Richard "Ric" Weiland (1953-2006) wore this mask to attend a masquerade ball in Venice in 1997. The event was planned and hosted by Paul Allen who chartered a private plane for the revelers. Weiland was a software developer, programmer, philanthropist, and active member of the Northwest gay community. In 1975, Weiland became the first full-time employee hired by Bill Gates and Paul Allen at the newly founded Microsoft company. The three were high school classmates at Lakeside School and members of the Lakeside Programming Group. Weiland retired from Microsoft in 1988 and devoted his time to using his wealth to support the LGBTQ+ social justice movement, as well as environmental, health, and education causes. He also enjoyed creating costumes and dressing up for LGBTQ parties in Seattle. Guests were encouraged to make their own masks, and this one is similar to a template version which was sent out. However, the decorations here look professionally done. The rest of Weiland’s costume included tights, a short tunic he made himself out of sequin material, and a black cape.