Abbey Funeral Chapel is a gay-friendly and supportive firm that services all families in their moments of need. They provide an incredibly important service because not all funeral homes and chapels are welcoming to everyone in our community. During some of the most trying times of your life, choose someone you trust to help you say goodbye to your loved ones.
Meet Gary Carolan, Abbey Funeral Chapel Director
Abbey Funeral Chapel Location
Gary has been fighting for equality for a long time. In fact, he became interested in funeral homes to provide for families who had lost someone to AIDS. It was a growing custom during the 80’s to not service HIV+ individuals or people with AIDS. This perverse policy negatively affected the families who had already lost someone they loved deeply, only to be insulted when trying to find a place for their loved one to rest.
Why This is Important to Me
I was crushed to hear recently the story of a close friend who had difficulty finding a funeral home because the deceased was transgender. The lack of caring and decency was appalling, but for this to occur in 2018, after all the progress we have made as a community, put me over-the-top.
What will it take for people to realize we are all the same? We are all sisters. Brothers. Lovers. Humans, who dream, and yearn, and cry all the same. The ties that unite us outnumber the differences that so bitterly divide us.
It is important to support amazing businesses like Abbey Funeral Chapel who treat everyone with the same level of empathy and comfort. It is important to support good people doing good things to help others. And, above all else, it is important to love each other fully and completely.
777 W. Cushing Street Tucson, Arizona 85745 520-239-2300 Ramada by Wyndham
Located less than 3 blocks from the Tucson Convention Center and within 3 miles of the U of Arizona and Pima Community College, the Ramada is one of our favorite gay-friendly hotels because of its amazing location! Located right along the light rail, stay here and get to wherever you are going without a car making this a great launching pad to go explore Tucson’s vibrant downtown.
This is the closest hotel to the Roadrunners Hockey Arena, you could even walk to the game! It’s also next to the Tucson Convention Center where Tucson’s Comic-Con is held!
When you’re ready to get some exercise or simply connect with nature there are biking and jogging paths right at the River Walk.
Enjoy resort-like ambiance on 8-acres with courts and lawns and be well-positioned to explore all the best things Tucson’s downtown has to offer.
From the brilliant, creative mind of Courtney Kelly comes this whimsical yet intimate portrayal of man’s furry friends. I have always been a HUGE animal lover.
Besides our baby, Keeley Bear, we regularly feed and care for neighborly cats, transient rabbits, and all matter of migrating birds. It was hard for me to express my love devotion for life’s most vulnerable and delicate creatures until I first laid eyes upon my favorite Courtney Kelly masterpiece, “Greyhound De La Muerte”. (pictured above)
Now, thanks to the wonders of the internet, you too can have your very own Courtney Kelly displayed prominently above your fireplace.
For a nominal price, CourtsArt (partnered with Etsy Art) will delivery a high-quality archival print of any one of her fantastic works, including “High Five Kitty” (pictured right) and many others. Visit http://www.etsy.com/shop/courtsart to view the entire catalog and let Courtney know how much you love her!
The FeelGood Fitness Tucson community supports one another in developing an overall sense of well-being while maximizing joy through fitness. We offer fun outdoor fitness classes designed for people of all ages and abilities. Our community prides itself in being an all-inclusive, authentic, energetic, safe, and caring community that is 100% body-positive and LGBTQA+ friendly. FeelGood Fitness HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes in public parks include a full-body workout that incorporates strength training, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. FeelGood Fitness Coach Antonio Rubio offers expert training, support, accountability, and inspiration to help his clients meet their personal goals. “I am committed to serving others and cultivating a judgment-free community of fitness friends.”
FeelGood Fitness Tucson Formation
FeelGood Fitness Tucson came to being at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Coach Tony was laid off from his job as a Personal Trainer & Group Fitness Instructor at a local gym that is now permanently closed called the Nerd Gym. Once Coach Antonio realized that the pandemic affected his community’s mental, physical, and social health, he leaped into action. He invested his life savings into FeelGood Fitness Tucson, and he created a safe outdoor fitness space where people can feel connected to the community and enhance their emotional, physical, and social well-being in a time that our community needed it the most.
Coach Antonio is super passionate about providing space for people that the fitness industry typically underserves. He also is passionate about cultivating community. “I am a Tucson native, and my community here in Tucson has always provided space for me in some of my lowest and darkest periods of life. It is comforting to know that we have the power to create a family through community. If it weren’t for my community, I would not be the person I am today. We all deserve to take up space, feel loved, appreciated, and valued. I try my very best to give that feeling to everyone that comes to my classes or utilizes any of my services.”
There is no other fitness space in Tucson like FeelGood Fitness. Coach Antonio is one of a kind and will inspire you to be the best version of you.
If you are interested in services, you may contact Coach Antonio himself via email feelgooodfitnesstucson@gmail.com or call (520) 358-1264.
Tell him Tony Ray at GayTucson sent you : )
Client Reviews
“Joining Feel Good Fitness was the best decision I could’ve made for me and my health this year. Since working with coach Antonio I’ve gained many positive habits, and met many awesome people along the way. It’s only week four of my 12 Week Program and my body is already transforming. Previous to starting I had a shoulder injury that required surgery, but after strength training I may not need it anymore and that is such an exciting thing for me! Every session is full of laughs, positivity and hard work, I look forward to my time spent with coach Antonio, he is the best and his dedication to all of us is beyond admirable.”
-Deij Jimenez
“There is so much I could say about this one man wonder. Antonio is a true light of positivity bringing happiness, wellness, and health to Tucson. He is extremely driven by his clients success, and is hyper-focused on YOUR goals. Antonio is able to cater to whatever physical needs you may have. He creates personalized workouts, that he shares with you after your personal session so you can go home and continue the progress you have started!! I have never met anyone like him, he is truly changing the Tucson fitness community one client at a time.
If you have gone from personal trainer to personal trainer, gym to gym, maybe not seeing results, not hearing the things you want to hear, please reach out because he is seriously unlike no other. I have personally been on my fitness journey for 4 years, and have never felt so motivated and cared for by someone who I am simply a client for. Much love for FeelGood Fitness Tucson.”
-Kayla Stegner
Antigone Books was founded in 1973 as a predominantly lesbian-owned feminist bookstore. This was at a time when there were more than fifty independent bookstores in Tucson. In the decades since the number of indie bookstores in the city has dwindled. Still Antigone Books has remained a pillar of the local book-loving community, expanding our mission to be a community bookstore with feminist roots. Although ownership has changed hands a couple of times since we originally opened in the 70s, we’ve remained women-run from the start. The current owners and long-time Antigone Books employees Kate, Melissa, and Morgan took over in 2018. They have expanded the store’s selection of books, gifts, and cards while remaining true to the store’s original focus on the recently-published boundary-pushing literature.
The Store
We keep a circulating stock of Pride supplies on hand throughout the year. From flags representing all identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum to dog- and cat-themed rainbow stickers. We also maintain a thriving queer literature section (see photos!), where we keep classic gay, trans, lesbian, and ace titles in stock. Readers can find everything on our shelves from LGBTQIA+ children’s books and YA fiction to queer graphic novels and LGBTQIA+ non-fiction. We also get regular issues of Sinister Wisdom and RFD as well as the latest lesbian romances from Bella and Bold Stroke Books. Whatever we don’t have in stock we’re happy to order for our customers at no extra charge! You can place orders in our store, over the phone, or online and we can get most titles in within a week.
Though our events program is on hold indefinitely due to COVID-19, pre-pandemic we were home to seven local book clubs and we featured regular book signings, author readings, and we had just begun to host Drag Queen Story Hours. We look forward to supporting our community with these and more exciting options in the near future; keep an eye on our website for updates! We also run a local authors consignment program for Tucson writers whose books are self-published or not available through major book distributors. We’re always looking for new voices, so definitely reach out if you’re interested after checking out the “Consignment” page on our website. In addition, we proudly carry local free periodicals of the Tucson queer community such as the 55+ LGBT newsletter Senior Forum and the Tucson Pride guide. Whether you’re new to town or a regular search for that perfect book, we’re excited to welcome you!
REVIEW:
“LOVE Antigone Books! This is generally my first stop if I’m looking for gifts or a physical book. Love their selection of adult coloring books, blank journals, cookbooks, and local authors. Their feminist and LGBTQ+ selection is also pretty impressive. And, they host a few book discussion groups. The staff is always friendly, and I like the sense of community.”
Sarah Baracks (she/they) is a Tucson queer Structural Energetic Therapist, herbalist, and educator who really wants to build a business that is mostly working with queer clients! That is where you come in…. Would you like to try out what they have to offer?
What is Structural Energetic Therapy?
SET is a style of bodywork that combines cranial/structural techniques, myofascial/soft tissue protocols, and energy healing to release both physical and emotional trauma from the body and restore alignment throughout the whole self.This style of bodywork is based on the idea that most everyone presents with a coredistortion that causes arotation of the pelvis and other imbalances in our structure. Accidents, illness, stress, emotional challenges, injuries, and other life activities cause the body to collapse further into this distortion resulting in pain and dysfunction. Structural Energetic Therapy uses aunique protocol that will balance your structure and allow for your body to heal its dysfunctions.
What can SET help with?
Brain Fog
Executive Function Difficulties
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Headaches/Migraines
TMJ
Concussions (old or new) PTSD
Fibromyalgia
Chronic Fatigue
Sports Injuries
Shoulder Injuries
Neck Pain
Hip Pain
Knee Pain
Back Pain
Whiplash
Scoliosis
Poor Posture
Muscle Spasms
…and more!! You can read more about SET and book an appointment on Sarah’s website: www.sarahbaracks.comUse the Promo Code LGBTQ20 to receive 20% off your first appointment.Cell: 520-369-7347
Review: Jenn H.
“Sarah was extremely intuitive, friendly, and careful with me during our session. An accident 20 years ago left me with some lasting nerve damage and I’m always keen to try different therapies. I plan on returning for multiple reasons and I’m glad I can support someone in the Qcommunity while doing so.”
Dr. McHenry grew up in southern Indiana and attended Indiana University-Bloomington, where he received a B.A. in Human Biology and a B.S. in Neuroscience. He then went to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (SCNM) in Tempe, AZ and graduated in 2015. Throughout his undergrad and medical education, Dr. McHenry took on active, leadership roles in various LGBT+ organizations, including being vice president of the Hoosier Rights Campaign (IU’s chapter of the HRC), board member of Illumenate (a gay, bi, and trans men’s public health organization), and he was the founding president of the LGBTI Health Initiative at SCNM. He was also a frequent public speaker for the GLB Speakers Bureau at IU, speaking about LGBT-specific issues and experiences to various classes and advocating for the fair and equal treatment of LGBT students on campus. As a physician, Dr. McHenry continues to advocate for an end to the treatment disparities faced by minority communities in our healthcare system. He shows a strong commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and compassionate environment for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and religious or spiritual affiliations. And as a holistic medical provider, he understands the impact our intersectional identities and experiences have on our physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Dr. David McHenry with his Puppy Jax
Naturopathic doctors are primary care physicians who specialize in holistic, natural modalities. Like MDs, they can write prescriptions, order labs and imaging, and diagnose and treat disease. Dr. McHenry’s practice is heavily focused on nutrition, lifestyle, psychological health, and preventative medicine. He also uses herbs, supplements, hormones, homeopathy, acupuncture, cupping, hydrotherapy, and spinal adjustments in the treatment of various acute and chronic diseases. He has particular interests in the areas of neurodegenerative disease, autoimmune disease, HIV/AIDS, and LGBTI health. Dr. McHenry strongly believes in an integrative approach to healthcare and often suggests patients also establish care with specialists (cardiologists, neurologists, rheumatologists, etc) when appropriate. Dr. McHenry provides individualized, patient-centered care to all of his patients. Because of this, he spends more time with his patients than most doctors. New patient visits may take up to 2 hours, and follow-ups are 30-45 minutes each. This allows him the time to assess all aspects of a patient’s physical and mental health to create a truly holistic, individualized treatment plan.
In his leisure time, David enjoys anything outdoors including camping, kayaking, and hiking around Arizona with his Great Dane, Jax. He is an experienced swimmer who swam competitively for 15 years in Indiana. He also enjoys reading, particularly on the topics of history, spirituality, and psychology.
Arte Bella on 4th Ave.
340 N. 4th Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85705
520-526-2588
www.artebellaon4th.com
Art, Entertainment, and Inclusivity at Arte Bella on 4th + Bella’s on 4th
Arte Bella on 4th began as an inclusive art space for Tucsonans. It has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind bar, restaurant, live music venue, painting studio, and 420-friendly haven. That’s right, Arte Bella on 4th is not your mother’s paint and sip! It’s the only venue in the country that rounds up live music, art-inspired cocktails, painting classes, drop-in-and-paint options in a 420-friendly atmosphere. Enter the Arte Bella on 4th door and walk through the art gallery back to the event space, or come in through the Bella’s on 4th restaurant after ordering a bite to eat. Arte Bella on 4th has somehow encapsulated all that is awesome about Tucson’s 4th Avenue and put it under one roof!
Offerings
Arte Bella on 4th aims to be a safe gathering place for all 21+ patrons. As allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community, Arte Bella on 4th is truly a “come as you are” establishment, and a “choose your own adventure” experience. Schedule a fun, guided art class or drop-in to freestyle a canvas or decorate a wine glass— whether your skill level is Van Gogh or color-by-numbers. Popular classes include Puff + Paint Date Night, Blacklight Puff + Paint, and Acrylic Pour. Those who don’t have time to paint can stop by for a puff on the patio or a drink from the bar and enjoy live music. Arte Bella on 4th hosts local musicians throughout the week and is always adding special events to their calendar. Bella’s on 4th will serve up an array of munchies, including delicious vegan options. Puff, paint, party time!
Customers keen to partake in legally purchased cannabis products can smoke on the patio
Customers keen to partake in legally purchased cannabis products can smoke on the patio while vaping and dabbing are allowed inside. Ordering a cocktail at Arte Bella on 4th is an art show in itself! Bella’s bartenders’ craft signature cocktails inspired by art pieces and artist bios. The result is delightful drinks that are sure to color you impressed. Try the spicy Frida Rita made with mango jalapeño tequila or the Starry Night vodka cocktail that *shimmers* with edible glitter! You’ll also find an extensive list of wine, craft beers, ciders, meads, and seltzers as well as non-alcoholic CBD seltzers and mocktails.
Arte Bellas Colorful Backstory
Artist, Air Force veteran, LGBTQ advocate, and cannabis activist Jen Christiansen opened the 4th Avenue location in April 2021. Jen saw an opportunity to fuse some of her favorite worlds together when Prop 207 passed. Further nudging her mission to go mainstream with her ‘Puff and Paint’ concept. Jen shakes her fist at the cannabis stigma. She opens her doors to all 21+ customers with the liberating reminder that “Moms smoke weed, too!”
Arte Bella on 4th Ave (21 + 420 friendly bar, live music venue, puff and paint art
studio) &
Bella’s on 4th Ave (new restaurant expected to open within a few weeks)
