Some of the statistics showing possible increased criminal activity are due to changes in definitions that now add previously "neglected" crimes like spitting and pushing. From my temporary perch in Shanghai, China, I can tell you that spitting and pushing are things some very safe cities might not want to include in their crime statistics. Maybe it's a good sign that Appleton feels a need to expand the scope of its statistical lasso. But I hope it's not because there's been a wave of pushing and spitting crimes. 

Appleton has some risks and some crime, but it's a wonderfully safe, peaceful, and pleasant community. Except when the Packers are losing--then things can get tense for a few hours. Sadly, at such times, Packers Traumatic Stress Disorder can escalate and lead to ugly incidents of, well, pushing and spitting. So I hear. At such times, stay off the streets and especially out of the bars, and keep the doors locked.