About Kumu Hula Healani Youn: Healani was born and raised on the island of Kaua'i, Hawai'i. She graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Hawaiian studies, focusing on history and language. In 1985, she received the Merrie Monarch's prestigious "Miss Aloha Hula" title under the tutelage of renowned Kumu Hula Darrell Ihi'ihilauakea Lupenui. She performed as a hula soloist and toured with several award-winning Hawaiian musical groups and singers, such as The Peter Moon Band, The Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau including Iz Kamakawiwo'ole, I Kona with slack key master Ledward Ka'apana and the renowned musical duo, Hapa.

After the passing of her Kumu Hula, Darrell Ihi'ihilauakea Lupenui, Healani inherited his female hula halau, The Ladies of Ke 'Ala O Ka Laua'e. Her halau (hula schools) are located on the islands of Kaua'i, O'ahu and Japan.

For solo performance, halau class schedule or further information please email: healaniy@hawaiiantel.net

Healani composed and performs the opening Hawaiian blessing oli (chant) entitled "Blessing for Barack Obama", and performs "The Aloha Spirit" oli (chant) on the companion CD for A PRESIDENT FROM HAWAI'I (Hardcover, Banana Patch Press, $18.95). A PRESIDENT FROM HAWAI'I has been chosen to represent the state of Hawai'i at the National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. on September 26, 2009.

Healani will be giving several performances and readings in the Washington, D.C. area, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Please visit the Smithsonian website or Banana Patch Press for more information: