Get to Know Your Neighbors: Meet Phyllis Uyeno

Name: Phyllis Uyeno

Originally From: Memphis, TN

Previously Lived: In San Francisco. Moved to Alameda 8 years ago.

Family: Married with two kids. Son Sam is a senior at Alameda High, and daughter Doni is a freshman. Two dogs: Kobi and Stella.

What was the major reason for your move to Alameda? We were really looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.  We knew Alameda had a reputation for good schools, a family way of life, and safety.

What is your favorite thing about living here? Definitely my neighborhood. My kids really enjoy living here and we have a lot of our close friends within walking distance.  Also it's really easy to get to the city by public transportation.

What would you change about it? Well, I hate to say it, but we could use some more women's clothing stores.  The restaurants are getting better, that's for sure, but the school budget cuts are really making me mad. Overall though, I'm pretty darn happy here.

What are some of your favorite places or things to do in town? I love Nob Hill because it's so convenient, I walk over there all the time to go shopping. I love strolling down Park Street, and I think the new movie theater has been a big plus. Kamakura is our favorite restaurant.

What brought you to the Webster Street Jam today? I've been dying to hear that Michael Jackson band, Foreverland, and they were amazing.  I also like all the arts and crafts, and its fun to go on the other end of the island and meet new people.  It was like one big family out there--you see all your neighbors and everything--you just don't get that in the big city.