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.
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!
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)
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)
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!
Go to Roma Imports and have some of the best Italian food in Tucson.
Roma Imports is an Italian food import store with a little restaurant in the back. Nothing fancy, but absolutely Italy-icious!
I like to eat lunch there and then take home some of the home made hot Italian sausage. They have one that is really hot.
They always have incredible antipasta’s, cheeses, desserts, pastas and just about anything Italian your heart may desire.
I don’t know the owner but I do like the people who work there. The reason I’m telling you about them is because I’m Italian and everyone should know good Italian food, gay or not.
Tell them Tony Ray sent you and have a great lunch.
Roma Imports
Roma Imports
627 S. Vine
Tucson, AZ 85719
520-792-3173
www.RomaImports.com
Roma Imports
The moment I walk into the building, I am at ease. The smells, the natural surroundings, and the pure intention of each practitioner in their healing art moves me. Grateful to see such a sanctuary thriving in what they do best. Samantha S.
Center 4 Self-Care welcomes you! All of you. The YOU you want to be. We are a queer owned, queer friendly wellness collective. All four owners found our way to Tucson from other parts of the country and felt drawn to opening a business here for the healing energy, welcoming community, and of course the mountain views. We have built a team of experienced, skilled, and informed practitioners providing heart centered services. We believe that self-care is a constantly evolving process as unique and individual as you are.
Our background and passion began with massage therapy and many styles of bodywork. Over the years we have expanded to include energy modalities, acupuncture, postural alignment, health and wellness coaching, all natural locally sourced skin care, yoga, meditation, education, and community wellness events. We are currently excited about partnering with local non-profit organizations to provide access to self-care services to those in recovery. Our hope is that this program will lead to successful outcomes including higher functioning, less dependence on our healthcare system, and improved mental health in our community. As advocates of mental health awareness and members of the Tucson LGBT Chamber of Commerce we enjoy working together to elevate humanity. We strive to connect each other with resources that are supportive in all things wellness. We are here for you and your best self!
Our bodies can hold so much trauma and massage therapy can facilitate healing in a gentle, effective, and affirming way. We believe in the inherent right of everyone to feel good in the skin that they’re in. We pride ourselves on creating a safe space and offering client-centered compassionate connection. Our commitment to being intentionally inclusive is at the core of our mission and vision. Visit our website for more details and to learn more about our offerings, events, and practitioners. We look forward to supporting you on your self-care journey.
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.
