I'm new here...though some may recognize me from TWC Classics.
The period from '98 to '03 strikes me as well-organized. Meaning, it seems like programming fit right in, and the program openers all matched. In my mind, you can't beat the '98-'01 openers. (Love the AM, Day, and PM backgrounds)
To add on: There wasn't any of this "Global Warming, Oh my!" business occurring, or at least nowhere near as much as today. TWC actually showed weather...not Storm Stories or other shows.