Norton Says D.C. Has Lost a Legend with the Passing of Jim Vance

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) released the following statement on the passing of longtime WRC-TV anchor Jim Vance.

"The District of Columbia has lost a local legend with the passing of Jim Vance. Jim endeared himself to residents for decades by telling our city's story straight every evening, topped off with pointed commentary, which was particularly valued by his loyal viewers. He was a reliable eyewitness to D.C.'s most significant self-governance chapters, rising to the anchor's chair in 1972 as the District was on the cusp of the 1973 Home Rule Act. Through his more than four decades at WRC, Jim was ever-present as D.C. residents came close to gaining voting rights in Congress and continued on their march toward statehood. During the District's hardest days, from the crime epidemic and record homicides, to near bankruptcy, through it all, Jim was a reassuring presence. Having seen us through our darkest days, Jim must have had a seer's appreciation for today's booming D.C. economy. I last saw Jim at the unveiling of the new mural at Ben's Chili Bowl, where his legacy was honored and enshrined with a portrait of his beaming smile. Even without this lasting tribute, Jim Vance will always be remembered in the District of Columbia."