Arcata, CA is located just about halfway between San Fran and Oregon. It's on the coast of the mighty Pacific and home to 6 of the most beautiful, clean rivers any nature enthusiast would die for. I've heard visitors say that it's the Berkeley of days gone past. On one level, I agree...we do encourage the arts in this community and welcome fresh organic produce on our dinner tables as much as we can. But on the other hand, what was once a small town that welcomed travelers usually on their way from Ore to SF or vice versa, has transformed into a town of e-commerce, commerce and cash-flow, expensive property and shops, which focus more on image than a lot of the "hippie" travelers that have recently been pushed from the main plaza in favor of "cleaning up the store-fronts." Of course,in fairness to the shop-owners, some of the "hippies" brought in an element of instigating trouble-makers, which further complicated matters. But the spirit of the area lingers in the question: Where have all the "true" peaceful hippies gone? Are they yuppies now?