Thanksgiving
November 2025
Monthly Newsletter
🌟 Happy Thanksgiving from the Big Creek Group! 🦃
As we approach the end of November, the Big Creek Group family takes a moment to pause and reflect on the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. It is a cherished tradition in many of the communities we serve and a wonderful opportunity to focus on the spirit of gratitude that is essential to our daily lives and our success as a company.
The Enduring Importance of Thanksgiving
The American observance of Thanksgiving traces its roots back to the autumn of 1621, when the English colonists (Pilgrims) in Plymouth and the Wampanoag people shared a harvest feast. This historical event, while complex and often mythologized, has evolved into a powerful symbol in our society.

  • Original Meaning: It began as a celebratory feast and day of thanks for a bountiful harvest and, crucially, for survival after a difficult year.
  • Modern Significance: Today, it is an annual national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. The importance of Thanksgiving lies in its power to bring people together, transcending backgrounds and focusing on shared values: gratitude, family, community, and reflection on the year's blessings.

This spirit of appreciation is one we hold dear at Big Creek Group, where the hard work of our port services, agricultural solutions, and all our teams ensures the continued prosperity and development of our region.
Celebrate and Reconnect
At the Big Creek Group, we value the commitment and dedication of every single employee. Just as the original event celebrated a successful harvest, we celebrate the work you do every day that contributes to our achievements.

We strongly encourage you to take this upcoming holiday as a genuine opportunity to step away from work and fully immerse yourselves in the joy of the season.

  • Gather with Loved Ones: Whether it's a traditional feast with your family, a "Friendsgiving" with companions, or simply a day of rest, please take the time to connect with the people who matter most.
  • Reflect and Recharge: Use this time to reflect on your personal and professional blessings. Rest and recharge so you can return with renewed energy and focus.

We wish you and yours a joyful, peaceful, and abundant Thanksgiving!
🌮 Did you know?
November is National Diabetes Month.

Did you know that November is recognized as National Diabetes Month? This observance serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness, early detection, and management of diabetes — a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including many within our own communities and families.

Diabetes can often be managed through healthy lifestyle choices such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and routine medical check-ups. Taking small steps toward better health today can make a big difference in preventing complications tomorrow.

💙 How You Can Help Loved Ones with Diabetes
  1. Encourage Healthy Eating Habits Help plan and prepare balanced meals that are low in sugar and processed foods. Join them in choosing nutritious options, making it a team effort rather than a restriction.
  2. Be Active Together Exercise is vital for managing blood sugar levels. Invite them for a walk, light workout, or any fun activity that keeps both of you moving — consistency matters more than intensity.
  3. Learn About the Condition Take time to understand diabetes — its symptoms, treatments, and warning signs. Being informed helps you provide meaningful support and recognize emergencies like low or high blood sugar.
  4. Offer Emotional Support Living with a chronic condition can be stressful. Be a good listener, show patience, and remind them that they’re not alone. Encouragement and understanding go a long way.
  5. Help Them Stay on Track Remind them to monitor blood sugar levels, take medications as prescribed, and attend regular doctor visits. Sometimes, gentle reminders or shared accountability can make all the difference.
This month, let’s take the time to learn more about diabetes, support those who live with it, and encourage one another to make healthy choices every day. 💙
🌱Latest in Agriculture News: Sustainable and Deforestation-Free Agriculture

Belize Secures BZD 3 Million Grant for Sustainable, Deforestation-Free Farming In a major win for Belize’s agricultural future, our government has secured a BZD 3 million grant from the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE).
This funding will support the Sustainable and Inclusive Belize Program, in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank, to promote deforestation-free value chains and climate-friendly farming practices.
Key goals of the initiative include:
  • Mobilizing business plans and co-financing for farmer groups and small- to medium-sized enterprises.
  • Strengthening Belize’s ability to connect sustainable agricultural products to both national and international markets.
  • Aligning with national priorities outlined in Belize’s National Agriculture and Food Policy and the Plan Belize Medium-Term Development Strategy (MTDS).
The grant reflects Belize’s strong commitment to combining economic growth with environmental protection, helping to build a resilient agricultural sector that supports farmers, safeguards forests, and promotes food security.

Source:  
https://www.breakingbelizenews.com/2025/10/24/the-government-of-belize-secures-bzd3-million-grant-to-promote-sustainable-and-deforestation-free-agriculture/
📚 Latest in Local Food & Culture - Placencia Restaurant Week: A Culinary Celebration Just a Boat Ride Away
November 2-9
Did you know that Placencia Restaurant Week returns from November 2–9, 2025? This week-long event spotlights the amazing restaurant scene across the Placencia Peninsula — from beachside bistros to upscale dining — and features specially curated, three-course, prix-fixe menus.

The cost is an excellent value: BZD $25 for lunch and BZD $45 for dinner (excluding beverages and gratuity).

Placencia Restaurant Week isn’t just about good food — it’s a celebration of Belize’s culinary diversity. Chefs use locally sourced ingredients like fresh seafood, cacao, mangoes, and plantains to create signature dishes that reflect Creole, Maya, Garifuna, and Mestizo traditions.

Here’s the best part for us at Big Creek Group: Placencia is just a short boat ride away. Imagine: a relaxed evening crossing the water, arriving at the peninsula, and dining at some of the finest restaurants in Belize — all without a long land journey.

Whether you’re looking for a date night, a team dinner, or simply an excuse to explore, Restaurant Week is a perfect opportunity to discover new flavors, support local chefs, and enjoy an unforgettable coastal dining experience.

Check out PlacenciaRestaurantWeek.com for more details and to browse participating restaurants and menus.
🌻Positive Thought of the Month
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.”
— Melody Beattie
As we move through our busy routines, it’s easy to focus on what’s missing — the goals not yet achieved or the things we wish were different. But gratitude reminds us to pause and appreciate what is.

When we take a moment to be thankful — for our health, our families, our work, and the people around us — we begin to see life through a lens of abundance instead of scarcity. Gratitude transforms ordinary days into blessings and simple moments into joy.

This month, let’s make an effort to practice gratitude daily. A thankful heart not only brings peace but also opens the door to even greater happiness and fulfillment.🌟
🇧🇿 National Holiday - Garifuna Settlement Day🪇         
November 19
Every year on November 19th, Belize proudly celebrates Garifuna Settlement Day, honoring the arrival and enduring legacy of the Garifuna people in our country.

Across towns like Dangriga, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda, the celebration comes alive with energetic drumming, vibrant traditional dances, colorful parades, and dramatic reenactments of the Garifuna’s historic settlement journey to Belize’s shores.

This national holiday is more than just a celebration — it’s a heartfelt tribute to one of Belize’s most influential cultures. The Garifuna’s contributions to our nation’s music, language, and traditions continue to enrich Belize’s cultural identity.

Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Garifuna Settlement Day is a reminder of the strength, resilience, and spirit that define the people of Belize.

✨ We encourage everyone to take part in the festivities and join in celebrating our shared heritage.
Riddle me this ...
Previous Riddle: gum
I can never be stolen from you. I am owned by everyone. Some have more, some have less. What am I?
🤔

Answer revealed in upcoming issue.
💆‍♀️November's Wellness Tip: Get Some Alone Time
In the midst of our daily responsibilities—balancing work, family, and personal commitments—it can be easy to forget to take time for ourselves. Here at Big Creek Group, our work often requires focus, teamwork, and dedication, but it’s just as important to make time to pause, reflect, and recharge.

Spending time alone can be extremely beneficial for your mental and emotional well-being. It allows you to quiet the noise, gather your thoughts, and reconnect with what truly matters to you. Solitude provides the space to get to know yourself better, understand your goals, and reflect on what gives your life purpose—both personally and professionally.

You don’t need to travel far or set aside an entire day. It can be as simple as taking a quiet walk during lunch, enjoying your coffee without distractions, or spending a few moments at the start or end of your day in reflection. These small moments of peace can help clear your mind, improve focus, and renew your energy.
So this month, take a little time just for you. By giving yourself space to rest and recharge, you’ll return to your work, your loved ones, and your goals with more clarity, calm, and purpose.

✨ Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup—take time to refill yours.
The Port Hub⚓
Discussing all things Maritime 🚢
🌊 Shipping Faces a New World Order
Global shipping is entering uncharted waters, as geopolitical tensions and shifting economic alliances reshape how maritime trade operates. As highlighted in a recent Lloyd’s List opinion piece, the fallout from the breakdown of international consensus—especially around decarbonization—is forcing the industry to re-evaluate its strategies.
One of the biggest shocks came when the U.S., backed by major fossil-fuel states, successfully derailed a proposed global carbon framework at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
These tactics didn’t just stall environmental action—they created a chilling effect, deterring companies from pushing for more aggressive climate policies for fear of political backlash.
This isn’t just about environmental policy. The divide reflects a deeper shift: we’re no longer operating under a one-size-fits-all global trade model. Instead, national interests, security concerns, and power dynamics are driving trade decisions, and shipping companies are now being forced to pick sides.
For a port like Big Creek, these developments matter. As trade patterns fragment and alliances become politically conditioned, our ability to adapt—and to stay relevant—depends on strategic foresight. We must monitor how regulations evolve, how shipping lines reroute, and how environmental frameworks are renegotiated.
Despite the growing uncertainty, there’s a silver lining: shipping remains remarkably resilient. Even if trade volume isn’t growing as it used to, routes are being re-mapped, capital is being deployed selectively, and the industry is finding ways to operate within the new geopolitical landscape.

As we move forward, the Big Creek Group will continue to track these trends closely. Our goal is to position the port as a flexible, forward-looking hub—ready to serve in this new world order of maritime trade.
🦺November's Safety Tip: Prioritize Ergonomics
At Big Creek Group, safety isn’t just about wearing the right gear or following procedures—it’s also about how we move, lift, and position ourselves throughout the workday. Ergonomics plays a major role in keeping our bodies healthy and preventing injuries on and off the job.

Poor ergonomics—like improper lifting techniques, awkward postures, or repetitive motions—can lead to strains, back pain, and long-term discomfort. Whether you’re in the office, the warehouse, or the port, it’s important to make small adjustments that support good posture and reduce physical stress.

Take a moment to:
  • Adjust your workstation or chair to a comfortable height.
  • Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
  • Use your legs, not your back, when lifting heavy objects.
  • Take short breaks to stretch and rest your muscles.

Good ergonomics = a healthier, more productive you. When we take care of our bodies, we work smarter, stay safer, and reduce the risk of injuries that can affect our long-term health.

Let’s continue making safety a priority—one posture at a time. 💪
🍷Interesting Holidays Around the World: International Merlot Day               
November 7
Every year on November 7th, wine lovers around the globe raise a glass in celebration of International Merlot Day — a day dedicated to one of the world’s most beloved red wines. Known for its smooth texture, fruity aroma, and deep flavor, Merlot is often the go-to choice for those looking to unwind after a long day.

But beyond its rich taste, Merlot can also be seen as a symbol of balance and relaxation — two things we all need more of in our busy lives. After all, taking time to relax and enjoy a glass (in moderation, of course) can help reduce stress, boost mood, and even encourage meaningful social connections.

For the hardworking team here at Big Creek Group, this celebration serves as a reminder to pause, take a breath, and savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether you enjoy a quiet evening at home or a small gathering with friends, let this day inspire you to slow down and recharge.

So, this November 7th, take a moment to raise your glass — to good health, good company, and finding calm amidst the hustle. Cheers to balance, gratitude, and the little moments that make life richer! 🍇🍷
🌎Celebrating our Future - World Children's Day                 
November 20
Every year on November 20th, the world comes together to celebrate World Children’s Day — a day dedicated to promoting the welfare, rights, and happiness of children everywhere. It’s a reminder of the boundless potential that lives within every child, and of our shared responsibility to nurture, protect, and guide them toward a bright future.

Here at Big Creek Group, many of our employees proudly wear the title of parent alongside their professional roles. We understand the balance it takes — providing for our families while also being present to support and encourage our children’s growth. This special day serves as a moment to honor all the parents within our Big Creek family who work hard every day to create a better life for the next generation.

World Children’s Day encourages us to reflect on how we can make the world a kinder, safer, and more inclusive place for children — not just our own, but those in our communities as well. Whether through sharing time, teaching values, or simply offering encouragement, every small act of care helps shape a stronger future.

So, as we celebrate this day, let’s remember that today’s children are tomorrow’s leaders. Let’s continue to support, guide, and inspire them — both at home and in our wider Belizean community. 💙
🛍️ Time for Shopping is Near – Black Friday through Cyber Monday!                 
November 28 - December 1
As November rolls in, so does one of the most anticipated shopping seasons of the year — Black Friday through Cyber Monday! This exciting four-day period, running from November 28th to December 1st this year, is known for its incredible discounts, flash sales, and limited-time deals both in stores and online.

Every year, shoppers look forward to this time to snag great bargains on electronics, clothing, appliances, and even early holiday gifts. However, while the sales can be tempting, it’s also important to shop smart. Many vendors use clever marketing tactics — often raising prices in early November, only to slash them during Black Friday to create the illusion of huge discounts. That’s why it’s best to hold off on big purchases until the end of the month when the real savings begin!

Take this time to plan ahead: compare prices, make a wish list, and set a budget so you don’t get caught up in the excitement of impulse buying. Remember — not every “deal” is truly a deal.

At Big Creek Group, we know how rewarding it can feel to stretch your dollar wisely. Whether you’re hunting for a new gadget, refreshing your wardrobe, or shopping for loved ones, the key is to stay patient, alert, and strategic.

So get ready — the time to save is near! Plan smart, shop safely, and make the most of this shopping season without overspending.
Latest Posts
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STORY TIME - The Puzzle Pieces
In a bustling office, each employee was like a unique puzzle piece. They had different backgrounds, skills, and perspectives. At times, they faced challenges and clashed with one another, struggling to fit together.

One day, they realized that their collective strength lay in embracing their differences and working as a team. Each puzzle piece had a unique shape, but when they aligned and supported one another, they created a beautiful and cohesive picture.
Moral of the Story:

This story highlights the importance of diversity and collaboration in the workplace. It encourages employees to appreciate and leverage each other’s strengths, recognizing that the collective efforts of a diverse team can lead to remarkable achievements.
New Employees ✨
Welcome to Big Creek Group!
Robert Sanbakken
Yard Maintenance
Heavy Equip. & Maint.
Previous Issues
October
Indigenous People's Day
September
Celebrating Patriotism
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Contact us
3 Port Road, Big Creek
Independence Village
Stann Creek District
Belize C.A.
+501-523-2003
www.bigcreekgroup.com
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