by Michael Bonts
Special to the Daily Record
Put another feather in his fur.
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is recognizing Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) mascot “Bill-Ding” for his knack of recruiting new members. Bill Ding ranked second nationally in the Distinguished Spike of Recruitment Award Competition.
He will be awarded a customized plaque and Ruby Spike lapel pin at the NAHB International Builders Show in Las Vegas next month.
He will even have his mug flashed on the Jumbotron in the convention hall.
But being a celebrity is nothing new to Bill Ding.
One of the highlights was receiving a standing ovation from NEFBA’s members as he was presented with his green jacket symbolizing his qualifying as a Life Spike (number 011897-001) for signing up 25 new members.
He has worked with some of the finest members of the construction trade and met many national presidents, including Danny Pincus, Roger Glunt, Mark Tipton, Charlie Ruma, and most recently shared a TV interview with NAHB president Gary Garczynski. He also had his beautiful black-and-white pelt petted off when visiting local elementary schools.”
NEFBA’s panda mascot, celebrated his 17th anniversary in North Florida on Christmas Day.
His anniversary was a relatively quiet affair at his request — no party, no fuss, no hullabaloo — just his favorite snacks and a few long-time pals.
Not one for talking much, Ding reminisced about his life since arriving in Northeast Florida.
“I find I am quite in demand with the association membership as well as outside folks,” said the China native. “At many of the places I appear on behalf of the association, I am applauded by crowds and am usually escorted by police motorcade. All in all though, I lead an extremely bearable life — nothing ‘panda-monious’ about it.”
Ding says he’s very different than those he grew up around.
“I disliked living in isolated areas covered by dense mists and heavy rains; it really messes up the fur! And, while the bamboo industry proved to be lucrative for my family, I knew I had a different destiny, somewhere beyond gathering bamboo stalks and leaves.”
While bamboo may still be his favorite snack, Ding has acquired a more sophisticated palate since arriving at NEFBA. Now black-tie affairs (which he is well equipped for with his white fur with broad bands of black across his shoulders) are the norm.
“He has been a real joy to have around. He’s low maintenance and tends to be quiet,” said NEFBA executive vice president Arnold Tritt, who is responsible for bringing Bill Ding to Jacksonville.
(Michael Bonts is communications director for the Northeast Florida Builders Association.)