Also in Altiplano is one of Bolivia's capitals, La Paz. At 11,700 feet it is one of highest cities in world. This region is home to one of centers of Inca civilization and pre--Inca cultures.

Lake Titicaca is what helps make Altiplano livable. This body of water is large enough to temper coldness in its vicinity. Grains have been raised for centuries on surrounding arable land up to amazing elevation of 12,800 feet. The area supports a major group of subsistence farmers to this day.

Bolivia has had a troubled history. Aside from numerous internal struggles, country first lost its access to Pacific Ocean in a conflict with Chile. It then lost its northern territory of Acre to Brazil in a dispute involving rubber industry in Amazon Basin. On top of all that, Bolivia was forced to give up 55,000 square miles of southeastern Gran Chaco territory to Paraguay. Bolivia has reactivated its claim to restore Atacama corridor, ceded to Chile in 1884, to secure sovereign maritime access for Bolivian natural gas.

Holistic Junction is honored to exhibit Meridian Institute as featured school of week.

'...Insisting on a high standard of efficiency and ethics...' Meridian Institute offers following, diverse courses:

* Phlebotomy & CPR: 168 Hours. Program includes day and evening hours. Individual classes include: Phlebotomy; Arterial & Skin Puncture: ID, SC, IM Injections; EKG; CPR and First Aid; Anatomy & Physiology; Hygiene & Nutrition; and Externship. Successful graduates are certified upon completion, awarded a CPR Card from American Heart Assocation.

* Massage Therapy: 350 Hours. Program is instructed during daytime and evening hours. Individual classes include: Acupressure; Anatomy & Physiology; Beginning Movement Aromatherapy; Deep Tissue Therapy; Foot Reflexology; Herbology and Oils; Hydrotherapy; Hygiene & Nutrition; Sports Massage; and Shiatsu Massage Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded appropriate diploma.