Tucson’s Rising Phoenix Self-Defense & Fitness is a unique, queer-friendly martial arts and self-defense gym open to all ages, skill levels, and fitness levels. Rising Phoenix has named this branch of their program The Rainbow Connection.
Our Approach
Founded in 2014, Rising Phoenix takes a different approach to self-defense training by using therapeutic martial arts instruction to promote healthy human connection, emotional control, and the importance of consent.
Each class focuses on street-smart self-defense skills and concepts designed to be immediately applicable to real-world situations. The self-defense we teach is based on Israeli Krav Maga, specifically intended to be practical, functional, and quick to learn.
In 2021, the Israeli Martial Arts Hall of Fame named Rising Phoenix the Best Krav Maga School in Tucson.
The Rainbow Connection
Rising Phoenix provides a welcoming environment for people in the LGBTQIA+ community to be themselves, gain confidence, and learn valuable skills. Rainbow Connection is our weekly donations-based self-defense class for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies.
Rainbow Connection was established as part of Rising Phoenix in 2016. The program was created by former gym member James Cook, who saw the need for self-defense training among his fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Our Rainbow Connection classes provide training specifically designed to address concerns in the queer community. We practice trauma-aware instruction, focused on helping students take ownership of their minds and bodies to challenge their comfort zones and discover what they’re capable of.
Rainbow Connection is a safe place. Its dedication is to helping participants effectively learn and use assertiveness and self-defense skills in uncomfortable, intimidating, and scary situations. Our instructors and students use their strengths to help, support, and encourage each other to succeed.
Our Classes
Tucson’s Rising Phoenix offers a variety of self-defense, martial arts, and fitness classes, ranging from Krav Maga, Yoga, and Group Fitness, to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Weapons Tactics, and more!
We have two donations-based classes that are open to the public: Our Rainbow Connection LGBTQIA+ self-defense classes every Saturday from noon – 1:00 p.m., and our women’s self-defense classes every Friday from 6:00 p.m. –7:30 p.m. and every Saturday from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
One-on-one private lessons, small-group private lessons, customized group workshops, and corporate training sessions are also available.
Our Owner
The founder and owner of Rising Phoenix, Jesse James Tucker, has been teaching self-defense and Krav Maga for over 15 years. He holds black belts in four different Krav Maga systems. He is also a certified Krav Maga instructor with the Federation of Israeli Martial Arts (FIMA).
Jesse has been inducted into both the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame and the Israeli Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He was named Defense Master Instructor of the Year in 2021 by the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
Reviews
Matt S.
“Stepping into a martial arts gym can be really scary, especially when you’re not a “Tough Guy,” but summoning my courage and walking through the doors at Rising Phoenix is the best thing I’ve done since relocating to Tucson three years ago. Jesse and his fellow instructors go out of their way to make people of every age, body type, culture, and orientation feel welcome and empowered with the best in modern martial arts training.
Rising Phoenix’s Krav Maga isn’t static: It’s constantly evolving and incorporating techniques from kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and catch wrestling, alongside the tried and true martial education in Israeli Krav Maga you’d expect. Rising Phoenix also offers more stuff than Krav Maga, too: specialized instruction in Judo, BJJ, and Muay Thai, weapons, and you can take as much as you want for one price. I look back at the years I’ve spent training here and see a totally changed me. I’m tougher physically and psychologically, and my day-to-day life is better for it. Thanks, Jesse!”
Kristina S.
“I can honestly say training at Rising Phoenix is one of the best decisions I have EVER made. Whether you are at a beginner or advanced level in Krav Maga, BJJ, etc, this place makes you feel right at home. I have never met any instructors who are as passionate about teaching self-defense. Jesse, Chance, and Alicia are three of the most amazing people I have met in Tucson. I can ask endless questions, pose endless scenarios, and someone is ALWAYS ready to help and answer my questions.
Instructors will stay after class with you for more than an hour to discuss your personal training plan, answer any questions you might have, or just to talk about your experiences and what brought you to Rising Phoenix. They care about your personal experience and want to help you get what kind of training you’re looking for.… I have learned so much from Rising Phoenix, and I cannot wait to continue my training. I have gone to other gyms in Tucson, but there is no place better to train than Rising Phoenix. The atmosphere and the instructors are unbeatable.”
Jeremiah Thomas
“The people here are amazing. The instructors are professional, helpful, willing to show techniques that meet your fitness level, and very supportive. The training here is awesome. From real-life situations to multiple scenarios per technique, the instructors here are on top of their game. The group fitness class is great. It will work you into fighting shape pretty effectively. If you come, just say hi to anyone, and you will find a friend at this gym. I have been coming here for a couple of years now. Every new person is immediately treated as someone you’ve known for a lifetime. It really does make this such an inviting place to learn how to defend yourself and others.”
Company Name: Tucson’s Rising Phoenix Fitness & Defense Office Address: 4500 E Speedway Blvd, Suite 4, Tucson, AZ 85712 Contact Name (s): Jesse James Tucker Phone (s): (520) 838-1592 Email: tucsonrisingphoenix@gmail.com Pricing: sliding scale Website:https://tucsonselfdefenseandfitness.com/ Office hours: (Please check our website for class times)
Massage the way you like it. You describe your needs and I will design a massage to assist with your needs. Your satisfaction is my largest concern. Call Bob in Tucson 760-578-4003. Rates start at $80 per hour. Enjoy Swedish, deep tissue, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage, sports massage or Therapeutic massage. Just want to relax, Lomi Lomi massage is a great way to relax, with long deep strokes up and down the body. Give me a call so I can help!
When we meet we go through where in your body you are in pain or stiff and I will build a massage designed around your needs. I have many different modalities to relieve your pain or stiff neck or back. And there is nothing to lose, on your first experience with me if you do not like the massage, you don’t pay! But that has never happened in my 20 plus years of massage, so give us a call Bob at 760-578-4003!
This group has an assortment of people who commit to engaging the imaginations of viewers, and while doing so, simultaneously, expanding the creative skills of pupils/performers. This is a safe and supportive environment for all of the participants involved.
Located in Northeast Tucson, the RoadRunner Theatre Company is a proud resident of the Alliance Performance Center Of Tucson (APCOT). Additionally, they have a traveling troupe that presents musicals and revue performances throughout the Tucson area.
They provide the community with engaging performing arts experiences through classes, showcases and performances in a comfortable environment.
View the Full RoadRunner Theatre Schedule at GayTucson
Get The Full RoadRunner Theatre Company Schedule!
Roadrunner is busy adding the entire RoadRunner Theatre Schedule of events to the GayTucson Events Calendar for you. We update regularly, so be sure to check back often, and you will always know about the newest shows!
Arizona Folklórico Dance Company LogoArizona Folklórico Dance Company LLC was established in December of 2022 under the direction of Maestro Bruno A. Loya III in Tucson, Arizona.
Arizona Folk (AZ Folk) seeks to preserve and promote the Hispanic performing arts throughout the greater Arizona community by presenting traditional & innovative Mexican folkloric dance works infused with techniques from a variety of dance disciplines including jazz, ballet, modern, ethnic dance, salsa, merengue, hip hop, and more.
Arizona Folklórico Dance Company provides dance and performance opportunities to students beginning at 4 years old. We invite you to become a part of the AZ Folk family by enrolling today!
Combat Krav Maga Tucson has been teaching reality-based self-defense to the Tucson community since 2015. It is owned by Jenna Herder who has been practicing Krav for over 18 years. She has her 3rd degree Black Belt from the United States Krav Maga Association.
Jenna strives to create an inclusive safe space community where everyone is accepted and cherished. Combat Krav Maga is a PROUD member of the Tucson LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Jenna is proud to be a part of the Tucson LGBT+ community and is excited to be hosting low cost/no cost self-defense classes and seminars for the LGBT+ community.
MoreDRAC founder Tierney
Desert Rat Art Collective is a local Tucson community of artists that specialize in the strange and beautiful, inspired by our lives in the desert. They see the charm of the dirt and mountains and know that no matter where life takes them, they’ll basically always be desert rats at heart. DRAC is queer-owned and operated, and was founded by artist Tierney after their group of friends got together every Friday for about 2 years to make art together. Those little gatherings still go on, and now they have a website to support art sales now that they’ve run out of wall space to show everything off.
Desert Rat Art Collective
DRAC specializes in selling original canvas art pieces online, but also offers prints, merchandise, and also accepts mural requests around town! Their art is usually cheeky, with wildly different styles between the current members. E/ze, the anonymous artist featured exclusively on their website, creates heavily textured pieces inspired by street art. You can feel the deep emotion in every piece. Ry Arvin is an expert in all things text and font. They’re wildly creative with mandalas, text, and also reimagines the margin-doodles of our teenage years. Tierney, the founder, and manager of Desert Rat Art Collective creates a wide variety of prints and patterns. Using the same techniques in their digital art as their physical canvas work, creating strong lines and measured shading.
Tucson and the Sonoran Desert will always hold a special place in Desert Rat’s little heart. Moreover, they want to honor and give back to the community. They’ve got big dreams of being able to provide free art supplies to underfunded schools throughout Tucson. Sharing the love of art to everyone they can. The website itself takes only 3% commission which is far less than physical gallery spaces. Any DRAC money leftover after the minimal website maintenance costs goes right back to supporting local Tucson small businesses and art ventures.
Company Name: Desert Rat Art Collective
Office Address: Online
Contact Name (s): Tierney
Website: Desertratac.com
Socials: @DesertRatArtC
Client Review
“The original piece by JackofAllArt is the highlight of our kitchen. The meticulous care given to every detail and the bold use of color make this an outstanding creation. We love it!” – Windy Lynn, owner of Sushi Flood by JackofAllArt
We are a full service grocery store on 4th Avenue focusing on local, organic, and wellness food and health products. We are member owned and open to all, guided by democratic decision making and actively working to practice as an inclusive, anti-racist organization and business.
Enhance your home’s style and comfort with custom Hunter Douglas blinds and draperies from The Window Covering Company.
The Window Covering Company
📞 Del DiLorenzo 📲 (520) 907-6742
If you’re looking for the perfect window treatments in Tucson, you need someone who truly cares about your home, your style, and your budget. That’s why I always recommend Del DiLorenzo and The Window Covering Company. I’ve known Del for years, and he consistently exceeds my clients’ expectations. Whether you’re updating one room or dressing every window in a new home, Del provides an unparalleled level of service that you simply won’t find at the big box stores.
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Let’s dive into what makes The Window Covering Company your go-to source for window treatments in Tucson.
A Personalized Touch – More Than Just Window Coverings
The Window Covering Company – Logo
When you choose The Window Covering Company you’re making an investment in your home’s comfort, beauty, and functionality. Unlike chain stores where you’re left to measure, choose, and install your window coverings yourself, Del handles it all.
Here’s how the process works:
In-Home Consultation: Del takes the time to understand your vision, décor, and specific needs. Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, privacy, or just a fresh new look, he’ll help you choose the perfect solution.
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With over 30 years of experience, The Window Covering Company has built a reputation for top-tier customer service and expert craftsmanship. No pushy sales tactics, no middlemen—just Del, taking care of you from start to finish.
Quality You Can See – Custom Hunter Douglas Window Treatments & More
The Window Covering Company – Blinds
One of the biggest reasons customers trust The Window Covering Company is the huge selection of high-quality window treatments. As a local Hunter Douglas dealer, Del offers some of the best window treatments available, known for their durability, elegance, and innovative designs.
Popular Options Include:
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Why Choose The Window Covering Company Over Big Box Stores?
The Window Covering Company – Shades
Many people assume that going to a national chain will save them money, but that’s not always the case. The Window Covering Company offers competitive pricing without sacrificing service or quality. Here’s why Del’s approach beats the big box stores every time:
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What happens if your blinds break or stop functioning properly? At a big box store, you’ll likely have to buy a replacement. With Del, he personally guarantees his work, meaning he’ll come back and repair or replace your blinds if needed—a level of service that’s almost unheard of today.
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When you work with Del, you’re not just getting great service—you’re also supporting a local business that truly cares about the Tucson community. Local businesses provide better customer service, contribute to the economy, and are invested in maintaining a great reputation.
Transform Your Space with The Window Covering Company
Whether you’re looking to update one room or your entire home, The Window Covering Company is Tucson’s best choice for stylish, high-quality window treatments. With a full selection of Hunter Douglas products, custom draperies, and expert installation, Del and his team ensure you’ll love the finished result.
Ready to get started? Give Del a call today!
📞 Del DiLorenzo 📲 (520) 907-6742
💡 Mention that you found him through GayTucson for personalized service!
Have you ever felt seen, valued, or important? Here at Creatively Queer Press, we want everyone to experience that feeling through the media they consume. We’ve seen in popular media that many people in the LGBTQ+ or BIPOC communities lack representation with accuracy or empathy if represented at all.
Our mission as a publishing company is to change that. We look to media for versions of ourselves and for visions of who we could be. If we don’t see ourselves represented then our dreams can feel limited, or at worst, discouraged. Diversity is something we believe should be visible and celebrated.
The Media
One of our first publications does that for the queer Latinx community: Cuentos. This bilingual Latinx mythology art anthology came to fruition by our Creatively Queer Press team. With the help of two dozen queer Latinx artists and writers. Every entry is a painting or illustration about a myth, legend, or creature from folklore. The artworks are accompanied by either fiction or non-fiction writing about the subject in both Spanish and English.
Through Cuentos our founder Luis Silva discovered our first editor for the CQP team: A. Dante Bravo. Originally a contributing artist and writer, Dante took on the task of editing the book layout and running the Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the print books of Cuentos. To help finish Cuentos, our second editor Joelle Blot was also invited to join us on the book’s publishing journey. Together our team of three queer creators works to share our books all across the town of Tucson, AZ, and far beyond. By collaborating with queer and POC creatives from all over the world, Creatively Queer Press strives to create and publish accessible entertainment for fans of all genres of comic books, art anthologies, gaming books, and so much more.
We are also working towards building an animation team to help us create groundbreaking animated films that serve our mission of inclusive representation. We invite everyone who values diversity to discover a new favorite on our website at www.creativelyqueerpress.com
