Mesa's Family Guide

Apr. 29th - Dec. 31st

Learn From the Best Anywhere, Anytime - Full Scholarships Available

Key Features of Self-Paced Learning With Digital Media Academy:

Learn anywhere, any time
Progress at your own pace
No pre-requisites
No special software or hardware required
Access the same courses presented by Digital Media Academy at prestigious universities around the world
Courses are aligned with global standards
Receive a Digital Media Academy certificate upon completion
What's better than attending an innovative digital media or technology course at a prestigious university campus like Stanford University? Doing so in your own home, at your own pace.

Whether you live in a time zone that makes attending a live Digital Media Academy course difficult, or you want the freedom to move more quickly or slowly through the material, Digital Media Academy's self-paced digital media and technology courses might be just what you're looking for.

Developed by industry and curriculum experts, and tested and proven by over 500,000 students throughout the past 20 years, these courses allow young learners to explore their passions and develop 21st century skills.

Although these courses have traditionally been delivered live and in-person on North America's most prestigious university campuses, the self-paced format allows students aged 5 to 18 the world over to experience Digital Media Academy's unique educational offerings.

Not only that, but after the great success of the spring break virtual camp scholarship program, Digital Media Academy is offering Ten Thousand FULL scholarships for talented students who would benefit from a self-paced learning experience.

Why Self-Paced Learning?

Studies have shown that when students are given the ability to decide for themselves how much time to spend learning new material, they perform better because they are able to focus their efforts on concepts they find personally challenging.

Digital Media Academy recognizes the advantage of a self-paced format not only for student performance, but for accessibility as well. Knowing that not every student lives close to a campus where courses are offered, or even in a convenient time zone to attend a virtual course, Digital Media Academy wanted to offer the same high quality of digital media and technology education that has been delivered live for the past 20 years in a format that would ensure as many young learners as possible would have access to it.

The self-paced format allows learners of all backgrounds to enrich their learning, explore potential career paths, ignite their passion and build a foundation of knowledge and skills that are not only exciting but in-demand.

What to Expect from a Self-Paced Tech Course at Digital Media Academy

With over self-paced 30 courses available across 6 categories, there is sure to be something that piques the interest of the young learner in your life. Courses are available for ages 5-8, 9-12 and 13-18, in the following categories:

Digital Storytelling
Game Development
Creative Design
Computer Science + AI
Robotics + Engineering
Business + Entrepreneurship
Each course has 5 or 6 modules, and requires an average of 12-15 hours to complete. While participants are given three months to work through the course at their own pace, a particularly motivated learner could complete a course in a matter of days. It all depends on the learner's schedule, preferences and needs.

No special equipment is required, and if a participant has questions, they can ask a virtual teacher. Learning and progress will be assessed through automated quizzes and assignments.

Upon completion of a course, learners will receive certificates demonstrating their achievement, which include the seal of alignment with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).

Who Should Consider a Self-Paced Course?

Digital Media Academy's courses enhance students' academic opportunities by offering research-based, 21st century learning in areas like game design, coding, animation, and other subjects that aren't always comprehensively covered in school.

Our self-paced courses are designed for young learners aged 5 to 18 with an aptitude for digital media or tech subjects who would benefit from gaining a foundation of understanding in that subject.

Course options include:

Ages 9-12:

Encryption, Cyphers and Digital Detectives
Design Challenges
Fun With Robots
And more
Ages 13-18:

App Designer Studio
Introduction to 3D Modeling in Tinkercard
Show and Tell: Script and Storyboard
And more
Do you know a self-motivated young learner whose interest might be sparked by an engaging digital media or technology foundation course offered by a certified, trusted and proven education institution?

Don't miss this opportunity to inspire them!

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Aug. 16th

Join Jenn for her virtual meetup to talk all things surrogacy. Intended Parents, Surrogates, and anyone interested in the surrogacy process, we look forward to speaking with you! 9am PT/10am MT/11am CT/12pm ET!
Meeting link: https://zoom.us/j/95193201666

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Sep. 10th

Date
Saturday, September 10, 2022

Time
8:00am to 10:00am

Location
Gila River Arena
9400 W Maryland Ave
Glendale AZ 85305

About
Remembering Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice

In honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11/2001, and in continued honor of our first responders and military who protect us from foreign and domestic threats, we gather to pay our respects at the annual 911 Tower Challenge.

The World Trade Center's Twin Towers each consisted of 110 floors and 2071 steps, and each year thousands of people across Arizona walk, climb and run the stairs to remember. Firefighters in full gear, Police, Military and Bomb Squad personnel march steadily alongside civilians of varying ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Photographs of our fallen heroes line the stairs, and participants pause briefly to read the names in recognition of the sacrifice each made while in the service of others. This powerful morning will reconnect you to the kindness, strength and bravery exhibited on that dark day.

Together we vow to Never Forget.

Proceeds go to support The 100 Club of Arizona. For more information, please visit the 100 Club of Arizona's website.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where is the event in Phoenix held?

The Tower Challenge will be held at the Gila River Arena in Glendale.

What time does the event start?

The opening ceremonies begin promptly at 0800 so please ensure to allow enough time to park and check in prior to that time. We recommend arriving 30 minutes early.

What precautions are you taking to protect against COVID-19?

We are monitoring the situation and working with the venue to ensure the safest situation for everyone and will implement any required minimum distances and protocols required by the venue. Masks are not required.

When do I need to register by?

Early registration ends August 6 with a guaranteed t-shirt size of choice and we are also limiting the number of in-person attendees, so it's critical to sign up early to ensure you get a spot.

Having an early registration allows us to guarantee t-shirt sizes and ensure they arrive in time for packet pickup prior to the event. After early registration has ended on August 6, the entry fee will rise, and t-shirt sizes will no longer be guaranteed.

All registrations will end August 31 or when event capacity is reached. If available, late registration will open September 1 and end September 6.

When is packet pickup?

We will offer 3 offsite locations for packet pick up (Glendale, Phoenix and East Valley) prior to the event. We will send details as the date gets closer and can check our website at 100club.org for updated information.

Can I register on the day of the event?

Only if we have not reached event capacity! Please click on the "Register to Climb" link above, and if there's room, you'll be able to register. Remember that sales close between 9/6 - 9/9 and reopen on 9/10 if available.

Once capacity is reached, we will be unable to accommodate day-of registrants. Please be aware that for day-of registrants, a t-shirt is not guaranteed, and you may miss the beginning of the event. We highly recommend registering for the event prior to its start time.

How do I join a team after registering as an individual?

If you're joining a team, be sure to get the team name from the Team Captain first and put that team name in the notes when registering.

Can children attend the event?

Children must be 16 & older to climb the stairs, and may not be carried on the stairs during the event, however they may participate in the concourse walk. Child care is not provided, however each location will have a designated area for children with their guardians.

I'd like to watch the event as a non-participant, or I'm participating in the event and bringing someone along to watch. How do I reserve a spot?

All non-participants must be supporting a registered individual. To reserve a spot, select the "Non-Participant Attendee" free registration and fill out the information. As a requirement of attending, you'll need to put in the name of the person that is being supported and we will check to ensure that person is registered.

Where do I park?

Park in the Gila River Area parking lot. Parking is complimentary.

What should I bring with me to the event?

Comfortable clothing, running shoes/sneakers, and the badge you received in your registration bag (this gains you entry to the event). We provide water at the event, but please hydrate the day before!

Will there be heat waves to start the event?

Yes, on a first-come, first-served basis. Everyone will receive a wristband denoting which wave they will be part of. Teams do not need to walk together, but if there is a preference to do so, we recommend ensuring your team arrives together to the event.

I'm much (faster/slower) than the others. What should I do?

First, please remember that this is a memorial event and personal challenge, and not a fitness competition. Please be respectful to everyone around you and be aware of your surroundings as you progress. Almost all of the staircases will be split into two, divided by a handrail, so the general rule is that slower climbers stay to the right, and faster climbers stay to the left. All first responders in full turnout get the right of way. Please be respectful of each one and give them plenty of space during their climb.

For fast climbers, please be sure to stay to the left, and be patient if you find that you're behind someone slower than yourself. You'll get a chance to pass at the top of each staircase. For slower climbers, stay to the right, and feel free to step out of the aisle and into the stands to let others pass if you wish; or if you want to pass another slow climber, please ensure the way is clear before moving to the left side, making your pass, and then move back to the right.

What should I do if I need a break or need help?

Anyone who needs a break is welcome to take a seat in the stands. If you're a climber and you'd like to switch to the walk, you may be permitted to do so as you wish. If you need help, please find one of our volunteers.

How long does the climb typically take to complete?

While this ranges based on experience level, we see anywhere from 30 minutes at best to an hour at most, but the majority of attendees complete it within 45 minutes.

Can I wear my gear, such as body armor or other personal protective equipment?

Absolutely. We love to have firefighters in full turnout, police and military in body armor at the event. It serves as a visual reminder of what our fallen Heroes went through that day, and of what our first responders and current Heroes are willing to do for us now. If you choose to kit up, you'll have your own start point to give you a bit of a head start.

I'm military, police, public safety, or other first responder. Do I get a discount?

Thank you SO much for your service! You are the reason why we hold this event. We don't have a general discount because the majority of attendees are first responders of some type - and the proceeds are fed directly back into your community via the beneficiaries.

What's the refund policy?

No refund requests will be granted within 30 days of the event.

Have more questions? Please email us at events@100club.org

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Sep. 11th

The climb honors first responders who lost their lives at the World Trade Center on 9/11 and recognizes those who continue to protect us from foreign and domestic threats. There were 110 floors and 2,071 steps in each of the Twin Towers when the buildings collapsed on September 11, 2001.

Kicking off the event, opening ceremonies will stream at 6:00am MST. Virtual attendees can participate in the challenge by finding a convenient time and location (gym stair-stepper, running/walking, high school stadium steps, etc.) to complete 2,071 steps.

Participants are encouraged to share their experience and motivate others by posting on social media with #TowerChallenge2020.

The first 1,000 participants who register will receive a t-shirt, swag bag and completion coin. Registration costs $40 with packet pick-up or $48 with shipping.

For more information or to register, visit 911TowerChallengeFoundation.org.

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Sep. 12th

Join Catherine, an experienced attorney, to talk all things surrogacy. Intended Parents, Surrogates & anyone interested in the surrogacy process, we look forward to speaking with you at 1pm EST! Meeting link: https://zoom.us/j/98555206307

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Sep. 13th

Join Sharon, an experienced surrogate, to talk all things surrogacy. Intended Parents, Surrogates and anyone interested in the surrogacy process, we look forward to speaking with you! 10:30am PST. Meeting link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83554400620?

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Sep. 20th

Join Jenn for her virtual meetup to talk all things surrogacy. Intended Parents, Surrogates, and anyone interested in the surrogacy process, we look forward to speaking with you! 9am PT/10am MT/11am CT/12pm ET!
Meeting link: https://zoom.us/j/95193201666

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Oct. 6th - 7th

Save 25% off Champions of Magic Tickets with Promo Code: TRUST The offer is valid on select seats and while seats remain available. Discount is valid up to 2 days prior to the date of the show.
https://www.championsofmagic.co.uk/tour.html

Break away from the screen and experience live entertainment like never before with Champions Of Magic - an evening of impossible illusions and spectacular special effects. Described by the press as \'The Avengers of magic\' catch the only team of magicians in the world as they present their original, phenomenal ensemble illusions.

They\'ve sold out shows across the globe, been featured on every major US TV network and racked up over over 50 million views online... but you haven\'t seen magic until you\'ve seen it live! The Champions Of Magic cast present incredible interactive magic, a daring escape from Houdini\'s water torture cell, a mind-blowing prediction that has to be seen to be believed, levitation high above the stage and a finale beyond explanation. The show happens all around the theatre and features spectacular illusions that can\'t be seen anywhere else.

Don\'t miss this unbelievable show to entertain the entire family and see why fans return to see one of the world\'s biggest touring illusion shows time and time again. Tickets for Champions Of Magic are on sale now. Save 25% off Champions of Magic Tickets with Promo Code: TRUST https://www.championsofmagic.co.uk/tour.html

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Nov. 9th - 10th

Hank the Cowdog's exciting new addition is "Ranch Weather." It's impact on cowboys' lives is caused by different weather affecting every aspect of ranching. Cowboys help cattle survive blizzards, droughts and floods!

Legendary Author John Erickson returns with stories and songs to tell us about Hank the Cowdog's adventures.

*Onsite registration now open
Wednesday, March 9, 2022
Session 1: 10:30 - 11:30 A.M. CT
Session 2: 12:30 - 1:30 P.M. CT
Thursday, March 10, 2022
Session 3: 10:30 - 11:30 A.M. CT
Session 4: 12:30 - 1:30 P.M. CT

Location: Annenberg Presidential Conference Center (APCC) at Texas A&M University,1002 George Bush Drive West, College Station, TX 77843

Register for FREE onsite programs at: https://www.bush41.org/education/reservations.

Please stay informed by our website, bush41.org, about COVID-19 conditions affecting program policies.

Register at Connect2Texas.net to attend virtually or to receive a free recording afterwards.
1. Create an account.
2. Click on the Events tab and select George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, event "The Return of Legendary Author John Erickson and Hank the Cowdog"
Registration help: Contact Lori Hamm-Neckar at lhamm@esc11.net or 817-740-7156

*Pre-registered onsite participants will receive a free copy of "Hank the Cowdog: Ranch Weather."

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Dec. 3rd - 31st

His Name Shall Be 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, 13.1, 26.2

For our December Bible Race celebrating the birth of Christ. Isaiah 9:6 And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Complete anytime in December 2022!

For all of our 2022 Bible Race events, we will be donating 15% of each registration of our Bible Races to an incredible organization, Operation Underground Railroad, who has gathered the world's experts in extraction operations and in anti-child trafficking efforts to bring an end to child slavery. O.U.R.'s Ops Team consists of former CIA, past and current law enforcement, and highly skilled operatives that lead coordinated identification and extraction efforts. These operations are always in conjunction with law enforcement throughout the world. Once victims are rescued, a comprehensive process involving justice for the perpetrators and recovery and rehabilitation for the survivors begins. It is time for private citizens and organizations to rise up and help. It is our duty as a free and blessed people. This is our way of helping as many of God's children as we possibly can!


What: This is a 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, 13.1, 26.2 virtual run (or walk)! You choose which distance you want to complete!

When: Complete your race any time in December 2022!

* Medals and bibs will start shipping out November 15, 2022! After that they will ship out within 2 to 5 days of signing up.

Where: You choose the course and you time yourself (you'll report your finishing time to us).

Why: Because this is our way of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Cost: The price is $18 and that includes your medal, bib and at least 15% of every entry will be donated to Operation Underground Railroad. *We are in no way affiliated with this charity, we like to choose a different charity for each of our races and are happy to raise funds for them.

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