Trias’ party takes place
at governor’s mansion
A local foundation rented out Hawaii's historic governor's mansion last night to host a going-away party for "American Idol" finalist Jasmine Trias.
The party at Washington Place is not unusual. The state rents out the mansion for several private parties each month, at a cost of $2,500, or $500 for nonprofit organizations, said Glenn Shigeta, special assistant to the governor who is in charge of the historic building.
About 400 guests were expected at last night's function, hosted by the Pacific Technology Foundation, which qualified for the nonprofit rate, Shigeta said.
Gov. Linda Lingle, who lives in a new governor's residence next door, was invited and scheduled to attend the party, said her spokesman, Russell Pang.
Trias made it to the top three in the popular "American Idol" singing contest last month. The Mililani 17-year-old graduated from Maryknoll High School on June 4.
On July 14, Trias and the nine other top 10 "American Idol" finalists kick off a 49-city concert tour in Salt Lake City.
The tour stops in Honolulu for three concerts at the Blaisdell Arena on Sept. 28-30.