AP's Jim Davenport gets well-deserved recognition

Being a statehouse reporter these days can be a lonely job with all the cutbacks, especially if you are an AP reporter to whom newspapers and broadcasters look even more to cover their flanks.

One of the best, the AP's Jim Davenport, has been struggling with cancer but still pressing ahead with his job of keeping the folks under the dome in Columbia honest. I had the pleasure of recommending Jim's hiring more than a dozen years ago and the distinct pleasure of working with him as he covered my news editor's flank with consistently stellar and solid reporting.

This week, Jim got a well-deserved honor, a resolution from the S.C. Senate recognizing his work:

A SENATE RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND COMMEND JIM DAVENPORT, ASSOCIATED PRESS REPORTER, FOR HIS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
Whereas, it is with great pleasure that the members of the South Carolina Senate recognize those who give of themselves for the betterment of this great state's citizenry; and
Whereas, Jim Davenport is among the most respected of such public benefactors, having devoted the past thirteen years to serving as political reporter for the Associated Press in the Palmetto State and, in so doing, helping to educate South Carolina's people on issues that vitally concern their well-being; and
Whereas, in preparation for his life's work, Mr. Davenport graduated from Summerville High School and the University of South Carolina. Prior to his years with the Associated Press, he served as a reporter with The State newspaper in Columbia; and
Whereas, over the course of his career, he has become known as one of the most talented, influential, and admired journalists in South Carolina. He is widely respected at the State House for his thoroughness, accuracy, fairness, and cool-headedness, along with his trademark tenacity, no matter how tight the deadline, no matter how big the story; and
Whereas, Jim Davenport has set the standard in State House and South Carolina political coverage for current journalists and generations of those to come. His intellect and knowledge of state government have made him a valuable force for indispensable public information in the political arena; and
Whereas, he has not gone unappreciated. In recognition of his consistent excellence in reporting, he was named 2009 Associated Press Staffer of the Year for South Carolina; and
Whereas, in addition to being an outstanding reporter, Jim Davenport is also a good friend. A devoted family man, as well, he enjoys the committed support of his wife, Debra, and daughter, Mary Catherine; and
Whereas, grateful for his dedication, the Senate is pleased to pause in its deliberations to honor Jim Davenport for his many years of valuable service to the people of South Carolina, and the members wish him much success and fulfillment in all his future endeavors. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, recognize and commend Jim Davenport, Associated Press reporter, for his distinguished service to the citizens of South Carolina.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be provided to Jim Davenport.

Here's wishing the best for Jim as he battles his illness. I'm proud to call Jim a fellow journalist, but even more proud to call him a friend.