In Memory of Phil Rabe
Earlier this year, Phil Rabe passed away. I covered the story in my July 13, 2025 report and wrote, “I am pretty sure that most of you did not know who Phil was, but for those who celebrate Halloween like it’s a religious holiday, Phil’s Foreboding Lane Halloween yard display was legendary.”
Phil was an exhibit designer for Cultural Crossovers where he designed, fabricated, and installed original exhibits. Prior to that, he worked for Acme Scenery Co. designing and building “mechanical film effects for major TV ads.” He was a major contributor to the Alameda Halloween scene. I documented the 2023 and 2024 Foreboding Lane displays, which I have included in this report.
Most of my daily excursions took me past Phil’s house, and as Halloween approached, I looked forward to each nightly walk to see how Foreboding Way was progressing. This year’s Halloween is just a bit melancholy for me, because this year, what was Phil’s Halloween canvas is just a yard absent of any symbol of Phil’s work. So, on Halloween, I went to Phil’s place and shared a cup of potion with my human companion and hoped that wherever Phil is, he knows that Foreboding Lane still lives on with this report and dedication. Rest in peace, Phil.
On a happier note, I am excited to report that canines of all shapes and sizes were prominently featured this year in many yard scenes. I assembled a special reel so you can view them as a themed movie.
There did not seem to be an easy way to bring my readers all the great scenes I saw over the past week. Some yards only had a skeleton or a string of pumpkin lights while other locations had full-blown movie sets.
I have assembled the images into three videos for your viewing pleasure. Where there were larger displays with multiple images, I included the address so you can check them out.
All these efforts were spectacular in their own way, and I want to acknowledge everyone’s effort no matter what the size. Each of you made my walks so enjoyable and downright exciting. Thank you one and all.
I want to take this opportunity to thank John Gregory Sanchez for sending me the Snoopy Halloween image he found inside Alameda High School. It was heartwarming to know that the younger generation still appreciates the charm and wit this beagle brings to us.
Finally, and in keeping with my commitment to bringing the more subtle expressions of the season, I share with you an image that demonstrates the extreme self-control I managed to muster and dedication to getting the perfect shot for these reports. This particular feline had no idea of the potential danger he was in.
PS: I still have one more yard display to cover so look for my Halloween post mortem report next week.
Onward into Christmas (NOT!!)
Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda
Mouf and his human companion can be reached via [email protected]. Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/. All photos and videos by Jeff Cambra.
