Wire Magazine Issue 5.2023 Imposing Cover Model Dr. Markus Ricci

ISSUE #05 | 05.25.23

DISPLAY UNTIL 06.28.23

PUBLISHER’S CORNER: LET'S CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH

OUR COMMUNITY: TWIST 30-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

HEALTH & WELLNESS: IMPROVE HEART HEALTH

ARTS NEWSIE: BEETLEJUICE THE MUSICAL

IMPOSING MODEL MARKUS RICCI

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

5. HEALTH & WELLNESS: FIVE STEPS TO SLEEP BETTER AND IMPROVE HEART HEALTH

Learn why there is more to maintaining a healthy heart than just eating right and exercising regularly.

8. PUBLISHER’S CORNER: LET’S CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH

We encourage everyone in our community to celebrate Pride Month in June.

10. COVER STORY: MODEL MARKUS RICCI

This month we showcase imposing cover model Dr. Markus Ricci with hot photos by Photo Studio Miami.

16. OUR COMMUNITY: TWIST 30-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

TWIST will celebrate thirty marvelous years of unforgettable nights in South Beach.

19. ARTS NEWSIE: BEETLEJUICE BROADWAY MUSICAL

Beetlejuice is a hilarious Broadway musical that transcends the afterlife.

Publisher/Editor in Chief/Design Director

Rafa Carvajal

Columnists

Alfredo Barrios

Alyn Darnay

Writers

Albert Bravo

Official Photography Studio

Photo Studio Miami

Staff Photographer J.R. Davis

Local Advertising advertising@wiremag.com

National Advertising Rep. Rivendell | 212.242.6863

Contact Information Tel: 305-520-WIRE

Email: info@wiremag.com

1541 Brickell Avenue, #2004, Miami, FL 33129

Wire Magazine is published, produced, and owned by Wire Media Group L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. Distributed in print in Miami, The Beaches, and Fort Lauderdale, and digitally worldwide through wiremag.com

The views, opinions or positions expressed by contributors to and interview subjects of Wire Magazine are theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of Wire Magazine, its staff or publisher.

Cover photo by Abel Cruz & Jorge Freire photostudiomiami.com

Model: Markus Ricci

FIVE STEPS TO SLEEP BETTER AND IMPROVE HEART HEALTH

Avoid Food and Beverage Close to Bedtime

To help reduce sleep disruptions caused by food, avoid late dinners and minimize fatty and spicy foods. Similarly, keep an eye on caffeine intake and avoid it later in the day.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity can have a noticeable impact on overall health and wellness but can also make it easier to sleep at night. However, exercising too close to bedtime may hinder your body’s ability to settle; aim to have your workout complete at least four hours before bed.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

There’s more to maintaining a healthy heart than just eating right and exercising regularly. While these practices play an important role in both cardiovascular and overall health and well-being, getting a good night’s sleep is also key.

However, more than 1 in 3 adults in the United States are not getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In addition to increasing risk for cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, heart attack and stroke, lack of sleep may also put people at risk of depression, cognitive decline, diabetes and obesity.

“We know that people who get adequate sleep manage other health factors better as well, such as weight, blood sugar and blood pressure,” said Donald M. Lloyd-Jones, M.D., Sc.M., FAHA, past volunteer president of the American Heart Association and chair of the department of preventive medicine, the Eileen M. Foell Professor of Heart Research and professor of preventive medicine, medicine and pediatrics at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “The American Heart Association added sleep to the list of factors that support optimal cardiovascular health. We call these Life’s Essential 8, and they include: eating a healthy diet, not smoking or vaping, being physically active and getting adequate sleep, along with controlling your blood pressure, and maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol and lipids, healthy blood sugar levels and a healthy weight.”

Education about healthy heart habits from the American Heart Association is nationally supported by Elevance Health Foundation. Some practices to improve sleep health and impact heart health include:

Getting a good night’s rest often requires getting into a routine. Start by setting an alarm to indicate it’s time to start winding down. Rather than heading straight to bed, create a to-do list for the following day and knock out a few small chores. Then consider implementing a calming activity like meditating, journaling or reading (not on a tablet or smartphone) before drifting off to sleep. Also set an alarm to wake each morning, even on weekends, and avoid hitting the snooze button.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Space

The ideal space for sleeping is dark, quiet and a comfortable temperature, typically around 65 F depending on the individual. Use room-darkening curtains or a sleep mask to block light and ear plugs, a fan or a white noise machine to help drown out distracting noises. Remember, using your bed only for sleep and sex can help establish a strong mental association between your bed and sleep.

Avoid Tech Before Bed

The bright light of televisions, computers and smartphones can mess with your Circadian rhythm and keep you alert when you should be winding down. Try logging off electronic devices at least one hour before bedtime and function to avoid waking up to your phone throughout the night. Better yet, charge

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including: Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

dofetilide

rifampin

any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you: Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection. Have any other health problems.

Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other.

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including: Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

#1 PRESCRIBED HIV TREATMENT*

No matter where life takes you,

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and at BIKTARVY.com.

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

LET’S CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH IN JUNE

I want to encourage everyone in our community to celebrate Pride Month in June. Despite the targeted attacks on our community by politicians like Ronald Dion DeSantis and others, our strength derives from our numbers and our willingness to fight back and to celebrate who we are. June is set aside as Pride Month to do just that. Pride Month serves as a platform for raising awareness about our community, advocating for equal rights, and recognizing the accomplishments and struggles of our never-ending fight for full equality under the law.

Pride Month also fosters visibility and representation for us. By celebrating Pride Month, we also acknowledge and honor the diverse experiences and contributions of our LGBTQ community throughout history. In addition, Pride Month plays a pivotal role in educating society and challenging discriminatory beliefs and behaviors. It encourages dialogue, understanding, empathy, tolerance and inclusion. Celebrating Pride Month is not just about our festivities and parades; it is about recognizing the importance of diversity, equality, and respect. It is a powerful reminder that love is love, and everyone deserves to be embraced and celebrated for who we are.

In this issue, Our Community previews the special party taking place on Wednesday, June 21 celebrating the 30-year Anniversary of TWIST in South Beach. How appropriate that this celebration takes place during Pride Month, since TWIST has served as a safe haven for our LGBTQ community for three decades providing a space for self-expression and freedom. R House Wynwood, a target of DeSantis’ anti-drag queen policies, is also planning to celebrate Pride Month with special programming and plenty of drag shows during June, so visit rhousewynwood.com for details and go dine and party at R House to support them.

I close this month’s Publisher’s Corner with a heavy heart and great sadness, by sharing with all our readers the news of the passing of Wire Magazine founder Andrew Delaplaine. I had the great pleasure of getting to know Andrew when I decided to make Wire Magazine a glossy publication and look back at the founding of Wire by Andrew through an interview that I published in November of 2012. On numerous occasions after that, Andrew and I had a chance to get together and share stories about Wire and his wisdom about life and publishing. Rest in peace dear Andrew. Thank you for all the wonderful memories and for the opportunity you have given me to carry on the legacy of Wire Magazine.

Sincerely,

BELIEVE THAT TELLING OUR STORIES, FIRST TO OURSELVES AND THEN TO ONE ANOTHER AND THE WORLD, IS A REVOLUTIONARY ACT.” - JANET MOCK

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Rafa Carvajal: Where are you from and where do you live?

Markus Ricci: I both live and am from Boston, Massachusetts.

RC: What do you do for a living?

MR: I am a physician – a medical doctor similar to the ones played in Grey's Anatomy. Haha.

RC: How do you maintain your fit physique?

MR: I train like a traditional bodybuilder: hit one major muscle group a week, high volume, and throw in abs and calves a couple times a week. Leaning out is all diet focused. I don't do too much cardio, as I find it pretty boring.

MARKUS RICCI

RC: What are your preferred three exercises? MR: Squats, lat low rows, and walking lunges.

RC: What do you eat to stay fit?

MR: I eat pretty freely, normally. If I want to get down to 8-9% body fat, I cut carbs and increase protein. I used to count macronutrients when I was younger, now I just go off ‘feel’ because I know my body so well at this point.

RC: What is the biggest dream you would like to achieve?

MR: Honestly, dying with little regret and living life to the fullest. Looking back on life and being able to smile about the people with whom I have shared time and the experiences we have created.

RC: What do you enjoy the most about modeling for photography?

MR: The body's expression and beauty of a well-maintained physique and the hard work it reflects. I also enjoy goofing around with photographers. Personality plays a huge role in a shoot, despite what many would think!

RC: What is your favorite hobby?

MR: I am not sure I have a favorite. I have become somewhat of a green thumb and like taking care of my plants. I also enjoy music. I played the flute for many years, and now I pick it up every now and then and play.

RC: What are your handles for Instagram, Facebook and Twitter?

MR: Instagram: jusbreal22, Facebook: Marqucio Ricardo, and Twitter: Markus Ricci.

TWIST CELEBRATES 30 MARVELOUS YEARS OF UNFORGETTABLE NIGHTS!

What sets TWIST apart from the many other bars and nightclubs South Beach has seen come and go is its unwavering commitment to always offering a boisterous and lively experience for everyone, delivered with inclusivity and acceptance. Over the past three decades, TWIST has served as a safe haven for the LGBTQ community and a symbol of freedom and liberation for all. TWIST has not only provided a space for self-expression, but has also supported our local community, championed equality, and fostered a sense of unity.

TWIST, Miami Beach’s iconic LGBTQ bar and nightclub, is set to celebrate a momentous 30-year anniversary milestone with a special party on Wednesday, June 21. Since its inception, TWIST has been a beacon of fun, entertainment, diversity, and acceptance that has captivated the hearts of locals and visitors from around the world. Its multi-level layout ensures that every corner holds something different. From the pulsating beats of the dance floors to the many distinct bars, TWIST offers a dynamic array of spaces for revelers to explore and enjoy. TWIST’s expertly poured cocktails and sexy bartenders also elevate its gay nightlife experience.

As TWIST commemorates three decades of unforgettable nights, its long history of success is a testament to the enduring popularity and the profound impact TWIST has made on Miami Beach’s nightlife, and on the lives of innumerable members of our LGTBQ community and their friends. Throughout the years, TWIST has remained at the forefront of Miami's gay social and party scene by consistently delivering exceptional, lively experiences that push boundaries and ignite the senses. From the electrifying music played in its different bars, to the dazzling drag performances, TWIST has delivered numerous magical nights and created countless cherished memories for its loyal patrons.

As TWIST enters its fourth decade, it will no doubt continue to push boundaries, redefine entertainment, and serve as an emblem of our gay community’s vibrant spirit. TWIST will also remain a testament to the power of inclusivity, acceptance, and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences that will undoubtedly carry on for many years to come.

I sat down with TWIST owner Joel Stedman to chat about what makes TWIST so special and what to expect for the June 21 30-Year Anniversary Celebration.

Rafa Carvajal: Tell our readers what you have planned for this year’s TWIST 30th Anniversary. Joel Stedman: We are all super excited to celebrate TWIST’s 30th Anniversary. Time really flies when you’re having fun! We’ll have complimentary cocktails 9-11 p.m. with passed hors d'oeuvres by Gourmet Station. DJ Sushiman will be on the decks, keeping everyone dancing all night. We’ll also have outrageous performances by TP Lords and Josefina La Globos.

RC: What does it mean for TWIST to celebrate this anniversary?

JS: This is a big one. Three decades. Wow! It just feels amazing knowing how much fun we’ve all had over the years. We started this thing thinking we’d go maybe five years like most. Really hard to believe. A truly big thank you goes out to all of our loyal customers and friends that have made this happen over the years. We couldn’t have done it without all of you.

RC: Describe TWIST in three words.

JS: Fun, sexy, consistent.

RC: What makes TWIST such a popular destination for both local and international guests?

JS: Our intent has always been locals first. Locals bring the tourists and are here year-round to support when the tourists thin out. Our bartenders are friendly and super sexy. We try to only have the very best DJ’s. Many of our bartenders also produce their own music video mixes. It’s a party that is fun and sexy at the same time. I think this works well wherever you’re traveling from.

RC: What are you personally looking forward to the most about this TWIST Anniversary Celebration?

JS: I’m looking forward to seeing some familiar faces that generally only come out on these special nights. It’s great to reminisce a bit. Love to see the big smiles and people having an amazing time. We are absolutely thrilled to keep this party going another 30 years! Cheers to all. Let’s celebrate!

ARTS

is based on Tim Burton’s cherished film. The story revolves around Lydia Deetz, a peculiar and unconventional teenager whose world is turned upside down when she encounters a recently deceased couple and a mischievous demon known for his love of stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that transports you to the Netherworld, this production is a true Broadway gem. This musical comedy will be at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts June 13-25. You can purchase tickets at BrowardCenter.org and by phone at 954-468-0222.

Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, with an original score by Tony Award nominee Eddie Perfect, and a book by Tony Award nominees Scott Brown and Anthony King, Beetlejuice showcases the immense talent of its creative team. The visionary set design by David Korins earned well-deserved recognition, winning both the Drama Desk Award and Outer Critics Circle Award. The musical also received eight Tony Award nominations, including Best New Musical.

Beetlejuice is a testament to the power of imagination and the magic of live theater. With its unforgettable characters, stunning visuals, and an otherworldly score, this production is a must-see for both fans of the film and newcomers alike. Prepare to be delighted, surprised, and thoroughly entertained as you join Lydia and the eccentric inhabitants of the Netherworld in this extraordinary musical journey.

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