Meet Sharon Jones-Scaife!
Published October 9, 2024
Linda Vinson,
Communications Director,
Plano Bicycle Association
1. Have you always lived in this area? If not, where are you from?
I was born and raised in Marvell, Arkansas. After graduating from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, I moved to Dallas.
2. How did you start cycling?
In 2015, I began running with Black Girls Run to cope with the loss of my husband, Albert. A few years later, in 2018, I decided to give cycling a try and instantly fell in love with it. Cycling became my escape at the end of a long day and my energizing boost to start a new one.
My motto is: “Fear fuels greatness—dream bigger, aim higher.” So, if your dream doesn’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough.
3. How did you learn about PBA? How long have you been a member?
In 2019, I did my first group ride with a group of ladies. I showed up on my son’s old mountain bike, which I quickly learned wasn’t the best choice for the ride, LOL! Thankfully, the bike shop loaned me a proper bike. At the time, I knew nothing about cycling or bikes. Early in the ride, a young woman rode up beside me and said, “Let me show you how to use those gears.” All I knew was that her name was Jennifer. Fast forward a year, I was searching for a faster individual or group to ride with in my area. I commented on a Facebook post from a local cyclist, and it turned out to be the same Jennifer who had helped me a year earlier—talk about a small world! She and her husband, Darnell Johnson, later invited me to a few of their rides and later a few PBA rides, and the rest is history! I loved the rides and the camaraderie, and a few months later, I officially became a member of PBA.
4. What do you enjoy most about cycling and PBA?
I enjoy the freedom and connection with nature that comes with moving under your own power, feeling the wind, and experiencing different landscapes. When it comes to PBA, this sense of freedom is enhanced by the camaraderie and shared experience. Riding alongside other cyclists not only makes the journey more enjoyable but also adds an element of social interaction and mutual encouragement. The collective energy and support from other PBA members make each ride more memorable, offering opportunities to make friends and create lasting memories while exploring routes and pushing each other to new heights.
5. Do you have any favorite rides or routes?
I don’t have any specific favorite rides or routes. I really enjoy a challenge, so any ride that pushes me physically or mentally is what I’m drawn to. Whether it’s a tough climb, a long-distance ride, or unfamiliar paths, I’m always looking for something that keeps me motivated and makes me stronger.
6. What advice would you give someone new to cycling?
Starting with cycling can be both thrilling and daunting, so begin by setting small goals and celebrating your progress. Embrace the freedom and joy of riding and use tools like tracking apps to see how you improve over time. Connect with the PBA community for support and camaraderie, and view challenges as chances to grow. Reward yourself for achieving milestones and savor the adventure of discovering new routes. Be patient with yourself and keep your initial motivations in mind to stay inspired on those tougher days.
7. Is there anything else you would like the PBA club to know about you?
I would like the PBA club to know that I am the owner of Coffee Creek Media Group, and author of the series, Lil’ Marco and Friends. The companies making up Coffee Creek Media Group are Frog Pond Publishing (Kids, Teens, and Adults), Teen Graffiti Magazine, and SJS Graphic Arts. Our mission is to help further our efforts to close the literacy gap and increase representation in literature by putting more books featuring diverse characters into the hands of all children. Coffee Creek Media Group is driven by a commitment to serve all segments of the graphic design, illustrating, publishing, and printing industries, empowering a stronger, more connected world.
My journey into the world of children’s literature started in 2018 after the passing of my husband, Albert. Seeking ways to connect with my grandkids, help them through the grieving process, and introduce them to the wonders of reading, I discovered the immense potential of books in shaping young minds. I soon realized that this love for storytelling and knowledge-sharing could be extended to a broader audience. Motivated by my belief that books are essential tools for imparting life lessons and cultivating young minds, I set out on a mission to create a range of high-quality literature for young readers. In addition to writing my books, I also illustrate them.
When I’m not writing, designing or illustrating, I love staying active through cycling, running, weightlifting, and playing softball. I also cherish time with my family, which includes my two adult sons, three grandkids, siblings, niece, nephews, and my fur baby, Venus.
My philosophy is simple: everyone can find themselves in the pages of a book. Whether it’s through a character who shares your dreams or a story that sparks your imagination, books have a unique way of connecting us to new perspectives. They remind us that we’re never alone in our experiences, and there’s always a place for everyone between the lines. I’m here to help you discover those stories and make sure you find just the right one that speaks to you.
CALLING ALL CYCLISTS! NEWS ALERT!!! UPCOMING BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT!!!
Do you have a fun, entertaining, or inspiring cycling story to share? I’m excited to announce that beginning in October, I will begin the development of my long awaited seven-book series on cycling, tentatively called “Just Ride.” This series will be my first full series of chapter books for kids aged 6 and up, and I’m looking for cyclists to interview and contribute their stories.
Whether it’s an unforgettable adventure, a lesson learned on two wheels, or a moment that made you smile, your story could motivate the next generation of cyclists! The series will focus on stories that are fun, educational, and encouraging—helping kids discover the joys of cycling while learning valuable life lessons.
If you’ve got a tale to tell, I’d love to hear from you! Follow me on my social media pages Instagram: @coffeecreekmediagroup or @sharon_jones.scaife Facebook: @coffeecreekmediagroup or @sharon jones-scaife TikTok: @authorsharonjonesscaife or visit my website http://www.lilmarcoandfriends.com for updates and information on how to submit an inquiry to be considered for the series.
Additionally, there will be sponsorship opportunities for businesses, organizations, cycling clubs, and individuals to sponsor a book or the entire series. This is a great way to support the project and get involved in encouraging kids to embrace cycling!
Click here to read original article at planocycling.org.
