Despite the whirlwind of snowstorms, the preparation for the annual Mr. NH pageant has not been bitten by the chill.

The current date is set for Feb. 28 at 7p.m. in the auditorium. The contestants include three juniors; Tyler Zeigler, and Ryan Fochler. There are also eight seniors competing; Kevin Snee, Ben West, Robby Beichler, Greg Daffron, Stone Carter, James Foster, Colin Koehler, and returning Mr. NH Calen Dowley.

“If he[Dowley] is one of the most prepared there’s definitely a possibility for Calen again, but that doesn’t mean he has an advantage over the other contestants,” said judge Carrie Rosales.

Along with Rosales, Mrs. Joanna Dallam and Mrs. Lori Rake will be judging the competition. The competition is based on the participant’s performance in the categories of formal wear, swim wear, spirit wear, Q&A, and a group danced choreographed by MacKenzie Lewandowski, Erika DiCocco, and Mollie Reinhardt.

“I look for basically for them[contestants] to stand out, for their confidence, and their ability to maintain the attention of the crowd. Also, their effort in their preparations,” said Rosales.

The competition will be raising money for the journalism program. Journalism advisor Jennifer Chandler hopes that they will be able to raise about 2,000 dollars to go towards buying new equipment, field trips, and the publication of the magazine and newspaper.

Chandler and Rosales both enjoy the opportunity to see a silly side of the contestants.

“I look forward to Mr. NH each year,” said Rosales.“You see a side of some of the guys you never see in class.”

“Some are seasoned veterans, but some are new to performing. It’s fun to see how they gain confidence as the rehearsals go on,” said Chandler.

While weather may affect the date of the competition, the real focus is going to be on who will walk out with the crown.