I ride the Jamis Coda Elite (one step up from Comp) and like a lot -- it's perfect for my 7 to 10 mile commute (each way). And light and responsive enough to enjoy longer weekend pleasure rides too. So I also endorse the Jamis Coda as a great solution for your ride.

Unlike Velogirl, I had to swap out the Excel tires it came with -- I had ridden them only about a week or two before they flatted after picking up a small glass sliver. Now I am a big guy (~200 lbs) so I am sure that contributed to the flat, tho I do top off the air pressure every morning before going to work.

After the flat, I replaced with Specialized Armadillos, which have been great.