Pridelines Youth Services To Present “Masquerade Ball”

Pridelines Youth Services, South Florida’s oldest LGBTQ service agency, will host its 10th annual fundraising gala to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community -- Pridelines’ Masquerade Ball. Presented by Jim Tyrrell, Jay Richard DiBiaso and Roger Thomson, the Masquerade Ball will take place Saturday, August 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. Tickets are on sale now for $175 per guest or $1,750 for a table of 10. “Last year’s event was amazing! Guests still rave about how much fun they had,” said Victor Diaz-Herman, executive director of Pridelines. “This year’s Masquerade will feature our silent auction, cocktail reception and a formal dining experience along with dancing and a few special surprises that will keep our guests talking until next year.” This year’s event will feature live performances and will end with an after-party presented by OCULTO, a newly launched golden lager infused with blue agave - the same plant used to make tequila. It's 6% alcohol, stronger than a typical beer. Oculto, the name means "hidden" in Spanish, is about tempting you and your friends to have an unexpected and unforgettable night. Or in the world of the brand, "Oculto seduces us to make secrets." “Guests are encouraged to wear elaborately decorated masks in keeping with the Masquerade theme,” Diaz-Herman added. “Italian-based event partner Carta Alta is providing a 25% discount on their hand-crafted masks with the code: ‘masquerade2015’ at www.cartaalta.com.” Proceeds from Masquerade benefit Pridelines Youth Services, South Florida’s oldest service agency dedicated to the LGBTQ community and their straight allies. Pridelines’ mission is to support education and empower South Florida’s LGBTQ youth in safe and diverse environments, and to promote social change through dialogue. Pridelines provides nightly programs, Youth Enrichment Activities, HIV testing and support groups, meals and snacks, a David Bohnett Cybercenter, and the only drop-in center in Miami-Dade County for the LGBTQ community. Most importantly, Pridelines provides referral services for youth who are at-risk of or dealing with issues such as suicidal ideation, substance abuse, physical abuse, as well as emotional abuse at home, in school or on the streets. Pridelines is also dedicated to providing wrap-around services, safe spaces, and affirming environments for Homeless LGBTQ youth. Tickets are available at www.pridelinesmasquerade.com. Table host and sponsorship opportunities are also available on the website or by contacting Diaz-Herman at victor@pridelines.org or 305-571-9601 ext. 3.