K-Factor’s 15th Edition Electrifies Auditorium Crowd

The Key Club’s K-Factor once again electrified the Huntington High School auditorium. The latest edition marked the 15th annual show, which draws its name from club alum Kaila Harlan, a member of Huntington’s Class of 2009.

Proceeds from that first show were dedicated to supporting Ms. Harlan during her battle with leukemia. A Key Club member throughout high school, she passed away that same August, but the show has continued in her honor.

The show now raises money for Rachel’s Dance for the Cure, a foundation created by Huntington High School English teacher Aimee Antorino. Her daughter, Rachel passed away in 2018 after a brave battle with AML leukemia. All proceeds go to the foundation, which helps children currently battling cancer at Stony Brook Hospital.

This year’s Key Club officers include Naomi Lyons (president), Avery Joynt (vice president), Emma Marsala (secretary), Nataly Posada (treasurer) and Eva Richter (public relations). Gina Colica and Kelly Kaiser serve as the faculty advisors.

“This year, we celebrated an extra special guest in Logan Coyle,” Ms. Lyons said. “This incredible 10 year old boy has been bravely battling liver cancer. We were honored to have him to celebrate his birthday with us.”

Over the past 15 years, K-Factor has helped to raise over $125,000 for cancer patients and the fight continues. Sponsors for the most recent show included D’Raimo’s Pizza, Rosa’s Pizza, Main Street Board Game Café, Escape Hair Lounge, Elsie Lane, Allysa Fox, Sapsuckers, Over Easy, Silvermine Group LA, Teresa Connolly, Towne Boutique, Dough & Co., Pancho Villa, Scentsational Crescent Golf Club, Target, First Class Bagel, Brew Salon & Spa, Bocu Hair Salon, Roots, The Shed, Gellerman Orthodontist, Cirellas, Ulta, Barbara’s Hair Salon, Woodbury Deli, Pirouette Dancewear. Thru the Looking Glass Salon, Main Street Nursery and Yokaham Sushi.

“I have to say that my favorite part of this show is the type of community that it fosters,” Ms. Lyons said. “It’s really amazing to see what a big difference we can make in people’s lives when we work together.”

Members of various academic honor societies staffed a concession stand with refreshments and snacks in the auditorium lobby during the show. Rachel’s Dance for the Cure merchandise and candy bouquets for performers will also be available. The show was covered by the Blue Devil Broadcast team.

“This night was bittersweet for me, knowing that it was my last K-Factor,” Ms. Lyons said. “I’ve played piano in this show all four years and I’m so proud of all of our performers