Posting this here, rather than just emailing it to Ben, so that others can comment if they feel like it.

Went for a ride tonight around town; west from my place in Coronado to Encanto Park, then back east to Fifth Ave and then south to downtown. Did a couple circles of our little burg, thinking about possible locations for the sprints on the 4th.

1. South of downtown, either Jackson (my least favorite), Buchanan (a little better), or Lincoln (the best). Good thing about these streets is that they'd be largely deserted at this time, but occasionally cops hang out doen there. Also, the only bars adjacent to that area are Cooper's Town, Jackson's on 3rd, and (shudder) Coach and Willie's. However, Monroe's and Seamus McCaffrey's are both a short ride away.

2. South of Roosevelt on 1st, 2nd, or 3rd St. This area is a ghost town all the time, and the streets are pretty dang smooth. 3rd St especially is way short on stop signs just south of Roosevelt. We might want to post spotters at some of the cross streets, just to be safe. Other pros include the proximity of the Roosevelt and Carly's.

3. North of Roosevelt, Portland and/or Moreland streets, east of Central. Crackheads abound, but otherwise we'd be absolutely left alone. Condition of the streets is fair, and we could probably have an around-the-block criterium if we wanted. Also close to the Roosevelt and Carly's.

I know I only listed locations east of Central, but what can I say, I'm an East Side boy. Holla.