HEY!
I think I would have the best answers for the neighbourhood since I'm your newest neighbour (I guess).
Corktown is not NEARLY as bad as it seems.
I used to work til like 2-3 am some nights, roller blade home and be completely safe.
The WORST that has happened to me in the recent past (I think this was back in Nov or Dec) was a drunk guy coming up to me wanting to be my best-friend! :p
ONLY SUGGESTION re.: crime: DO NOT allow your friends / family to park under Victoria School. I've seen a lot of theft / vandalism happen to cars under there.
Congrats and WELCOME, WZ1! Look forward to seeing you round the block (taking pics I'm assuming). hehe
SUGGESTION for Entertainment: Read The View magazing (
http://www.viewmag.com) for upcoming events; Corktown has some good shows sometimes.
CHECK OUT Modern India Buffet on Main / Walnut... best buffet downtown (IMO).
Ummm, Augusta Street (aka Hess Jr for the "older" crowd).
But most imoprtantly, just walk around and discover things -- best way to find stuff anywhere you live!