The mission statement for KOMU-TV affirms that station's strong commitment to community service. And in the many years I have lived in Columbia, I have always thought "Pepper & Friends" made a unique contribution to community service in Columbia. It is the only open forum to feature civic organizations, clubs, local schools, charities, alumni groups, music, theater and literary events, the Central Missouri Humane Society — as well as countless Columbia citizens from every walk of life.
While I understand the station faces financial problems it is also apparent that, in spite of the economic recession, the many local sponsors of "Pepper & Friends" continue to advertise as they have done for years. I hope some way can be found to save "Pepper & Friends." Its loss would be a loss for Columbia.