Federal Benefits Made Simple - January 2025

An Unforgettable Tropical Paradise DISCOVER PANAMA

Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park This amazing national park, established in 1988, covers more than 50 square miles and over 130 islands of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, including the popular coral reefs of the Cayos Zapatillas. It’s a perfect spot to see monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and countless marine species. Panama Canal No list would be complete without mentioning one of the greatest engineering feats in human history: the Panama Canal. The canal, which runs for roughly 40 miles through the Isthmus of Panama, was completed in August 1914, just a month after the beginning of World War I. The canal works via a system of locks, filled and emptied of water to raise and lower vessels. Ships up to 950 feet long transport over 200 million tons of cargo annually through the canal. It’s a must see if you visit Panama!

The Central American country of Panama is home to the amazing Panama Canal, which allows easy passage of maritime traffic between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and is a hub for international trade. But it is also a scenic tropical paradise. The country is just 30,000 square miles in size, smaller than South Carolina, and is filled with incredible sites — plus the currency is the American dollar. Here are three locations you can look forward to on your vacation to Panama! Panama City Founded in 1519, Panama’s capital is a metropolis amidst lush tropical rainforests. Around 40 percent of the country’s population resides in the city, which is full of amazing historical and entertainment districts that attract tourists worldwide. The Casco Viejo historical district, comprised of Spanish colonial architecture, was named a World Heritage site in 1997.

Train Your Brain!

Citrus-Herb Pork Roast

INGREDIENTS

Inspired by TasteOfHome.com

• 1 boneless pork sirloin roast (3–4 pounds)

• 1 tbsp grapefruit juice • 1 tbsp steak sauce • 1 tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce • 1 tsp grated orange zest • 1 tsp salt • 3 tbsp cornstarch • Egg noodles, cooked

• 2 tsp dried oregano • 1/2 tsp ground ginger • 1 tsp pepper

• 2 medium onions, cut into thin wedges • 1 cup plus 3 tbsp orange juice, divided • 1 tbsp sugar

DIRECTIONS

1. Cut roast in half. In a small bowl, combine oregano, ginger, and pepper; rub over pork. In a large skillet coated with oil, brown roast on all sides. Transfer to a slow cooker; add onions. 2. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup orange juice, sugar, grapefruit juice, steak sauce, and soy sauce; pour over roast. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until meat is tender. Remove meat and onions to a platter. 3. Transfer cooking juices to a small saucepan. Add orange zest and salt. Bring to a boil. Combine cornstarch and remaining orange juice. Gradually stir into the pan for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve with pork and noodles.

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