St. Paul banker heads community celebration

Northwestern Financial Review, Mar 15-Mar 31, 2004

John Bennett, senior vice president of St. Paul-Minn.-based University Bank, recently became lead character of that city's winter celebration. In late January, the 45-year-old Bennett was crowned the 68th King Boreas of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. Bennett's reign as King Boreas will last one year. This year's carnival Queen of the Snows, who will share Boreas' throne of ice, is Jennifer Sherry, a student at the University of Minnesota.

According to legend, King Boreas reigns over the Winter Carnival with his queen and their court until Vulcanus Rex, the fire god, and his crew send Boreas back to Mount Olympus, heralding the coming warmth of spring.

When seeking candidates for King Boreas, the St. Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation, the parent organization for the Winter Carnival, polled its members for names of men who demonstrate the spirit and legacy of the position, said Bob Viking, foundation representative. "John Bennett was unanimously suggested by every board member," Viking said.

Bennett is a St. Paul native who has been with University Bank for 14 years. he is married and has two children.

University Bank has initiated several creative programs that benefit economically-challenged Twin Cities' neighborhoods, Bennett said, adding that his position has allowed him to integrate his professional endeavors with social responsibility.

The ceremonial leader of the Winter Carnival is expected to make several hundred appearances in the coming year both locally and nationally - to spread cheer in schools, hospitals, nursing homes and homeless shelters. Besides time, Bennett will devote his own financial resources to bringing his costumed character to life. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that during his reign, King Boreas will spend from $50,000 to $100,000 of his own money on dress, travel, food and wine.