Special to the
Opelika Observer
Roger Bell, long-time chair of the Victorian Front Porch Tour (VFPT) announced his retirement after 19 years serving the Northside Historic District. The City of Opelika and the Opelika Northside Historic Neighborhood Association extend a thank you to Bell for his dedication and passion for the VFPT.
“Roger has been involved since 2001. I am eternally grateful for his hard work. This was a labor of love for Roger and Opelika is fortunate to have such a wonderful event to share,” said Mayor Gary Fuller.
Hunter Thorington, President of the Northside Historic Neighborhood Association, added, “As Roger steps down, we’re excited to announce that Tracie Davis Allen will be the new chair of the tour. We look forward to seeing what Tracie brings to the table to improve on an already memorable Christmas event. Tracie is energetic and eager to bring the Victorian Front Porch Tour to a whole new level.”
The VFPT began in 1993 with just a few homes participating, but has grown to include 60 homes on North 8th and 9th street. The homes are decorated with life size Santas, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures. The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour has been voted one of the southeast’s top-rated tourism events and featured in Better
Homes and Gardens and Southern Living.
For more information about how you can get involved with the VFPT, call Tracie Davis Allen at 334–744-1339.