[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 108 (Wednesday, July 6, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1037]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO MR. JAMES E. DORA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TODD ROKITA

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 6, 2016

  Mr. ROKITA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a personal friend, 
Sigma Chi brother, and prominent Hoosier, Mr. James E. Dora, who passed 
away on June 27, 2016.
   Jim was born in Vincennes, Indiana and graduated from Purdue 
University where he was a member of the Delta Delta Chapter of Sigma 
Chi Fraternity. He gave back to his alma mater serving as Chairman to 
the President's Council, Vice Chairman of the Vision 21 Capital 
Campaign, as an Old Master and on the Advisory Board for the RHIT Hotel 
School. Purdue honored him in kind with the Purdue Order of the Griffin 
and an Honorary Doctorate Degree, and honor he also received from 
Vincennes University.
   Jim's commitment to Sigma Chi, its Purdue Chapter, and his brothers 
are reflected in his actions. He was co-chair of a complete renovation 
of the chapter house, including a $7.4 million fundraising campaign to 
achieve it. Jim was recognized by Sigma Chi earning the Significant Sig 
of Sigma Chi, Sigma Chi Hall of Fame, and the Order of the Constantine 
honors. He also received the Purdue Chapter Ben Taylor Award.
   As a businessman, Jim founded and chaired General Hotels 
Corporation, a developer and operator of award winning hotels 
throughout Central Indiana, including the upscale Crowne Plaza Holiday 
Inn at Union Station in Downtown Indianapolis. He served as Chairman of 
the International Association of Holiday Inn Owners and on the Board of 
Directors for American United Life Insurance Company, First Chicago, 
NBD, Bank One and the Mayflower Corporation.
   Jim was also a selfless advocate for the City of Indianapolis. He 
was a member of numerous boards and committees, including the Capital 
Improvement Board of Managers from 1971-1993 and served as President 
from 1985-1993. His service coincided with and was instrumental in the 
growth and development of Downtown Indianapolis and the Colts 
relocation to our city in 1984. Jim also served on the Educational 
CHOICE Charitable Trust, Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, Downtown 
Indy, Inc. and more. Jim was twice named a Sagamore of the Wabash, the 
state's highest honor for a citizen.
   Jim and I shared a love for aviation, our home state of Indiana and 
public service. His whole-hearted support of my public service efforts 
and the efforts of those like me has been invaluable as I served 
Hoosiers for the past 13 years. Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 
57 years, Shirley, four children, and 11 grandchildren. I believe this 
world is a better place because of his compassionate service to our 
community, state and nation. In this sign you will conquer (In hoc 
signo vinces) Jim, you will not be forgotten.

                          ____________________