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M. Lisa Bowie-Moon, 56, Skyline Graduate Passes With No Regrets for Her Life

Published

6 years ago

June 3, 2020

Lisa Bowie-Moon was born on August 13, 1964, in Oakland, CA. She is better known as Lisa and Li to her family.

She is the second daughter of six between the union of Wilma Jean and John F. Moon. Both were from Monroe, Georgia and both are deceased, including their first daughter, “Baby Darla,” who passed shortly after birth.

Lisa had an interest in all that life had to offer to name a few, she loved and supported the performing arts. She played and owned her own clarinet, participated in the yearly Christmas Pageants, owned her own bowling ball with shoes, pool stick with case and did all kinds of ballerina performances. As a Skyline graduate, Lisa went on to acquire her AA from the East Bay Community College and then her B.A. at Almeda University with a major in Accounting. Lisa Mastered the art of accounting and financial competencies and statements.

Lisa met her future husband, Michael A. Bowie on July 19, 1983. They kept running into each other over the course of several years, always picking up where they left off, even after forming their union. At one time they worked in the same building on the same floor, but for different companies.

Lisa’s biggest joy and interest were the uprisings of the youth. She had a natural “motherly” gift of both wisdom and compassion toward bringing out the best in children. She helped rear five children, none of them were her biological children. She would up left the relationship between parents and their children. She had countless positive influences with children throughout her lifetime. Lisa had a heartfelt talent of giving a perspective that would maintain the growth and integrity of each individual child regardless of their situation and circumstances.

On June 8, 2000, Michael and Lisa made common law commitment to each other. Michael put her on the real property, Lisa changed her name to M. Lisa Bowie-Moon and each did a ring exchange. They became inseparable throughout the challenging conditions both collectively and individually, as well as their respective families. Coincidentally, his family was from Monroe, Louisiana.

In November 2012, Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer. She decided to go all organic and change her fast-food lifestyle. She acquired a team of holistic and traditional doctors. This was with the full support of her husband. Lisa never let cancer stop her from moving forward. She would never give the cancer power by saying “my cancer,” but rather “the cancer” or “the ‘c’ that should not be mentioned.” Lisa had fought and recovered from several illnesses, including an operation to remove 16 fibrous cells of various sizes. They were blocking her uterus and causing severe bleeding. This caused other related problems which she struggled with and also overcame.

On Nov. 12, 2013, and once the last child reached 18 in July of 2013, Michael and Lisa celebrated a reunion of vows and officially married at the City Hall of Alameda. The Mayor presided over the ceremony, four of the reared children, families, and numerous friends present. The City put the wedding on their website that is currently the most viewed. They continued with a one-horse carriage ride around Alameda and then to the reception at Pasta Pelican. The owner added special appetizers and salads beyond the agreed menu. There were volunteers playing the harp and guitar. There were students from Berkeley giving them a traditional “Mayan” spiritual union in “Aztec” costumes. There was a special cake with cupcake sidings presented to them at cost.

Afterward, there was a limousine ride to Treasure Island with picture-perfect evening weather. There was an extremely bright Northern Star looming over their heads. The scene looked more like a backdrop when they took the pictures together. Days later they set off on a 5-day cruise with a stop at their favorite place the Catalina Islands.

Prior to the wedding, they had an African Mindful-Drumming session with family and friends. The famous Kokomon Clottey from Ghana leading the session. He and his family had known the couple many years prior.

Lisa greatest business interests were in the field of accounting technologies. After many struggles in the employment systems, Lisa became proactive, innovative and highly influential, while surpassing demanding performance goals and deadlines. She then formed her own business called NMRK, Inc. She specialized in Quick Books and was quickly referred to as “QBQ”, Quick Books Queen. She became so popular in her area of expertise, that one company flew her to Long Beach. Then a helicopter ride to Avión Hospital in Catalina to straighten out their several years of neglected accounting. She received outstanding financial rewards, praises, befriended an East Indian woman who assisted her, and saved the hospital account for the company. Michael joined her on the second day of the seven-day assignment.

Lisa was rightfully convinced, upon study and actual proof within her own daily life, that All of these talents and more, were enhanced upon practicing “Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo”. Lisa then joined the SGI-USA, a Buddhist Lay Organization and practiced in Coliseum District alongside her Myoho Brothers and Sisters. Over time she introduced her entire Family. Even her estranged relationship with her father changed for the better. He and her brother attended discussion and study meetings. Lisa gladly dedicated her accounting skills and resources to the SGI and their youth division.

Lisa’s last station of employment was a Senior Staff Accountant for ConnectED. The National Center for College students entering into careers and HS students entering into college.

Lisa passed and transitioned on Feb. 27, 2020, with her husband at her side caressing her arm and chanting “Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo”, two brothers by the foot of her bed, and children coming from various parts of the USA rushing to her side.

Lisa leaves to cherish her memories: her husband, Michael A. Bowie, her siblings, Melissa Moon-Brown, Ursula Moon, Marc Moon, Lance Moon, Jeffrey Moon, Aunt Linda, Uncle Jimmie, Cousin Kris, Aunt-in-law, Romona Bowie-Mitchell, Sisters-in-law, Unikka Moon and Phyllis G. Bowie, Children: Chris Stevenson, Porsche Bowie, Anthony Bowie, Olivia (Livy) Evans-Pittman, Nicki Evans-Pittman, several Nieces and Nephews and numerous friends.

Saskia Hatvany

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Big God Ministry Gives Away Toys in Marin City

Pastor Hall also gave a message of encouragement to the crowd, thanking Jesus for the “best year of their lives.” He asked each of the children what they wanted to be when they grow up.

Published

7 hours ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

From top left: Pastor David Hall asking the children what they want to be when they grow up. Worship team Jake Monaghan, Ruby Friedman, and Keri Carpenter. Children lining up to receive their presents. Photos by Godfrey Lee.

By Godfrey Lee

Big God Ministries, pastored by David Hall, gave toys to the children in Marin City on Monday, Dec. 15, on the lawn near the corner of Drake Avenue and Donahue Street.

Pastor Hall also gave a message of encouragement to the crowd, thanking Jesus for the “best year of their lives.” He asked each of the children what they wanted to be when they grew up.

Around 75 parents and children were there to receive the presents, which consisted mainly of Gideon Bibles, Cat in the Hat pillows, Barbie dolls, Tonka trucks, and Lego building sets.

A half dozen volunteers from the Big God Ministry, including Donnie Roary, helped to set up the tables for the toy giveaway. The worship music was sung by Ruby Friedman, Keri Carpenter, and Jake Monaghan, who also played the accordion.

Big God Ministries meets on Sundays at 10 a.m. at the Mill Valley Community Center, 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, CA Their phone number is (415) 797-2567.

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First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers

“Family, Friend, and Neighbor caregivers are lifelines for so many children and families in Alameda County,” said Kristin Spanos, CEO, First 5 Alameda County. “Yet, they often go unrecognized and undercompensated for their labor and ability to give individualized, culturally connected care. At First 5, we support the conditions that allow families to thrive, and getting this money into the hands of these caregivers and families at a time of heightened financial stress for parents is part of that commitment.”

Published

7 hours ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

Costco. Courtesy image.

Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregivers Can Now Opt Into $4,000 Grants to Help Bolster Economic Stability and Strengthen Early Learning Experiences

By Post Staff

Today, First 5 Alameda County announced the distribution of $4,000 relief grants to more than 2,000 Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers, totaling over $8 million in the first round of funding. Over the full course of the funding initiative, First 5 Alameda County anticipates supporting over 3,000 FFN caregivers, who collectively care for an estimated 5,200 children across Alameda County. These grants are only a portion of the estimated $190 million being invested into expanding our early childcare system through direct caregiver relief to upcoming facilities, shelter, and long-term sustainability investments for providers fromMeasure C in its first year. This investment builds on the early rollout of Measure C and reflects a comprehensive, system-wide strategy to strengthen Alameda County’s early childhood ecosystem so families can rely on sustainable, accessible care,

These important caregivers provide child care in Alameda County to their relatives, friends, and neighbors. While public benefits continue to decrease for families, and inflation and the cost of living continue to rise, these grants provide direct economic support for FFN caregivers, whose wages have historically been very low or nonexistent, and very few of whom receive benefits. As families continue to face growing financial pressures, especially during the winter and holiday season, these grants will help these caregivers with living expenses such as rent, utilities, supplies, and food.

The funding for these relief grants comes from Measure C, a local voter-approved sales tax in Alameda County that invests in young children, their families, communities, providers, and caregivers. Within the first year of First 5’s 5-Year Plan for Measure C, in addition to the relief grants to informal FFN caregivers, other significant investments will benefit licensed child care providers. These investments include over $40 million in Early Care and Education (ECE) Emergency Grants, which have already flowed to nearly 800 center-based and family child care providers. As part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, preparations are also underway to distribute facilities grants early next year for child care providers who need to make urgent repairs or improvements, and to launch the Emergency Revolving Fund in Spring 2026 to support licensed child care providers in Alameda County who are at risk of closure.

The FFN Relief Grants recognize and support the essential work that an estimated 3,000 FFN caregivers provide to 5,200 children in Alameda County. There is still an opportunity to receive funds for FFN caregivers who have not yet received them.

In partnership with First 5 Alameda County, Child Care Payment Agencies play a critical role in identifying eligible caregivers and leading coordinated outreach efforts to ensure FFN caregivers are informed of and able to access these relief funds.FFN caregivers are eligible for the grant if they receive a child care payment from an Alameda County Child Care Payment Agency, 4Cs of Alameda County, BANANAS, Hively, and Davis Street, and are currently caring for a child 12 years old or younger in Alameda County. Additionally, FFN caregivers who provided care for a child 12 years or younger at any time since April 1, 2025, but are no longer doing so, are also eligible for the funds. Eligible caregivers are being contacted by their Child Care Payment Agency on a rolling basis, beginning with those who provided care between April and July 2025.

“This money is coming to me at a critical time of heightened economic strain,” said Jill Morton, a caregiver in Oakland, California. “Since I am a non-licensed childcare provider, I didn’t think I was eligible for this financial support. I was relieved that this money can help pay my rent, purchase learning materials for the children as well as enhance childcare, buy groceries and take care of grandchildren.”

Eligible FFN caregivers who provided care at any time between April 1, 2025 and July 31, 2025, who haven’t yet opted into the process, are encouraged to check their mail and email for an eligibility letter. Those who have cared for a child after this period should expect to receive communications from their child care payment agency in the coming months. FFN caregivers with questions may also contact the agency they work with to receive child care payments, or the First 5 Alameda help desk, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST, at 510-227-6964. The help desk will be closed 12/25/25 – 1/1/26. Additional grant payments will be made on a rolling basis as opt-ins are received by the four child care payment agencies in Alameda County.

Beginning in the second year of Measure C implementation, FFN caregivers who care for a child from birth to age five and receive an Alameda County subsidized voucher will get an additional $500 per month. This amounts to an annual increase of about $6,000 per child receiving a subsidy. Together with more Measure C funding expected to flow back into the community as part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, investments will continue to become available in the coming year for addressing the needs of childcare providers in Alameda County.

About First 5 Alameda County

First 5 Alameda County builds the local childhood systems and supports needed to ensure our county’s youngest children are safe, healthy, and ready to succeed in school and life.

Our Mission

In partnership with the community, we support a county-wide continuous prevention and early intervention system that promotes optimal health and development, narrows disparities, and improves the lives of children from birth to age five and their families.

Our Vision

Every child in Alameda County will have optimal health, development, and well-being to reach their greatest potential.

Learn more at www.first5alameda.org.

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Activism

2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Assemblymember Lori Wilson — Advocate for Equity, the Environment, and More

Her rise has also included several historic firsts: she is the only Black woman ever appointed to lead the influential Assembly Transportation Committee, and the first freshman legislator elected Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. She has also been a vocal advocate for vulnerable communities, becoming the first California legislator to publicly discuss being the parent of a transgender child — an act of visibility that has helped advanced representation at a time when political tensions related to social issues and culture have intensified.

Published

7 hours ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City). File photo.

By Edward Henderson, California Black Media

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) joined the California Legislature in 2022 after making history as Solano County’s first Black female mayor, bringing with her a track record of fiscal discipline, community investment, and inclusive leadership.

She represents the state’s 11th Assembly District, which spans Solano County and portions of Contra Costa and Sacramento Counties.

California Black Media spoke with Wilson about her successes and disappointments this year and her outlook for 2026.

What stands out as your most important achievement this year?

Getting SB 237 passed in the Assembly. I had the opportunity to co-lead a diverse workgroup of colleagues, spanning a wide range of ideological perspectives on environmental issues.

How did your leadership contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians this year?

The Black Caucus concentrated on the Road to Repair package and prioritized passing a crucial bill that remained incomplete during my time as chair, which establishes a process for identifying descendants of enslaved people for benefit eligibility.

What frustrated you the most this year?

The lack of progress made on getting Prop 4 funds allocated to socially disadvantaged farmers. This delay has real consequences. These farmers have been waiting for essential support that was promised. Watching the process stall, despite the clear need and clear intent of the voters, has been deeply frustrating and reinforces how much work remains to make our systems more responsive and equitable.

What inspired you the most this year?

The resilience of Californians persists despite the unprecedented attacks from the federal government. Watching people stay engaged, hopeful, and determined reminded me why this work matters and why we must continue to protect the rights of every community in our state.

What is one lesson you learned this year that will inform your decision-making next year?

As a legislator, I have the authority to demand answers to my questions — and accept nothing less. That clarity has strengthened my approach to oversight and accountability.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians are facing currently?

Affordability and access to quality educational opportunities.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2026?

Advance my legislative agenda despite a complex budget environment. The needs across our communities are real, and even in a tight fiscal year, I’m committed to moving forward policies that strengthen safety, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life for the people I represent.