Originally Posted by Big_e

+1 to that. The part of town I live in is considered by many to be a rough part of town. Just make sure to treat people like people. Look them in the eye as you ride by and tell them "good afternoon" or "good morning". They'll get used to you and you'll soon become part of the regulars as you ride through.
Along the lines of what Makeinu said, I make note of improvements needed on my ride. I have reported, and caused to have abated, potholes, graffiti, burned out streetlights and stray dogs. I live here and plan to stay here for a long time.
I'm a city employee so if I smash into a pothole or get chased by strays in the early morning dark, I'll come back to the location in my assigned city vehicle, call the violation in and get the problem resolved. Personal interest? Heck yeah! I consider my entire job in serving the citizens of Dallas as a personal interest.Ernest