In a time when digital HD, cable, and satellite TV bring us thousands (that’s right: thousands) of different channels to choose from in our day-to-day viewing schedule, doesn’t it make sense that one of those channels should be dedicated to one of the most popular animated sitcoms in American TV history?

That’s what News Corp. is thinking, as they’re toying with the idea of bringing us an entire channel dedicated to The Simpsons. Here’s the speculative report from LA Times.

Noting that “The Simpsons” shows no sign of slowing down as it prepares to start its 23rd season on News Corp.’s Fox network, News Corp. Chief Operating Officer Chase Carey said the company is starting to have internal discussions about how to create additional revenue streams for the animated hit that goes beyond reruns on TV stations and DVD sales.

Any effort at creating a platform just for “The Simpsons” may have to wait for the show to stop producing new episodes. Because the show is still in production after more than two decades, the rerun deals done years ago are still in effect. Once the show ends, so-called second cycle sales of repeat episodes can be sold. Although some shows might seem stale after 20 years, “The Simpsons” continues to be a solid performer.

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Far-gone are the days when networks held enough power and importance to have TV crossovers and intermixing story lines, much like the days when George Reeves would pop up on I Love Lucy or story lines interweave between Buffy and Angel. Fox seems to be the only network with interest in doing such stunts, as Family Guy’s Stewie popped up on an episode of Bones.

Well, it looks like Fox is doing it once again with an announcement for a Simpsons on-air scavenger hunt in celebrating 20 years of broadcasting TV’s favorite animated family. In a press release, the network announces that it will start on November 9th, and go for an entire week.

FOX is paying “homage” to 20 years of television’s favorite yellow family with the network’s first-ever on-air scavenger hunt. Beginning Monday, Nov. 9 and continuing through Friday, Nov. 13, fans can watch FOX each night to find SIMPSONS shout-outs, tributes and clues featured in primetime programming and on-air promos.

One lucky winner will receive the ultimate SIMPSONS prize package, including a trip for two to Los Angeles to attend a SIMPSONS table read with the Emmy Award-winning voice cast and producers, a home entertainment system, SIMPSONS DVDs and merchandise and tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood, home of The Simpsons Ride.

Anybody over the age of 13 can participate, and once they catch the shout-out, be sure to visit www.fox.com/scavengerhunt each night to test their knowledge and download some pretty cool Simpsons goodies. The contest officially starts after next week’s episode of Simpsons, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!