This is Fort Dodge, The Most 'Dangerous' City in Iowa

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  • čas přidán 10. 10. 2022
  • Iowa thinks THIS is bad? Come on now.
    Fort Dodge, Iowa. Population 24,159. And going down yearly. All around us, there’s nothing around but corn and bean fields. We’ve seen that a lot at this point.
    Today was day 13 of my memorable midwest mission. If you recall, I began in Kansas City, went all through Nebraska, parts of Minnesota and South Dakota and now, we’re in Iowa.
    There has been hardly any drama up to this point. Most of what I’ve seen has been pleasant. And what I’d discover here would add a whole lot of perspective to this trip.
    Right now we’re in downtown Fort Dodge. There ain’t much here, especially at dusk. I can see why Iowans might not think this is a good place to be. Downtown is eerily quiet and empty and somewhat shuttered.
    A third of all residents have left the region since 1960. Yes, one out of three. It all got jumpstarted in the early 80s when large companies like Hormel and Iowa Beef closed shop here in Fort Dodge. Technology changed and there was no need for food production here anymore.
    So the place went downhill.
    Fort Dodge has been described by Iowans in not so endearing terms. Some call this Iowa’s Florida. Others call it Dirty Dodge.
    #iowa #moving
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Komentáře • 1,1K

  • @NickJohnson
    @NickJohnson  Před rokem +46

    Here's the entire Midwest road trip playlist: czcams.com/video/gk5CyYeJTYc/video.html

    • @fat_cat8108
      @fat_cat8108 Před rokem +4

      thats wrong link I think

    • @amyfletcher4749
      @amyfletcher4749 Před rokem +3

      Haa. You caught that too!!!!

    • @kevinlursen1465
      @kevinlursen1465 Před rokem

      Hey your getto in your life is maybe shingles but we work hard for what you called getto
      What
      but we work hard for those houses

    • @kevinlursen1465
      @kevinlursen1465 Před rokem

      Go to west Bt is the home of the GERATq

    • @kevinlursen1465
      @kevinlursen1465 Před rokem

      Sorry grandson grabbed my tablet. But anyway plz go to the town West Bend it is the home of the GERATOW A TOWN OF THE CRISTIAN HOME OF A PLACE WHERE A MAN THATMADEGOD THI CHIRTFROMSTONE SO HIS WIFE WOULD NOT DIE

  • @Ndw1995
    @Ndw1995 Před rokem +485

    Nick is on a mission to run every red light in the Midwest

    • @jordanseay216
      @jordanseay216 Před rokem +28

      Haha! I was going to say!

    • @TheCyborgTrucker
      @TheCyborgTrucker Před rokem +22

      So it wasn't my imagination.

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +62

      He is not and he already left the Midwest anyways

    • @jordanseay216
      @jordanseay216 Před rokem +11

      @@NickJohnson awe too bad! Hopefully you made a pit stop in Madison! It’s a great city though some areas can be rough.

    • @NewHaven203
      @NewHaven203 Před rokem +5

      Lol I never notice but now that everyone is mentioning it I’ll have to pay more attention

  • @jackpeterson2307
    @jackpeterson2307 Před rokem +191

    That was one of the most blatant red light runs I've ever seen lmao 4:42

    • @artbyty
      @artbyty Před rokem +34

      Wilma car get hit by a semi if I run this red light?

    • @bdh3949
      @bdh3949 Před rokem +3

      Saw that and thought about it. What may have happened is this: Nick has a very close-up view in the camera of the street and objects, meaning he has a long focal length, like close-up tunnel vision through the camera. Whereas he is driving and may be a few car lengths before the light which he saw turn yellow on the cross street light and kept moving but the camera looks as though it records him going through the red light.

    • @Kyle-zw6jy
      @Kyle-zw6jy Před rokem

      Lmaooooo

    • @philipbrooks02
      @philipbrooks02 Před rokem +1

      I'm so glad you noticed that too lmaoo. I saw that and immediately went to the comments to see if someone else saw that.

    • @CFox.7
      @CFox.7 Před rokem

      @@bdh3949 Huh ? No focal length explains running that red light. It was well red before he was anywhere near it - there is no lens distortion

  • @MasterMalrubius
    @MasterMalrubius Před rokem +204

    I was riding with a friend in Iowa. At every red light he just kept on going. I was freaking out. Then when he got to a green light he slammed on his brakes and stopped. I said, "What they hell did you stop at a green light?".
    His rely was, "Because Nick Johnson might be coming the other way!"

  • @coopsmusicvision
    @coopsmusicvision Před rokem +15

    i left Massachusetts 23 years ago and moved to Iowa. i love it here and will never leave . everything is cheaper .people are very nice. yeah there's not much to do, but I'll take a little boredom over high stress anytime. best state in the country in my opinion.

  • @whiskybooze
    @whiskybooze Před rokem +75

    I lived in Iowa for almost 20 years and never felt unsafe.

  • @larkatmic
    @larkatmic Před rokem +18

    Why is Iowa so safe? Demographics, Christianity and pride in country. Simple

    • @LucasTheTuber
      @LucasTheTuber Před 15 dny +2

      Nah it ain't "safe" I've seen a armed robbery in des Moines.

    • @BlueTickCH
      @BlueTickCH Před 5 dny

      No mormons?

  • @unklejungle
    @unklejungle Před rokem +12

    As a Brit with a son studying in IA (Waterloo) all I can say is we love it, its safe for our youngest and locals are great. Why people aren't flocking back to towns like Fort Dodge is beyond me. The choice of going to the west coast (Northern CA) to study or Iowa was a no brainer for him/us. I just need to work on my E5 immigrant Visa application!

    • @iowadarkride
      @iowadarkride Před 8 měsíci +2

      If you decide to come, welcome!

    • @kcck7588
      @kcck7588 Před 8 měsíci +2

      This is so refreshing to here.

  • @brianrajala7671
    @brianrajala7671 Před rokem +12

    Iowa is not out of touch.
    It is the people in places like Detroit, Chicago, LA, San Francisco, NYC, Washington DC, Portland, OR, Seattle, and Baltimore that are out of touch!

  • @danielschmaderer
    @danielschmaderer Před rokem +24

    Iowas form of dangerous is cute compared to other dangerous places. I’ll take Iowa over Chicago.

    • @Jjjaaahhnn
      @Jjjaaahhnn Před rokem +3

      Chicago isn't even that bad honestly. For what Chicago offers as a city with the prices of housing it's actually a great city. South Chicago is bad, but you wouldn't live there unless you're from there.

    • @danielschmaderer
      @danielschmaderer Před rokem +3

      @@Jjjaaahhnn and that’s what I’m getting at. It’s like Los Angeles. Not all of it is bad. Certain parts are and some is really nice. I’m going more on the actual bad parts.

    • @Jjjaaahhnn
      @Jjjaaahhnn Před rokem +3

      @@danielschmaderer Nah LA flat out sucks no matter where you are. That place is smog ridden, traffic ridden, crime ridden, overpriced, phonies, homeless, and litter and shit everywhere. Chicago is at least half decent lol

    • @danielschmaderer
      @danielschmaderer Před rokem

      @@Jjjaaahhnn smog? It was way worse in the 60s and 70s. I don’t think it’s even the worse in the country. I know it’s not the worst world wide for sure.
      Traffic? Yeah it can get bad, but that’s what alternative routes are for. There’s worse across the US for sure.
      Crime? Yeah there is crime, but it’s not the worst whatsoever.
      Overpriced? Can’t deny that at all.
      Phonies? That’s how Hollywood paints the picture. Not everyone is a phony. I’m one who isn’t.
      Homeless? Can’t argue that one.
      Litter? Not everywhere. I’ve seen way way worse. To be honest, that portion is grossly over exaggerated. LA can still be half decent in certain areas.

    • @Leanne-mw8nm
      @Leanne-mw8nm Před rokem +1

      @@JjjaaahhnnDon't I know that!!!

  • @SimonMartinForPrimeMinister

    The best thing ever to come out of Iowa is Slipknot!

  • @simnolia
    @simnolia Před rokem +6

    I grew up in Fort dodge. Moved to Denver, Colorado for 3 years. Returned to dodge, and first few years back there was a shooting across the street. Another time the swat team busted into my neighbors house and a house down the street. Kids threw a brick through another neighbors car window. A lot of this happens early morning hours 2-5am.

  • @traeevans5070
    @traeevans5070 Před rokem +13

    I was born and raised in fort dodge iowa and I think this is one of the best places to live. I'll continue to live here till I die

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +1

      Good

    • @SaydeeLashaeClay
      @SaydeeLashaeClay Před rokem

      @@NickJohnson FortDodge isn’t bad . Try Davenport Iowa , Waterloo Iowa and Cedar Rapids Iowa .

    • @leagarner3675
      @leagarner3675 Před rokem

      That says a lot. There are people around the country who feel trapped in a bad location.

    • @richardclark.
      @richardclark. Před 26 dny

      @@NickJohnson your attitude is horrible.

  • @scottgebow6539
    @scottgebow6539 Před rokem +25

    Fort Dodge is Martha’s Vineyard compared to most major cities in America as far as crime goes.

  • @jerilynn871
    @jerilynn871 Před rokem +17

    i usualy watch these late at night to relax, the other night i dozed off watching one these videos and dreaming i was driving around with you and you dropped me off in a cornfield and left me and i woke up 😂😂😂😂😂 i need to stop watching these at bedtime lol

    • @justdevine864
      @justdevine864 Před rokem +5

      Isn't it funny how we dream about what we're listening to.

    • @birdflipper
      @birdflipper Před rokem +3

      That was your sub conscious keeping you safe after seeing Nick run all of those stop signs.

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +8

      Wow Jeri did we eat Casey's together?????

  • @Samantha-eo3mc
    @Samantha-eo3mc Před rokem +13

    Iowa seems like such a nice place! I like what the chap you interviewed had to say. As a South African looking in from the outside, it’s great to get these perspectives on towns in the US.

    • @JimmyEatDirt
      @JimmyEatDirt Před rokem +6

      Iowa is best described as a little European country, most of the population is of German descent, and if you find a good job all of the housing is affordable, save a few places. We'd be glad to have you if you decide to join us.

  • @PinkPosy1
    @PinkPosy1 Před rokem +8

    Born and raised in Fort Dodge. That reputation is mostly legend. Iowan’s perspective on the condition of their town is based on what it used to be when they were young. It used to be better, but no it is not like living in a city. Those $400k homes would be over a million in Denver where I live. Denver has a huge homeless and crime problem.

  • @isabelg2056
    @isabelg2056 Před rokem +27

    I grew up in Fort Dodge. The neighborhood that was driven through that was referred to as "the worst neighborhood," I wouldn't even rank among the top 10 worst neighborhoods. In fact, it's one of the nice middle class areas. The neighborhoods that have given my hometown its reputation were completely missed and passed by. Deep in the neighborhoods by the prison and college, called "ABC land" are among the worst. Graffiti everywhere, run down homes, fights, drugs, gangs, violence, the works. It's very unfortunate. The neighborhood down by Corpus Christi Church and the Community Health Center is intense, as well. I witnessed an incident of mugging in that area when I was in elementary school. Also the street I grew up on had 3 houses burned down in my childhood. 2 to arson, and 1 to drug manufacturing (this is really tragic, especially considering that I lived on the better end of the middle class area, no where near the worst areas). Growing up, there have been so many days when I woke up to find out another close family friend or major community member had died because of another incident or wrong place wrong time mix up sort of situation. A beloved pastor was tragically murdered outside of a church just a few years ago.
    I graduated from the high school in town. I don't think a week passed by without a huge fist fight or huge crime related incident being relevant. We're talking drug dealing, gang violence, elementary school kids with drugs or contraband, etc. I'll never forget the days I walked into a classroom to find that the person who sat next to me the day before or the person who was assigned as my lab partner was now in jail because they shot or robbed somebody the day prior. I couldn't count the instances we were in the National news for the incidents around here, or the times the schools I attended, all the way down to my elementary school, were on lockdowns for violence in the surrounding neighborhoods, threats of violence to the school, someone bringing in a weapon, etc. Yes, even in elementary school. It has become a troubled town.
    For being a small town, the prevalence of crime is extremely high and unfortunate. Obviously, a town of less than 25K in proportion to cities with millions, like Chicago, doesn't compare. It is like comparing a small marble to a boulder. For Fort Dodge being the "small marble" in this example, it sure is rough. The prevalence of crime in Fort Dodge for a town that small is ridiculous and sad. With all respect, I get very tired of hearing the opinions of people who visited my hometown one time for only a couple hours give their reviews and make extreme statements and reviews without even knowing the other half and the true extent, without visiting the areas of complete tragedy and reading into the daily News of Record, or the reports from the worst incidents. It's not 100% fair to judge when you haven't walked through someone's shoes or even spoken to someone who spent their whole life there.
    I'm grateful to have grown up a Dodger. I'm grateful to have grown up in a better situation than most in the town, and I'm grateful to have grown up in a city that honestly could be worse. It's still a struggling community, especially considering the size. There are countless efforts to make things better and change things and so many fights for change exist, but there will always be a broken part of my hometown.

    • @jugaming3808
      @jugaming3808 Před rokem

      Nice to see an honest comment. I've been working in Fort Dodge for a couple of months now and there are doped up crackheads roaming around everywhere. Actually had an interaction with one today that quickly ended after he realized there were like 4 cops in the area.

    • @aesonmoritz2100
      @aesonmoritz2100 Před rokem +1

      Right, this guy really missed that part of Fort Dodge. I'm always hearing something on the radio or TV about Ft Dodge shooting or something.

    • @michelleboard3846
      @michelleboard3846 Před rokem +2

      Speaking of arson, remember the string of fires and the tragic burning of the oldest church in FD among the arsonists targets? I agree if he were to actually go to the "bad part" of town he'd agree.

    • @roam4eight
      @roam4eight Před rokem +1

      I had forgotten about the church fire! I agree he definitely did not go to the "bad" part of town though. I remember right after moving into my first apartment in college the roof was blown off the neighboring house. Found out fast that was a wonderful neighborhood (right off the corpus christi parking lot!)

    • @michaelshort7472
      @michaelshort7472 Před rokem +4

      I grew up near the old Pleasant Valley school near what was called "The Flats." Mr. Johnson apparently didn't get down there, and really, it's kind of hard to find unless you know where it is. It wasn't a really bad place to be, but as time went on into the 1980s and 90s, it got a lot worse. It didn't help when Hormel's pulled out of town and threw about 1500 people out of work. When I graduated from high school, there were 33,000 people in town, and we graduated a class of over 550 people. Now, barely 240 graduate each year. In the 1960s it was a great place to live, but now I'm afraid there's not a lot to hold folks there.

  • @goldiekhan7117
    @goldiekhan7117 Před rokem +10

    44 yrs In Iowa I did have to move to Philly for a little culture and excitement. Still have my acre and farm house in Iowa . Well it’s nice to have a paid off 35 k house to go to have family gatherings 😁

  • @conniewieck6158
    @conniewieck6158 Před rokem +9

    I've lived in Iowa my whole life and I'm 68 trs old and I wouldn't trade it for the world. The little town I live in is about 70 people around that, there is no empty houses, no stores what so ever, we do have a garage that fixes mostly farmer trucks for their corn hauling and bean, work on their semis and once in awhile a car or pickup. Nice quite little tow, mixture of young and old and we know everybody. I raised my kids here and now my oldest son is raising his kids here among other young people. There are young people that grew up here, got married lived 5 miles away, but ended up when they seen a house for sale, bought it, remodeled it and now raising his son here. My husband was born and raised here, I came from a town 25 miles away but wouldn't trade this town for anything.
    There are no police here so if we need them or an ambulance you have to wait till they come. I don't even think the town I'm from is even on the map at least it used to be then they took it off and don't think it's back on, cause it's out in the country which I love. I'm enjoying your little trip through parts of Iowa and we are very, very lucky here.

  • @Angela-po9oh
    @Angela-po9oh Před rokem +22

    Fort Dodge is a wonderful community that like other towns, has its issues. We have a wonderful community college, beautiful parks and plenty of historical sites to visit. To understand the level of community, you must be involved. The job options are not low, there are a ton of opportunities if one wants to work. We live simple, but comfortable. Crime is everywhere . I grew up in San Bernardino CA, so I would agree, its all about perspective. I would live no where else. Fort Dodge is home.

    • @rodchris8630
      @rodchris8630 Před rokem +2

      Amen, sister. Welcome to God’s country. All the best to you!

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +3

      I grew up in San Bernardino too Angela!

    • @kennyalvarado8230
      @kennyalvarado8230 Před rokem

      @@NickJohnson i grew up in chino

    • @AliciaM5555
      @AliciaM5555 Před rokem

      I'm from LA but live in Victorville. 😎😎

    • @terryhurts7172
      @terryhurts7172 Před rokem

      Fort dodge is wonderful if you are white trumper.

  • @dcrelictunes1967
    @dcrelictunes1967 Před rokem +4

    I was born in Fort Dodge in 1967 and lived there til 1986, when I joined the Air Force. The video is exaggerated, it's not dangerous and still a great town to live in. Hard working and good schools. It's only dangerous if someone goes out looking to get into trouble. My mom is 85, my brother owns a cabinet shop there still thats been in the family since 1952. Both live there and like it !

  • @jeremeyworrel6714
    @jeremeyworrel6714 Před rokem +8

    I grew up in the burned out house at the 3:53 mark. Was just back in the old stomping grounds to take a first hand look and it certainly choked me up a bit. The neighborhood was much different in the late 70s and 80s. Thanks for memories 318 S 18th.

    • @robnailer9832
      @robnailer9832 Před rokem +1

      OMG I remember you! I stayed with my grandmother across the alley from you on 4th Ave! Recently thought of u when I seen house caught on fire. The neighborhood has certainly gone downhill

    • @robnailer9832
      @robnailer9832 Před rokem +1

      Neighborhood has certainly gone down. Reiners. Duffer. Schmoker. Grady. Bock. Williamson… good ole days

  • @Alex_Gordon
    @Alex_Gordon Před rokem +2

    awesome! thanks for all these vids..they provide a never ending source of entertainment! all the best, from Sweden 👍👍

  • @nicklausmaran2502
    @nicklausmaran2502 Před rokem +6

    Plus I love what you do my sir ☺️

  • @birdflipper
    @birdflipper Před rokem +8

    Nice shirt, Nick! Single handedly increasing the town's per capita income by 100%

  • @nanz433
    @nanz433 Před rokem +6

    Im from California city of Norwalk i moved to iowa its gonna be 2 yrs now best decision ever!!

  • @iowaguy1984
    @iowaguy1984 Před rokem +67

    Thank you for saying Fort Dodge isn't that bad. Yes, our crime rate has gone up lately but that has been happening everywhere. Fort Dodge has been trying to change it's image and it is going to take some time. We do have some very beautiful parks in town and some great hiking trails. Retail is slowly making a comeback in town and the mall area is being completely redevolped. Thanks for visiting Fort Dodge!

    • @Vincent-ke5zn
      @Vincent-ke5zn Před rokem +11

      Iowa is sesame street compared to other states, I would much rather live in Fort Dodge than anywhere in California or New York

    • @ladydimples7883
      @ladydimples7883 Před rokem +3

      @@Vincent-ke5zn 👏🙌

    • @showmemojo4784
      @showmemojo4784 Před rokem +2

      If it wasn't for all the damn methicins it be absolutely marvelous

    • @Leanne-mw8nm
      @Leanne-mw8nm Před rokem +2

      @@showmemojo4784 Are you referring to people making methamphetamine?!!

    • @showmemojo4784
      @showmemojo4784 Před rokem +2

      @@Leanne-mw8nm yes I am it's got my small Midwest town ate up also seems like it's a theme across those places like ours

  • @kezzi1419
    @kezzi1419 Před rokem +16

    Grew up in south subs of Chicago, raised my kids in a small town in NW Indiana and moved near Des Moines IA 7 years ago. Feels like the south suburbs of Chicago 40 years ago. Love Iowa! Great diversity, community driven, considerably safer than Chicago suburbs and friendlier than small town Indiana.

  • @mickieb910
    @mickieb910 Před rokem +18

    Iowans Are not blissfully unaware we are very aware that’s why we choose to stay where we are or live in Iowa away from all the crazies

    • @stevefisher9595
      @stevefisher9595 Před rokem

      Totally agree 👍 well said

    • @geraldburmeister9637
      @geraldburmeister9637 Před rokem +1

      I whole heartedly agree. Just got back from visiting my daughter in Denver. For me less is more.

    • @mickieb910
      @mickieb910 Před rokem +1

      @@geraldburmeister9637 exactly I actually am literally sitting in Denver right now had to pick up my son’s vehicle and drive it back it’s a gorgeous day but way too many people

  • @beautifulvictory4eva185
    @beautifulvictory4eva185 Před rokem +2

    IOWA IS FOR ME! ♥️⭐ THANK YOU NICK!

  • @immaculateflyness
    @immaculateflyness Před rokem +11

    ran a red light at 4:40 smh.

    • @nicklausmaran2502
      @nicklausmaran2502 Před rokem +1

      Oh yeah he did lmao 🤣🤣. My dad once was driving me to school and he ran 5 red lights in a row!!!

  • @kaylapodelco5327
    @kaylapodelco5327 Před rokem +62

    I was born in Fort Dodge and almost all of my family still live there. There are a lot of good people there. I have lived across the country and Iowans definitely don’t really realize how things are other places.

    • @edwardalamo2507
      @edwardalamo2507 Před rokem

      A culture revolution where the white male is the eternal enemy, as black and brown take over, thats the wish of the Liberal Democrats.

    • @Vincent-ke5zn
      @Vincent-ke5zn Před rokem +8

      God bless iowans, everyone I met in Iowa were friendly and polite people 🙏. I would just like eastern Iowa, east of Iowa city

    • @JoeMama-tx5bq
      @JoeMama-tx5bq Před rokem +8

      Like another commenter said, it’s not that people are unaware, they are aware and that’s why they’re here.

    • @tyleral5280
      @tyleral5280 Před rokem +6

      I dont think that's the issue most people have with Iowa. It's that there isn't much to do and usually half the year its bitter cold outside. That combination seems to lead to alot of trouble for people. Iowa isn't like California where people are out on the streets doing whatever they want and making a life out of it because they would literally die once it starts hitting -40 degree windchills in iowa. The weather insures that iowa doesn't have those kind of problems literally on the streets but that doesn't mean it isn't there. It's just indoors in all those welfare house's and homeless shelters. There isn't many homeless people surviving the winter in iowa on the streets. That just comes down to the weather.
      Iowa has issues because of its lack of anything fun to do in most of the state. That leads to people drinking and doing drugs and going to partys or bars and getting messed up and making bad decisions. Iowa is also pretty heavily policed considering the population so people that make bad decisions usually get caught pretty quickly.

    • @ConsciusVeritasVids
      @ConsciusVeritasVids Před rokem +1

      @@tyleral5280 Iowa cops would rather bust someone for a bag of weed than investigate sexual assault cases.

  • @zero1fifty8
    @zero1fifty8 Před rokem +6

    Very informative and entertaining videos!!! Great job Nick!

  • @tacobannana6628
    @tacobannana6628 Před rokem +2

    I love nicks videos, been watching for years and its the best on youtube

  • @shannonconrad7844
    @shannonconrad7844 Před rokem +14

    please do a video on Waterloo, Iowa next!!

  • @TanksOwnall
    @TanksOwnall Před rokem +6

    So I've lived in fort dodge off and on most of my life, but as a trucker I've grown to appreciate a simpler small town. I can just bobtail into my driveway and enjoy time off!

  • @markobrion8293
    @markobrion8293 Před rokem +3

    I lived in moorland as a kid. My dad worked at Hormel until it closed. I enjoyed the video

  • @jackwolf6390
    @jackwolf6390 Před rokem +1

    I used to live in Moorland so thankyou so much for making this!

  • @chandanainbox5026
    @chandanainbox5026 Před rokem +1

    BEAUTIFUL CONVERSATION😊👌

  • @MakesMeNoDifference-sd9qg

    I was born in Ft Dodge and then at age 4, family moved to farm a little farther than an hour NW of Fort Dodge. However, Ft. Dodge in the 1960s was the place to shop - the mall was new and had all the correct stores - JC Pennys, Sears, etc. It is sad that the industry left but still a few good large manufacturers. It has been cleaned up in the last 15 years and its reputation is rebuilding slowly. One example is that the Girls State HS softball tourney is held in Ft. Dodge every spring.

    • @timhardyk1202
      @timhardyk1202 Před rokem +1

      My aunt worked at that J.C. Pennys! I'm from Lemars IA ( ice Cream Capital of the world!!) and my daughter played on those fields for state playoffs, she got play against Paige Lowery, Soldier Creek Winery is who produces our wines at Oscar Carl Vineyard and Winery in Sioux City that we run as a family, come and have a sip of wine!!

    • @skylermummert24
      @skylermummert24 Před rokem

      @@timhardyk1202 Cherokee Iowa native here just had some blue bunny ice cream in lemars this afternoon

    • @debi5292
      @debi5292 Před rokem

      The mall is an empty lot of large size. It was removed this year.

  • @stuartriley
    @stuartriley Před rokem +5

    Great video Nick

  • @cmiltimore470
    @cmiltimore470 Před rokem +12

    Wow, I was born in Fort Dodge, left there in 1954. I couldn't handle the winter weather. I'm shocked it's the worst town. Thanks for all your work, Nick.

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +7

      It's not the worst. It's probably the most dangerous

    • @PlayThroughTheGame
      @PlayThroughTheGame Před rokem +1

      my winters are -40 degrees in the province of Québec.

    • @nacl2858
      @nacl2858 Před rokem +1

      @@PlayThroughTheGame ok

    • @waterloo123100
      @waterloo123100 Před rokem +6

      @@NickJohnson Fort dodge is child’s play compared to waterloo. Cedar Rapids and davenport are the two most dangerous cities in Iowa.

    • @bigballsgaming42069
      @bigballsgaming42069 Před rokem +3

      @@waterloo123100 waterloo and ottumwa*

  • @randyrobinson9113
    @randyrobinson9113 Před rokem +7

    Awesome thing about Iowa is that every little town has a disc golf course. Take that California!

  • @scottcoleman2876
    @scottcoleman2876 Před rokem +61

    The world could use a dose of Iowa right now👍

    • @scottcoleman2876
      @scottcoleman2876 Před rokem +1

      No cop no stop 😉

    • @casiemarieharris1042
      @casiemarieharris1042 Před rokem

      Definitely not!!! People are much happier on the coast!!

    • @waterloo123100
      @waterloo123100 Před rokem +13

      @@casiemarieharris1042 More like crazier on the coast

    • @jacksonmorganfroghin4815
      @jacksonmorganfroghin4815 Před rokem +4

      Yeah, Iowans have the reputation of being the nicest people in America. Perhaps one could say Iowa is the Canada of the USA.
      Johnny Carson was born in Iowa. He's a good example of a nice guy if you've ever seen his Tonight Show (62 -92)
      I've never been there. But it sure sounds like a paradise without beaches. Personally, I like to be near the ocean. Not sure why! I never go in it.

    • @waterloo123100
      @waterloo123100 Před rokem

      @@jacksonmorganfroghin4815 That reputation is definitely not true. People out west are a lot nicer in my experience

  • @Doctor_Primo
    @Doctor_Primo Před rokem +27

    As someone who has lived in Iowa for 30 years I can say the crime here in Council Bluffs is getting worse because there has been an influx of people moving here from Chicago, Detroit, Milwaukee, KC, and other large Midwestern cities. As someone who has traveled abroad quite a bit, was actually just in Seattle for a week about a month ago and talk about a city where you gotta watch your back. Quite a bit of Iowans exaggerate the situation here. I'm honestly surprised Council Bluffs or Waterloo we're not higher on the list statistically than Fort Dodge. Big problems in Iowa from My experience is pills, meth, and assaults from being drunk and disorderly.

  • @larryhall897
    @larryhall897 Před rokem +5

    Really interesting video. I live about 10 miles north of Fort Dodge, I worked in Fort Dodge for years, and my children all went to school in Fort Dodge, and I agree with you... Fort Dodge is not bad. In fact, for most of the residents, it's a nice place to live and work.
    Thanks for your of observations.

    • @randalperson2581
      @randalperson2581 Před rokem +1

      Hi, cuz! Never thought that I would find you on here! Tell Kathy I said hi.

  • @hackfabrication139
    @hackfabrication139 Před rokem +2

    Been to Fort Dodge a number of times 1978-1980 when I was an owner/operator leased to Michigan Nebraska Trucking. Hauled lots of paper rolls from Michigan to the National Gypsum plant there. Then either beef out or deadheaded to get another load somewhere in Iowa, Nebraska, or South Dakota.

  • @tmusa2002
    @tmusa2002 Před rokem +11

    4:39 - Ran a stoplight!! We stop for red lights in Iowa, Nick! 😊 Be careful out there! 🚜

    • @Shannonbarnesdr1
      @Shannonbarnesdr1 Před rokem +1

      yeah i told him, next trip he better let Mappy drive, im not sure about runnin' all those red lights, nick gotta be careful we dont want no hassles from da laws .

  • @corrinetomlyanovich305
    @corrinetomlyanovich305 Před rokem +9

    There is a place in fort Dodge called the flats. You most visit. It's like a ghetto but different. It has the flair of the southern jue joint.

    • @jennywelp2927
      @jennywelp2927 Před rokem

      one young African-American man in another state wanted to spend a summer in Fort Dodge to get to know his father and grandfather. It was tragic that he was shot in a drive-by shooting, and became quadriplegic. Only lived for about 18 months after that.

  • @dark808bb8
    @dark808bb8 Před rokem +23

    I love that you are covering Iowa. I just moved from rural Michigan to a suburb on the outskirts of Des Moines. I drive past a corn field on my way to work but am also, like, 15 minutes away from anything I could want to buy. Just moved here yesterday, so far it's nice and quiet in my little corner of the city :) I've already started getting Iowa themed ads on CZcams for local politicians and HyVee (in Michigan we've got Meijer, not HyVee). Lol

    • @josephsmith590
      @josephsmith590 Před rokem +2

      Welcome lol I'm an hour away, keeps me away from the heavier traffic while still being able to go if I want!

    • @angelisasommars7981
      @angelisasommars7981 Před rokem +2

      Welcome to Iowa. I see it's been 2 wks. Hope 😁 that your move proved to be a good choice for you. And it hasn't been to hard to adjust.

    • @jennteal5265
      @jennteal5265 Před rokem +1

      Michigan native, Iowa transplant here! I really miss Meijers and always hit it up when I go back to visit...but I do love some Hy-Vee!

    • @skylermummert24
      @skylermummert24 Před rokem +1

      Fareway meat counter is way better than Hy-Vee

    • @lindajmorris9178
      @lindajmorris9178 Před rokem

      As far as Meijers in Michigan there is one in every city. Heck where's a Meijers anyway you turn.

  • @taraswanner6749
    @taraswanner6749 Před rokem +4

    Just moved to Iowa from Louisiana. The people here don't know how fortunate they are. They would be flabbergasted to see the state of parts of new orleans.

  • @robinhardersen6590
    @robinhardersen6590 Před rokem +3

    Thanks for the thumbs up to Sioux City. I have lived here all my life, and it is a good place to raise a family and live!!!!! We are the black sheep of Iowa, since there is nothing West of Des Moines, but I love it here!👍👍👍👍👍

  • @markpickering4873
    @markpickering4873 Před rokem +3

    Fort Dodge may be considered the most "dangerous" Iowa City according to current stats. But Burlington Iowa made the Tonight Show years ago when it was said it was the best place to go and get away with murder. The supporting fact was at the time out of 52 murders there was only 4 that was solved.

  • @tannerexuberant
    @tannerexuberant Před rokem +2

    Crazy to see this. Grew up there

  • @Quinn-eb6dn
    @Quinn-eb6dn Před rokem +6

    Watch every one of your videos, great insight into rural America.

  • @MamaBegail
    @MamaBegail Před rokem +19

    I am in fort dodge. All the way from the Philippines and i could say that Fort Dodge isn't a bad place to live. It is a great place to live to those family who are wanting to save and earn since the cost of living isn't that high. Also, i could say, fort dodge is still a safe place to stay :)

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +2

      Good!

    • @ftw1980
      @ftw1980 Před rokem +3

      There is nothing safe about dirty dodge

    • @MamaBegail
      @MamaBegail Před rokem +2

      @@ftw1980 learn to clean 😊lol

    • @Jak1776
      @Jak1776 Před rokem +1

      Bruh, youre telling the biggest lie to everyone. Ive lived in Iowa all my life. My girlfriend used to live in fort dodge in 2018 and i lived in waukee at the time. Every time i drove there to pick her up to spend the weekend together, i just felt a wave of darkness completely fall on me. Shes told me dozens of times that police wont even respond to any 911 calls that isnt something serious such as a shooting or a murder once it hits midnight and sometimes even 10pm. You clearly havent lived in fort dodge long enough to know its true colors. You know where that hospital is by thebig bridge that a couple houses are underneath it? Well one of those houses had a guy in it in 2018 that would shoot at people with a .22 caliber rifle who were walking the bridge minding their own business. Ive witnessed it first hand the kind of crap that goes on there. It is absolutely terrifying. Fort Dodge needs to be hit with a dozen missiles.

    • @MamaBegail
      @MamaBegail Před rokem

      @@Jak1776 bru! I haven't locked my door here ever since i moved here. And my neighbor are still living here for 85years. I dont think he would reach that age if it's really dangerous here. I even open my door everyday and leave it unlocked 😃 even slept at night without locking my door lol

  • @NpisVwjNeejYias
    @NpisVwjNeejYias Před rokem +5

    I live 15 minutes from Fort Dodge and I go there weekly and don't see it being that bad. I heard some coworkers called Fort Dodge the mini Minneapolis. I used to live in Minnesota for over 20 years and I really glad I've moved here.

  • @michaelmagaw6870
    @michaelmagaw6870 Před rokem

    52yr. in Iowa.. You don't know what you have until leave and come back.. Did the working in Texas @ 19 during the spring and summer. You appreciate the quiet and slowness the older you get. 👍👍👍👈✌

  • @cjseckinger8796
    @cjseckinger8796 Před 8 měsíci

    Your music intro is a clip from the theme to the TV show “Cimarron Strip”. Loved that show!! 🤠

  • @vilstef6988
    @vilstef6988 Před rokem +6

    Wouldn't be upset if Iowa stayed the same!
    Lots of Iowans seem dedicated to this.

  • @3rdworldgarage450
    @3rdworldgarage450 Před rokem +19

    If I lived somewhere like that I would never leave. There is nothing better in the rest of the world, especially not in the cities.

    • @edwardalamo2507
      @edwardalamo2507 Před rokem

      Open borders, thats what Biden and liberal democrats want, to conquer Christianity with Muslims, Hindus ,Buddhist, and atheist, that the New World Order edict

    • @bluetickch2166
      @bluetickch2166 Před rokem

      It will all slowly change.. sadly

    • @Leanne-mw8nm
      @Leanne-mw8nm Před rokem

      Why do you say that?!!

    • @peggypasson8794
      @peggypasson8794 Před rokem +5

      I live small town iowa when I travel to the big cities I'm always glad to get back to the small town life ...

    • @3rdworldgarage450
      @3rdworldgarage450 Před rokem +4

      @@Leanne-mw8nm simple. In most places, all you do is go to work and go home. In a city, transportation is much less convenient and requires buses and trains while in a place like that you can save time by driving a car or truck. You also get your own piece of land and a house and even the smallest house will be bigger than an apartment you can afford in a city. Buying a house also acts as rent control and your relative housing costs will reduce dramatically over time if you stay in the same place and never refinance it. In the suburbs and rural areas, you have space to have fun and build things while in a city there is little to do outside drinking. I would much rather explore the land in a Jeep than go to a trendy bar in a major city with a $30 cover and nothing to do but talk to fake people in uncomfortable clothes. Also, more people= more problems.

  • @reinderboterhoek3808
    @reinderboterhoek3808 Před 11 měsíci

    Thanks for letting me drive on South 25th street again. I'm Dutch and was an exchange student in '77. Lived on that street that year. Sure changed a bit. But still recognize the fine neighbourhood.

  • @honeybfly2010
    @honeybfly2010 Před rokem +10

    Dang Nick…you really didn’t like Mappy’s hat! Lol 😂

  • @Vincent-ke5zn
    @Vincent-ke5zn Před rokem +11

    I'm very honest and honorable and respect myself and others. My parents were strict. I believe that I would be welcomed in Iowa. I love the lifestyle of Iowa

    • @eddiebravo7866
      @eddiebravo7866 Před rokem +1

      You're more than welcome!

    • @josephsmith590
      @josephsmith590 Před rokem +2

      Definitely, most of the people I know will hold a person accountable for their dumb choices, but will try to honestly help those in need!!

  • @ghostnotes5667
    @ghostnotes5667 Před rokem +6

    I went to college in Fort Dodge. The town really isn’t that bad. Houses were super cheap and they have been trying to clean up the community.

  • @thatguyisbackagain
    @thatguyisbackagain Před rokem

    Great guest!

  • @cherylmailloux9647
    @cherylmailloux9647 Před rokem

    Trying not to laugh but you make it impossible sometimes!🤣

  • @mississippiensis
    @mississippiensis Před rokem +7

    I live in Dubuque and have never been to Fort Dodge, but it just seems like a typical Iowa town for its size.

    • @zacharyrogerssr9331
      @zacharyrogerssr9331 Před rokem +3

      It is definitely typical for nothing. Bar to church ratio on par with the rest of the state. 1 of each

    • @tmusa2002
      @tmusa2002 Před rokem +1

      I’m in northern Clinton County. I’m hoping Nick ends up in Sabula, Bellevue and Dubuque! 🙂

  • @NewHaven203
    @NewHaven203 Před rokem +4

    “Buckle up, put on your seatbelts it’s only going downhill”
    Nick: 😊

  • @kevinfitzgerald5407
    @kevinfitzgerald5407 Před 9 dny

    I have some fond memories of summers spent as an early teen !

  • @cwagner4704
    @cwagner4704 Před rokem +2

    I moved here from the east coast , when I first got here I thought I’d landed on the set of Pleasant ville.

  • @mbravo4738
    @mbravo4738 Před rokem +6

    I'd love for you to do Sacramento, CA. I just moved from there to a town an hour from Fort Dodge and We love it.

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +3

      I'll be in Sacramento in a week!

    • @mbravo4738
      @mbravo4738 Před rokem

      @@NickJohnson awsome! Don't be afraid to venture to South sac. Prices have shot up double in the past 7 years. Can't wait to watch it!

  • @kojakcountrylifestyle3580

    Sending love Nick to you and your family 👪 also everyone that watch your channel 😉 positive vibration from Kojak Country Lifestyle in jamaica.

  • @captaindrywall
    @captaindrywall Před rokem +6

    Nic, I lived in Sacramento Ca. for 61 years I moved to Cedar Rapids Ia 6 years ago, best move I could have made. I came here to be Iowan not a dirty low down Californian moving here to change things. Good people here. The weather is very good (six months out of the year, maybe 7) I like what you said here, sure beats all the other videos that only mention the corn. Very smart you can parle' this youtube channel into quit the referral agency. Fact is before I moved here I would have called you for advice.

    • @NickJohnson
      @NickJohnson  Před rokem +3

      Darn! Next time! And Cedar is the next stop!!

  • @BamBamBigelow..
    @BamBamBigelow.. Před rokem +2

    Running a red light at 4:40.....naughty boy, Nick

  • @jamesjava1782
    @jamesjava1782 Před rokem +3

    We need more Iowa in the rest of this Country. That is my take as a life long New Yorker. I love Mappy, he is the best. 🤔😀✌️🤗

  • @martinmax1589
    @martinmax1589 Před rokem +5

    I love Iowa! It's a good place to live, I know, I've lived in Iowa 50 years!

  • @missbeautykaykitchen2455

    Thanks for sharing

  • @cadenelliott9168
    @cadenelliott9168 Před rokem

    I think everyone in fort dodge has watched this video. It’s on all my friends Snapchat stories lol. I’ve grown up there my entire life and I’m currently away in the military and I miss it a lot. I don’t think I’d want to live anywhere else other than fort dodge. Plus I love your Dodger shirt

  • @mickieb910
    @mickieb910 Před rokem +10

    You can live in Iowa and not have to lock your door which is very nice you neighbors are there for you it’s community you can’t get that in the city I moved here from Denver I grew up in Denver and I’m going to tell you I will not give this up the winter suck here but the peace and low crime is worth it!!! And we have an awesome governor

    • @skylermummert24
      @skylermummert24 Před rokem

      I’ll take Denver and it’s legal weed over Iowa lol

    • @aesonmoritz2100
      @aesonmoritz2100 Před rokem +1

      Not all of Iowa. I live near Des Moines in Pleasant Hill and we get people all the time riding through our neighborhoods looking to find someone slipping. Keep your doors locked and your cars locked if they in the driveway. Times are changing.

    • @mickieb910
      @mickieb910 Před rokem +1

      @@aesonmoritz2100 I don’t live near Des Moines

    • @terryhurts7172
      @terryhurts7172 Před rokem

      Iowa is for whites and the whitewashed.

    • @mickieb910
      @mickieb910 Před rokem +2

      @@skylermummert24 Colorado is where I grew up it’s heartbreaking to see what it has become the weather is great other then that they ruined that state making it leagal I have nothing against marijuana God knows I smoked my fair share growing up but the way they have made it legal has ruined that state the people that has brought in the filth it’s a dirty town now which is heartbreaking to see a bunch of yuppies walking around with no clue what’s going on in the world you can have it I’ll take my rural life!!

  • @alanstrong55
    @alanstrong55 Před rokem +6

    The city has crumbled badly over the decades. The loss of the Hormel plant and Coates & Company hurt it a big heap.

  • @tinaristau3045
    @tinaristau3045 Před rokem +2

    In 1978 I lived in the flats of Fort Dodge and went to College there. Iowa Central Community college.

  • @charlaholmes7067
    @charlaholmes7067 Před rokem

    I lived in Fort Dodge for 5 years, south side was my side of town. worked at the caseys for those 5 years. still love the place ❤ great people.

  • @ricksdestinationcebu
    @ricksdestinationcebu Před rokem +5

    You need to hit Keokuk and Fort Madison and Burlington Iowa,, they got issues there,, i lived there for work for 9 months,, had challenges..

  • @jollyroger35
    @jollyroger35 Před rokem +5

    Great video! You guest was intelligent and gave a well-rounded perspective of living there.
    I came from a similar area, and having lived in bigger cities as well, could really relate.

  • @rosemaryyoung975
    @rosemaryyoung975 Před rokem +1

    Evening Nick 💜

  • @codyhilton1750
    @codyhilton1750 Před rokem +2

    As someone who was born and raised in Iowa, the Haweye State is a good place to live. I have lived in Minnesota for over 50 years due to a job transfer however, I always enjoy going back to visit in Iowa.

    • @skylermummert24
      @skylermummert24 Před rokem

      As an Iowan that moved to Minnesota I couldn’t wait to leave Minnesota and love South Dakota now

  • @Icantbelievethat420
    @Icantbelievethat420 Před rokem +4

    Fort Dodge might be the most dangerous but Waterloo is the most dirtiest

  • @margarettoellieniellieni5087

    Now I see why the gringos cross the Rio Grande in search of a better life in Mexico.
    I know gringos that live in guadalajara and that despite the high crime that mexico experiences, they still prefer to stay and live in mexico.

  • @mikepotter4109
    @mikepotter4109 Před rokem +1

    Great intro dude

  • @randylarsen9839
    @randylarsen9839 Před rokem +2

    I used to scoop the loop in dodge in my youth, have lived in Des Moines area since 93. Usually I just pass by on 169 so my first trip through downtown in years happened this past summer. The biggest thing I noticed is that the downtown has so much potential. Lot of cool old buildings that the big cities renovate and are draws for activities. Hopefully the community figures out how to capitalize on what they have at some point.

    • @Susieq26754
      @Susieq26754 Před rokem

      You mean shag the drag? Lol

    • @FDAngelady
      @FDAngelady Před 8 měsíci

      In our day, we shagged the drag, not scooped the loop. Lol.

  • @InterstateRaziTV
    @InterstateRaziTV Před rokem +3

    Fort Dodge is pretty bad but Council Bluffs, Iowa east of Omaha, Nebraska is even more bad and dangerous. Great Video Nick!

    • @MrStv1163
      @MrStv1163 Před rokem +3

      LOL - I seriously laughed out lout at “even “MORE dangerous”. I guess it’s all a matter of perspective. I live in Omaha and have driven through CB many times - and it’s kind of trashy in bits - but honestly, I have been through it dozens of times and just don’t think it’s that bad at all. It’s a modest, working class place with inexpensive and modest homes, and you don’t see true “blight” as you do in many rust-belt cities and towns. It also has some pretty nice areas. I don’t feel unsafe there at all. Of course, my hometown is a truly run down city in Illinois with a horrible crime rate and a very high murder rate per capita, burned out houses, empty lots, gangs, etc., so my definition of “bad” is clearly different from yours. When you’ve been in some REALLY run down areas like large parts of Flint, Detroit, Gary, E. St Louis, Danville (IL), Decatur (IL), Lima (OH), and many others, CB (or almost anywhere else in Iowa for that matter) isn’t anywhere close to “bad”. Then, go to cities in California where homelessness is epidemic and you have mentally ill, unpredictable people, often on drugs, and it can really be dangerous in parts. I’ve stopped in areas of Memphis near the airport to get gas and have seen convenience stores with thick glass barriers between clerks and the customer base, out of necessity for safety, and witnessed hostile people threatening store attendants. CB, well, it just really isn’t any of that.

  • @Icantbelievethat420
    @Icantbelievethat420 Před rokem +4

    The neighbor hood looks like waterloo

  • @conartistap8831
    @conartistap8831 Před rokem +2

    You going to southeast Iowa. Like burlington,ottoumwa, muscatine former thriving towns?

  • @ubebukothepugbros.446
    @ubebukothepugbros.446 Před rokem +8

    My grandparents lived in Ft Dodge. Never thought it was dangerous or ugly. Its downtown always seemed big for its size. Great high school football stadium surrounded by brick wall. Amazing how it’s gone downhill since the 70s because of the Hormel plant shut down. Sen. Steve King really destroyed NW Iowa.

    • @papasmurf8818
      @papasmurf8818 Před rokem

      I’m from Davenport and it’s bad down here 🎃

  • @JAWmankato
    @JAWmankato Před rokem +3

    Downtown fort dodge was awesome back in the day.

  • @Heritagejim5339
    @Heritagejim5339 Před rokem

    Lived in Iowa twice, some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet😎

  • @dubuque1
    @dubuque1 Před rokem +1

    Did you run the red light at 4:40 ?

  • @Tin_bAnger
    @Tin_bAnger Před rokem +8

    I worked on the new pork processing plant by Eagle Grove back in 2018-19. There was a murder like once a week. I was shocked to learn I passed one while exploring the town in my first week there.
    Also, Compared to Marshalltown when it comes to run down. Marshalltown is way uglier and run down.

    • @aesonmoritz2100
      @aesonmoritz2100 Před rokem +2

      Imma keep it real Marshalltown is little Mexico. Waterloo is Little South Side Chicago.

    • @Tin_bAnger
      @Tin_bAnger Před rokem +1

      @@aesonmoritz2100 you're no wrong.