Most Influential Area Resident
Kirk Ferentz
Well, it’s not like the head coach of the University of Iowa football team is setting any major fashion trends or establishing government policy, but there’s no denying that a good season for the Hawkeyes is a great thing for the area economy. And Kirk Ferentz is probably the most recognizable Iowa City figure outside our fair city. Off-the-field troubles with players have plagued him at times, but a big win in last season’s Outback Bowl, an upset of Penn State and a good start to this year’s campaign have the fans packing Kinnick Stadium.
Runners-up: Sally Mason, Marc Moen
Last year’s winner: Sally Mason