unique space in the world of broadcast television. Whether it continues to evolve or maintains its current course, it’ll be interesting to see what the future holds for this pioneering network!