The Smile Behind Sharonville
At age 14, Sharonville Council’s First Woman President was running into burning buildings as part of her Explorer Firefighter training.
Sue Schindler has known and respected Vicki Brown Hoppe for a long time, and wanted to share some of Vicki’s story. Below is Sue’s words….
The Smile Behind Sharonville
It’s a warm summer weekend in July. For the past 9 years, the air is wrapped with the sounds of local bands, carnival rides and laughter in Sharonville’s Gower Park. Celebrating its 10th year anniversary on July 26 & 27, 2019, Sharonfest is a “Party with a Purpose” hosting local charities and fundraisers.
Sharonfest, now its own 501c3 nonprofit, grew out of the former Sharonville Fireman’s Festival and is the brainchild of Sharonville’s first woman President of Sharonville Council, Vicki Brown Hoppe. Well- known as a servant leader, this lifetime resident saw Sharonfest as an opportunity to support local charities. Sharonfest is Vicki’s proudest accomplishment (of many) and one that continues to provide fun through fundraising during this 2-day event.
Charities range from Princeton High School’s football team members running rides to hosting a game booth to Princeton City School District’s Board Member, Susan Wyder, promoting the Education Foundation. In addition to food trucks, live bands, and rides & games-for-all ages, Sharonfest is also home to a Saturday Motorcycle Fundraiser where all proceeds go to children’s charities including children’s cancer. 2019’s proceeds will go to Spina Bifida’s Rock and Roll event. New to the 2019 Sharonfest is a 250’ zip line and petting zoo.
Called by Wyder, as, “the glue that holds it all together!” it’s no surprise that Vicki comes from a family of strong community leadership, as demonstrated by her parents having over 50 combined years of coaching Sharonville Youth Organization (SYO) sports. Her father, brother, husband, uncle, father in law, sister in law and brother in law all served on the Sharonville Volunteer Fire Department. Vicki, herself was a member of the Sharonville Fire Department Explorer Post, training with the fireman working at the Fireman’s Festival. She also joined the working ranks as a Sharonville librarian assistant.
When asked why people would want to move to or stay in Sharonville, Vicki replied that she loves the “community feel” and unique businesses within 10-square miles. “We have a wonderful, diverse school district with all kinds of opportunities to meet people who are uniquely different. Not everyone is the ‘same.’ Our parks, recreation, Police and Fire services and our public works are second to none. Over 35 years, Sharonville has no property taxes. These opportunities ‘make people want to live here'”, she said.
As President of Sharonville Council, Vicki sets Sharonville policies & procedures and council committees and oversees council meetings. She shares that she has a special place in her heart for Veterans and has been involved with seeing over 125 Veterans receive their high school diplomas through the Veteran’s Day Graduation program at Princeton during her tenure with the district.
Vicki started her public service as a PTA president. She suggests to those seeking public service, “Don’t be afraid to get involved.” Serve on boards or committees, and talk to your mayor about vacancies. Come to council meetings. We have 1 person who attends, and council wants to hear from more.” Volunteer for festivals. Vicki points out that 15 families volunteer to make Sharonfest happen and recently received a Good Neighbor Award from Mayor Kevin Hardman for their tireless efforts. Vicki was nominated to run for council at large in 2006 with no looking back.
Whether running a council meeting, participating in Memorial or Veteran’s Day activities, visiting a local school or ensuring that families and organizations have needed support, Vicki is there for her Sharonville community. She definitely makes Sharonvillians smile.
