Those of us who are lucky enough to work at 935 Gravier in New Orleans CBD know the face of "Mr. Good Morning" even if we don't know his name. Mr. James “Major” Bills is the happy, smiling face that greets many of us on our way in and out of the building. He often calls people by their first name, showing his friendly disposition and good character. It's a wonder how tragedy strikes any one person at any given time. On Friday March 17th 2017 Mr. James received a call that would undoubtedly impact the rest of his life. After watching the morning news Mr. James would come to find out in that phone call that the victim he saw slain on the television was his first born son. Verrick Bills was murdered in cold blood and left to die alone in a parking lot. Although, due to an ongoing investigation the circumstances are unknown, reports cite an argument early Friday morning. An Argument...is this the standard by which life is deemed worthy/disposable? With no suspect(s) in custody how are we to know? What we do know is that nobody deserves to die like that. No family should ever have to get that call. For those of us who live and work in New Orleans violence and tragedy are ongoing themes that occur year in and year out. What can WE do to make a difference?
     The building and friends of Mr. James would like to assist the Bills family with any financial hardship that may arise as a result of this tragic loss. Whether it be for memorial services or to sustain the children and pregnant girlfriend (Robin), Verrick left behind, anything is appreciated. We have a goal of $10,000 dollars in donations and would like to raise funds as soon as possible to help relieve the stress that this family is enduring. While nothing can ever ease the pain of losing a child…we can only hope to put a smile back on the face of the man who is responsible for so many of ours. This small gesture may just help to lighten a heavy burden placed on the Bills family and will also give us a chance to show how people band together to take care of one of their own.
    Please join us in bringing this goal to fruition by donating any denomination of money you see fit. Below is a link to the Nola.com article that inspired this movement. Thank you all so much for taking the time out of your day to add to the wellbeing of  another.  
  
http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2017/03/victim_of_fridays_fatal_shooti.html#incart_most-read_crime_article

http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2017/03/algiers_homicide_shooting_kabe.html

http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2017/03/fatal_shooting_in_the_3400_blo.html