By Jean Sealey, Special to Bildor News
Spike Bill Ding gave up a glamorous life in Washington, D.C., to become NEFBA’s top new-member recruiter. With 2,585.75 credits to his name as of April 30, Ding is still going strong.
We have it from a (sometimes) reliable source that Bill Ding resided in the lobby of the Hilton Hotel in the nation’s capital. He had, however, become somewhat disenchanted with lolling around the lobby and watching the ineffectiveness of politicians and civic leaders.
NEFBA’s distinguished executive officer, who asked not to be named in the telling of this story, sensed Ding’s malaise and made Ding an offer he couldn’t refuse.
“Come to Jacksonville with me,” he suggested, “and you can make a name for yourself. You can join NEFBA and make a difference.”
Ding didn’t hesitate. He wanted to make a difference, so he jumped in the car with the persuasive EO and under cover of night, they made their way back to Jacksonville.
The year was 1987. Buddy James was president of NEFBA. James was a little suspicious of Ding and wondered whether the other members would accept him. The association in those days had a reputation for being a little on the conservative side and Ding didn’t exactly fit the profile of a NEFBA builder.
Once Ding demonstrated his value at recruiting, however, he was embraced by the membership.
And except for an unfortunate incident that resulted in a scuffle with Doug Wenzel over who had the most Spike credits and during which Ding lost an ear, Ding has enjoyed his tenure at NEFBA.
“NEFBA has been good to me and I may be able to return the favor,” he said. “I plan to return to Washington soon. I’m expecting a call any day — they need me in the White House. I won’t forget my friends when I’m in the Oval Office.”
Former Executive Officer Arnold Tritt contributed to this story.