Variables declared mid-function in test code

[thnkslprpt]

Checklist

• [x] I reviewed the Contributing Guide.
• [x] I performed a cursory search to see if the bug report is relevant, not redundant, nor in conflict with other tickets.

Describe the bug A few cases of variables declared mid-function in the test code.

Expected behavior All variables should be declared at the top of the function - eases future maintenance and improves consistency.

Reporter Info Avi Weiss @thnkslprpt