December 2025

Happy Holidays

December 2025

Monthly Newsletter

🌟 Happy Holidays from Big Creek Group

As we enter the festive and joyful month of December, Big Creek Group extends warm holiday greetings to all our employees, their families, and our valued partners. This is a time of year when we are reminded of the importance of kindness, gratitude, and connection, as well as the joy found in spending meaningful time with the people closest to us.

The holiday season encourages us to take a pause from our busy routines and grant ourselves moments of rest and reflection. Whether it’s sharing laughter with friends, enjoying cherished traditions with family, or simply taking time for ourselves, these moments help restore our energy and strengthen the bonds that matter most.

We also wish to express our sincere appreciation to the staff of Big Creek Group for another year of hard work, commitment, and service to the company. Every accomplishment this year—every milestone reached, every challenge overcome—was made possible through your dedication and professionalism. The strength of our organization lies in the people who give their best each day, and for that, we are truly grateful.

As we celebrate this season of goodwill, may you find joy in the simpler moments, peace in the quiet ones, and inspiration in the year ahead.

Wishing you all a safe, restful, and happy holiday season—and a bright, successful New Year to come!

🌮 Did you know?

The Origins of Christmas Day

Christmas Day, celebrated every year on December 25th, is one of the most widely observed holidays in the world—but its origins stretch back much further than many people realize. While today it is known as a joyful celebration of family, giving, and togetherness, the history of Christmas is rooted in ancient traditions, cultural influences, and early Christian observances.

The date of December 25th was chosen in the 4th century, when early Christian leaders sought to honor the birth of Jesus Christ. Though the exact date of His birth was never recorded, the celebration was placed near the time of several ancient winter festivals, including the Roman festival of Saturnalia and the Winter Solstice, which symbolized hope, warmth, and the return of longer days. This allowed early Christmas traditions to blend with existing cultural practices, giving the holiday some of its joyful, festive spirit.

Over centuries, Christmas evolved into a global celebration filled with unique customs—from the lighting of candles and exchanging of gifts to feasting, gathering with loved ones, and spreading goodwill. Many traditions we enjoy today, such as decorated evergreen trees and festive music, developed gradually across different cultures.

So, as we celebrate this special season, it’s interesting to remember that Christmas is not only a day of joy and togetherness, but also a holiday shaped by centuries of history, tradition, and shared humanity.

🌱Latest in Agriculture News: Belize to Host New Regional Sugar Refinery

CARICOM has officially backed the development of a major new sugar refinery to be built in Belize — a project expected to begin operations by April 2026.

The refinery, to be established by Caribbean Sugar Refinery Limited (CSR) within the mill complex of Santander Sugar Limited, aims to produce high-quality, locally refined sugar. This initiative is part of a USD 20 million joint-venture investment with Sucro Limited, reflecting public-private collaboration to strengthen the region’s sugar industry.

📈 What This Means for Belize & Big Creek Group

With refined sugar production happening domestically, Belize is poised to become a central supplier for the entire CARICOM region — reducing reliance on costly imports and lowering logistical expenses.
The refinery is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, especially in sugar-producing areas such as Orange Walk and Corozal — a boost for our agricultural communities and local economy.
The project also promises to enhance food security regionally, as more refined sugar will be produced and supplied within CARICOM, improving stability and supply for consumers and industries alike.

For stakeholders and partners of Big Creek Group, this development represents a major step forward — not just for the sugar industry but for Belize’s broader agricultural and trade potential. We’ll continue to monitor progress closely and support initiatives that foster growth, jobs, and sustainability for our farmers and exporting community.

Source:

https://lovefm.com/belize-secures-caricom-backing-to-build-regional-sugar-refinery-in-2026/

📚 Events Happening This Month - End of the World Marathon & Half Marathon

December 7

Get ready for one of Belize’s most iconic sporting events! The 14th annual End of the World Marathon and Half Marathon returns to Placencia this December, inviting runners from near and far to challenge themselves in one of the most scenic locations in the world.

Participants can look forward to an unforgettable experience—running through a Caribbean paradise surrounded by stunning beaches. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this race offers something for everyone. And best of all—it’s all for a great cause!

As in previous years, 100% of the proceeds from the 2025 End of the World Marathon will be donated as scholarships for Belizean youth, supporting high school, university, and trade school students. Your participation directly fuels the future of young people in our community.

Not running this year? You can still make a difference! The event is always in need of volunteers to help before, during, and after the race. If you’re interested in volunteering, please reach out to Dan Edwards at dan@runbelize.org.

You may also support the cause by making a financial contribution of any amount. Every dollar goes directly to the scholarship fund benefiting youth in the Placencia area.

Come for the run, stay for the fun, and help support education in Belize!

🌻Positive Thought of the Month

“Every gift which is given, even though it be small, is in reality great, if it is given with affection.”

— Pindar

As we enter the festive season, this quote reminds us of something truly important: the value of a gift lies not in its price, but in the heart behind it. At Big Creek Group, we see every day how small gestures—sharing knowledge, offering support, helping a coworker through a busy moment—create meaningful impact. It’s the intention, care, and sincerity that make these actions special.

This same spirit applies to the gifts we share with our loved ones. The holidays often bring pressure to spend more, search for the “perfect” item, or compare ourselves to others. But the truth is, the most memorable gifts are the ones that come from thoughtfulness and affection. A handwritten note, a simple token, a shared experience, or even a few hours of your time can mean more than anything wrapped in fancy paper.

As you prepare for the season, give yourself permission to focus on meaning over cost. Let your gifts reflect love, gratitude, and connection—because those are the things people remember long after the season is over.

Let’s carry this mindset into our workplace and our homes, spreading kindness in every form, big or small.🌟

🇧🇿 National Holiday - Christmas Day & Boxing Day

December 25 & 26

As the year draws to a close, we come together to celebrate two meaningful holidays—Christmas Day on December 25th and Boxing Day on December 26th. Both days hold a special place in Belizean culture, offering moments of rest, reflection, and connection.

Christmas Day is traditionally a time for family, gratitude, and joy. Whether it’s sharing a delicious meal, attending a service, exchanging gifts, or simply enjoying each other’s company, this day invites us to slow down and appreciate the people who matter most.

Boxing Day follows as a continuation of the season’s warmth—a day often spent visiting relatives, relaxing after the Christmas rush, or enjoying community events and outdoor activities. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and extend the spirit of giving and togetherness.

As you enjoy these well-deserved holidays, we encourage all employees to do something truly special with your loved ones. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—what matters is the time, thought, and presence you share. Create a new tradition, plan a small outing, cook a meal together, or simply take a moment to reconnect in meaningful ways.

From all of us at Big Creek Group, we wish you a joyful, peaceful, and memorable holiday season. May these days be filled with love, laughter, and moments you’ll cherish well into the new year.

Riddle me this ...

Previous Riddle: knowledge

Food can help me survive, but water will kill me. What am I?

🤔

Answer revealed in upcoming issue.

💆‍♀️December's Wellness Tip: Try Something New

As we enter the final month of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and embrace opportunities for personal growth. One simple yet powerful way to boost your well-being is to try something new.

Consider joining a book club, signing up for a class, exploring a new hobby, or even trying out a fresh recipe in the kitchen. Committing to trying something new at least once a month can greatly enrich your life. Continuous learning keeps the mind active, supports emotional balance, and brings a refreshing sense of excitement and curiosity into your routine.

Whether it’s a small step or a bold adventure, opening yourself to new experiences can help you stay engaged, build confidence, and discover passions you never knew you had.

This December, challenge yourself to take that first step—your mind and your well-being will thank you.

The Port Hub⚓

Discussing all things Maritime🚢

🌊 Belize Reaffirms Global Maritime Leadership at 34th International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly

This past November, Belize reaffirmed its standing on the world maritime stage as delegates attended the 34th session of the IMO Assembly. The event underscored our nation’s commitment to safe, secure, and sustainable shipping practices.

During the proceedings, Belize — represented by its top maritime and port officials — emphasized collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility as vital to advancing the maritime sector. The priorities articulated included safeguarding life at sea, protecting marine ecosystems, and supporting credible pathways toward net-zero emissions for the industry globally.

For us at Big Creek Group, Belize’s active role underscores the importance of our own port operations and continued commitment to international standards. As maritime governance evolves worldwide, our port remains aligned with sustainable practices and regulatory excellence — positioning us as a responsible and strategic Deep Water Port for regional and global trade.

We congratulate our national maritime authorities for their leadership and dedication. We also extend our gratitude to our port employees and staff whose daily efforts help uphold Belize’s reputation and our own operational integrity.

Let’s stay committed to safety, sustainability, and excellence in everything we do at Big Creek — and continue supporting Belize’s important role in global maritime trade.

🦺December's Safety Tip: Maintain Good Posture - Move and Lift Safely

At Big Creek Group, safety isn’t just about the right equipment — it’s also about how we move, lift, and position ourselves. Maintaining proper posture plays a key role in preventing injuries and promoting long-term health, especially when lifting heavy objects or operating machinery.

Here are some posture and safety tips to keep in mind:

Align your spine, shoulders, and hips. When lifting or carrying, bend at the knees — not the waist — and keep your back straight. This helps distribute weight evenly and reduces unnecessary stress on your muscles and joints.
Engage your core. Tightening your abdominal muscles before lifting offers extra support for your back.
Use proper lifting techniques. Lift small loads close to your body. For heavier loads, use appropriate equipment or request assistance rather than risking strain.
Take regular breaks. If you’re doing repetitive tasks or standing for long periods, pause every now and then to stretch or change position — your body will thank you.
Be mindful while operating machinery or working at a desk. Whether you’re seated or standing, maintain a neutral posture. Keep screens, controls, and tools at comfortable heights to avoid slouching or awkward angles.

Good posture isn’t just about avoiding injury — it’s about working smarter and healthier. By staying mindful of how we move and carry ourselves on the job, we reduce strain and fatigue, increase comfort, and help make our workplace safer and more productive for everyone.

Let’s make posture a priority this December — for our health, safety, and well-being.

😇Interesting Holidays Around the World: Día de los Santos Inocentes

December 28

Did you miss April Fools' Day? Don’t worry—the Spanish-speaking world has a "Round 2" in December.

While most of the world is recovering from Christmas feasts and preparing for New Year's Eve, Spain and Latin America are busy plotting mischief. On December 28th, millions of people celebrate Día de los Santos Inocentes (Day of the Holy Innocents)—a day where the news is fake, salt replaces sugar, and nobody is safe from a good-natured prank.

A Serious Origin, A Joyful Evolution

The holiday’s roots are surprisingly solemn. It technically commemorates the biblical "Massacre of the Innocents," when King Herod ordered the execution of young children in Bethlehem to eliminate the baby Jesus.

Over centuries, however, the day evolved. Much like the medieval "Feast of Fools," the atmosphere shifted from mourning to a celebration of "innocence"—specifically, the innocence of someone gullible enough to fall for a prank. Today, the day is less about history and more about humor, communal joy, and pulling the leg of your favorite inocente (innocent one).

🌎Strange Holiday - National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day

December 16

Put down the respectable Christmas cookies and step away from the gingerbread house. We interrupt your regularly scheduled holiday programming for something unprecedented, something slightly unhinged, and something delicious.

December 16th is National Chocolate-Covered Anything Day.

We don't know who started this. We don't know why they started it. All we know is that for 24 hours, the laws of culinary decency are suspended. We went down to the breakroom with a vat of melted semi-sweet and a dream, and things got weird fast.

The mission was simple: If it wasn’t nailed down, it was getting dunked.

I raided the fruit bowl. Got bananas? Then cover it with chocolate. Pineapples? Cover it in chocolate. That suspiciously squishy apple at the bottom of the crisper drawer? Drown it in chocolate.

But the madness didn’t stop there. The power of the cocoa bean compelled us. We’re talking potato chips. Pretzels. Bacon strips (surprisingly good). A pickle spear (surprisingly awful). My left shoe? ...Okay, I stopped myself just in time, but for a second there, it looked dip-able.

Today is your free pass to be a cocoa-based mad scientist. Go forth! Find something weird! Melt some chocolate and ask questions later! Just maybe don't dip your keyboard; IT will get mad.

Looking Back, Moving Forward: Making December Count

As we turn the calendar to December, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the journey of the last eleven months.

Looking back to where we started in January, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown. We’ve navigated challenges, celebrated major milestones, and adapted to change. None of that would have been possible without the resilience, dedication, and hard work every single one of you brings to the table each day.

Thank you for everything you’ve poured into this year.

While it’s important to celebrate what we’ve already achieved, the chapter on this year isn’t quite finished. Let’s honor the hard work of the past eleven months by ensuring our final month is just as impactful.

This December, let’s commit to tying up loose ends, supporting our colleagues across the finish line, and ending the year with the same level of excellence we started it with.

Let's make these final weeks count.