| | Indigenous People's Resistance Day | | | | | | 🌿Indigenous People’s Resistance Day🌿 | | | | | While many around the world traditionally recognized October 12th as "Columbus Day," Belize – along with many other nations – observes Indigenous People’s Resistance Day. This special holiday, which falls on Sunday, October 12th but will be celebrated on Monday, October 13th, honors the rich history, resilience, and cultural contributions of Indigenous peoples.
For us at Big Creek Group, this day is an important reminder that our nation’s strength lies in its diversity. Belize is home to several vibrant Indigenous groups, including the Maya, Garifuna, and Mestizo communities. Their traditions, languages, music, and wisdom about the environment continue to shape Belize’s identity today. | | | | | Here are a few interesting things about the holiday:
- 🌎 Global Movement – The shift from “Columbus Day” to Indigenous People’s Day/Resistance Day is part of a worldwide recognition of the struggles and contributions of Indigenous communities.
- 🪶 Cultural Preservation – In Belize, the day is used to highlight traditional knowledge, storytelling, and the importance of preserving Indigenous languages and practices.
- 💪 Symbol of Resilience – The day represents not just history, but the ongoing resilience of communities who continue to thrive despite centuries of challenges.
| | | | | As employees of Big Creek Group, this observance encourages us to reflect on the values of respect, inclusion, and unity. Just as Indigenous communities have worked together to preserve their heritage, we too can embrace collaboration and diversity in our workplace.
Let’s use this holiday as a chance to learn something new about Belize’s Indigenous heritage, whether through food, music, or storytelling, and celebrate the communities that enrich our nation. | | | You don’t have to sneak out this October to enjoy some mouth-watering tacos — there’s actually a reason to celebrate! October 3rd is National Soft Taco Day.
This fun holiday honors the soft-shell taco, the original taco, with roots tracing back to Mexico’s tortillas, which have been around since pre-Columbian times when the Aztec and Mayan civilizations used them as a staple.
A taco is a traditional Mexican dish made from a small corn or wheat tortilla folded around a tasty filling such as beef, pork, chicken, seafood, beans, veggies, or cheese. Toppings like salsa, avocado, and sour cream make them even better. 🌯
Interestingly, the word taco originally came from 18th–19th century Mexican silver miners, who used the term to describe small paper-wrapped charges of gunpowder used in blasting — which resembled the folded shape of the food we love today.
Tacos first made their way into the United States in the early 1900s through Mexican immigrants, and by the mid-20th century, fast food giants like Taco Bell helped make them a global sensation. While hard-shell tacos became popular in the 1960s, the soft taco made its comeback in the 1980s and has been loved ever since. | | | | | And here in Belize, soft tacos are widely enjoyed across the country, with the famous Orange Walk tacos often called the juiciest and tastiest tacos you can find. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, tacos remain a beloved part of our food culture.
So go ahead — treat yourself to a soft taco on October 3rd and enjoy a taste of history (and Belizean flavor)! 🎉 | | | 🌱Latest in Agriculture News: Planning for the 2025–26 Onion Crop
On October 1, 2025, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprise convened an important stakeholder meeting at the Corozal IVET facility to discuss preparations for the upcoming 2025–26 onion crop, and to review lessons from the 2024–25 harvest. Key participants included staff from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), the Belize Marketing and Development Corporation (BMDC), the Police Department, Customs, the Supplies Control Unit, and farmers representing Corozal, Orange Walk, and Belize Districts. 🔍 Focus Areas & Challenges - Crop planning & coordination — The meeting emphasized aligning inputs, extension services, and logistics to support farmers in the new cultivation cycle.
- Addressing agricultural contraband — A major concern raised was the ongoing issue of contraband goods undermining local producers’ ability to compete.
- Feedback & local insights — Farmers shared on-the-ground experiences, including input availability, pest pressures, and market access challenges.
🌱 Why This Matters for Big Creek Group - If Big Creek Group is engaged in any agricultural value chains (e.g. supply, transport, processing, export), changes in onion production will affect local input demand, logistics capacity, and pricing.
- Strengthened partnerships with agricultural agencies may open opportunities for collaboration in extension support, quality control, or contract farming.
- Monitoring contraband and regulatory enforcement initiatives can help ensure fair market conditions and reduce external risks to legitimate producers.
🔭 What to Watch - The Ministry is expected to publish guidelines and timelines for planting, input distribution, and monitoring protocols over the coming months.
- Any incentives (subsidies, grants, or support programs) meant to bolster onion producers could ripple into related sectors of Big Creek’s operations.
Let’s stay tuned — this is a critical period for Belize’s onion sector, and the decisions now will influence productivity, pricing, and export potential in the upcoming cycle.
| | | | | 📚 World Teacher’s Day October 5 Each year on October 5th, the world comes together to celebrate World Teacher’s Day, a day dedicated to honoring educators and the invaluable role they play in shaping society.
Here in Belize, teachers are at the heart of community development. They not only pass on knowledge in classrooms but also serve as mentors, motivators, and guides who inspire the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals. Their work lays the foundation for a stronger, more resilient Belize, and their influence reaches far beyond school walls.
At Big Creek Group, we recognize and deeply appreciate the contributions of teachers across our nation. Many of us owe our own professional paths to the dedication of teachers who encouraged us to learn, grow, and pursue opportunities. Their commitment, patience, and passion continue to uplift families and communities throughout Belize.
On this World Teacher’s Day, we say thank you to all teachers for their tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to education and nation-building. You truly make a difference, every single day. | | | | | Positive Thought of the Month | | | | | | “A man who asks is a fool for five minutes. A man who never asks is a fool for life.” — Chinese Proverb
This proverb reminds us of the power of curiosity and the courage it takes to ask questions. Sometimes, we hesitate to ask because we fear looking unprepared or unsure. But in reality, asking questions is how we learn, grow, and avoid mistakes.
At Big Creek Group, we value a culture of learning and collaboration. No one has all the answers, and progress comes when we are open to sharing knowledge and seeking guidance from one another. Asking questions may feel uncomfortable in the moment, but staying silent limits growth — both personally and professionally.
So, let’s embrace curiosity, ask more questions, and see every answer as a step forward. Remember: it’s better to ask once and learn than to remain in doubt for a lifetime.🌟 | | | 💀 Remembering Loved Ones: Los Días de los Muertos October 27 - November 1 | | | | | Each year, from October 27 through November 1, many Hispanic families around the world observe Los Días de los Muertos (“The Days of the Dead”) — a time to remember, honor, and celebrate those who have passed on.
In this beautiful tradition, elements of Aztec ritual and Catholic faith converge. The belief is that during these days, the spirits of the departed return to the earth to be close to their loved ones.
Here’s how these days are observed: - Offerings & Altars (ofrendas): Families build altars near graves or in homes, setting out candles, photos, the favorite foods of the deceased, and marigold flowers (cempazúchitl).
- Pan de los Muertos: Sweet bread baked and decorated (often with bone-shaped designs) is placed on the altar and shared with visiting spirits.
- October 27 – November 1 schedule: • October 27—bread and water offered to spirits with no surviving relatives.
- October 28—offerings made in churches for those whose spirits may be excluded from homes.
- October 31—souls of children are welcomed first.
- November 1—adult spirits are remembered. Graveyards become gathering places: families clean, decorate, light candles, and even bring music, food, and memories.
Although this tradition is most strongly associated with Mexico, it is celebrated in many Hispanic families across Belize—especially in communities where cultural ties remain strong. These observances allow families to connect across generations, maintain heritage, and keep alive the memory of those who came before.
At Big Creek Group, we appreciate the richness that cultural traditions bring to our national identity. As we approach this season of remembrance, let us encourage respect for these practices and the stories they hold for families and communities across Belize. | | | | | Previous Riddle: legs I go in hard, come out soft, and am never the same. What am I? 🤔
Answer revealed in upcoming issue. | | | 🌿October's Wellness Tip: Take Your Vitamins | | | | | No matter how balanced your meals may be, it can still be challenging for your body to get all the essential nutrients it needs from food alone. That’s where multivitamins come in.
Multivitamins are packed with vitamins and minerals that support your overall health and well-being. From boosting your immune system to improving energy levels, they help fill in nutritional gaps and keep your body functioning at its best.
Take some time to research your options and choose a multivitamin that fits your lifestyle and health needs. Adding this small step to your daily routine can make a big difference in supporting your long-term wellness. | | | | | 👉 Remember: a multivitamin is a supplement, not a substitute. Pair it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep for the best results. | | | The Port Hub⚓ Discussing all things Maritime 🚢 | | | | | 🌊 Maritime Trade Under Pressure
Global maritime trade is entering a challenging phase. According to UNCTAD, after a modest growth of 2.2 % in 2024, maritime trade is expected to slow to just 0.5 % in 2025 amid rising costs, shifting trade patterns, and geopolitical uncertainty. For the Port of Big Creek, these trends bring both headwinds and opportunities: - Increased cost pressure. As freight rates remain volatile and shipping routes are being rerouted, import and export costs could rise for Belizean businesses.
- Longer transit distances. Ships may avoid conflict zones or congested corridors, which can increase voyage times and fuel costs.
- Need for resilience and adaptation. Ports that invest in infrastructure, digitalization, sustainability, and flexibility will be better positioned to weather disruptions.
What You Should Know - The pressures on global trade aren’t going away anytime soon.
- Port Big Creek’s ability to adapt will define how well we serve our clients and secure long-term growth.
- Stakeholders (shippers, freight forwarders, businesses) should anticipate some cost fluctuations and possibly longer transit times.
| | | | | Together, we are building a deeper understanding of this vital industry—one that supports global trade, connects nations, and sustains livelihoods. We look forward to this yearly event and the positive impact it continues to create! | | | 🦺October's Safety Tip: Keep Emergency Exits Clear | | | | | In an emergency, every second counts. Clear emergency exits can make the difference between safety and danger. Always keep pathways and exits free from equipment, materials, or debris to ensure a quick and safe evacuation.
Regular inspections are an important part of workplace safety—helping to prevent obstructions and ensuring that emergency exits remain accessible and ready for immediate use. | | | | | 👉 Remember: a clear exit is a safe exit! | | | 🎶 Culture Spotlight: World Indigenous Music Festival October 12 - 14 | | | | | Get ready for IndigeNOWbelize, the World Indigenous Music Festival, from Friday, October 12th to Sunday, October 14th in Belize City!
This inspiring three-day event—hosted by the National Institute of Culture & History (NICH) in partnership with the Belize Tourism Board and others—showcases the very best of Indigenous culture, sound, and creativity.
What to Expect - Live Music Nights – On Friday (Oct 12) and Saturday (Oct 13) the concerts run in the evening (6:00 p.m. to about 2:00 a.m.), featuring both local and international artists.
- Arts, Crafts & Food – Sunday (Oct 14) shifts to daytime cultural celebration: arts and crafts stalls, authentic Indigenous food courts, and more, from about 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Diverse Indigenous Representation – This year’s focus is especially on Maya culture, but you’ll see and hear sounds, styles, and voices from a range of Indigenous groups.
Why It Matters - Celebration of Identity & Heritage: IndigeNOWbelize is more than entertainment. It’s about affirming Belize’s rich Indigenous roots, supporting arts that derive from those roots, and giving Indigenous voices a stage where they shine.
- Cultural Unity Through Music: Sharing traditional songs, instruments, and rhythms helps connect people—especially across age groups or communities that may have drifted apart.
- Boost for Tourism & Local Economy: Such festivals attract visitors, artisans, vendors, and performers—everyone contributing to Belize’s cultural tourism appeal.
Big Creek Group Sends Its Support At Big Creek Group, we believe in the power of culture to inspire, unite, and drive community pride. We applaud the organizers of IndigeNOWbelize for creating a space where Indigenous talent, craftsmanship, and heritage are honored. We encourage all our staff, partners, and friends to attend, support local artists, and immerse themselves in this vibrant expression of Belize’s authentic identity. | | | | | 🎃 Celebrating Halloween in Belize October 31 | | | | | Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has become a fun and festive occasion in Belize, enjoyed by children and adults alike. While its origins trace back to ancient Celtic traditions, today Halloween is all about creativity, costumes, candy, and community fun.
Across Belize, you’ll find families and neighborhoods getting into the spirit with decorated homes, spooky parties, and, of course, trick-or-treating. Children dress up as their favorite characters and go door-to-door collecting sweets, while adults join in the fun with themed events and costumes of their own.
At Big Creek Group, we encourage our employees to embrace the festivities and share in the joy of the season. Take your kids out for some trick-or-treating, indulge in the laughter and excitement, and enjoy a safe and memorable night together.
Halloween is a wonderful reminder that sometimes the best memories come from simple traditions — a costume, a candy bag, and quality time with family and friends.
So grab your costumes, prepare your candy bowls, and let’s celebrate Halloween the Belizean way! 🕸️👻🍬 | | | | | | | STORY TIME - The Gardener's Lesson | | | | | A gardener planted a seed in the ground. With care, they watered it, nurtured it, and patiently waited for it to sprout. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, but there was no sign of growth.
Frustrated, the gardener considered giving up. However, they decided to persist a little longer. And just when they were about to lose hope, a tiny sprout emerged from the soil, reaching for the sky.
The gardener realized that growth takes time, and it requires patience and persistence. From that moment on, they tended to the plant with renewed dedication, knowing that with continued care, it would blossom into something beautiful. | | | | | Moral of the Story: This story reminds employees that success often requires patience and perseverance. It encourages them to stay committed to their goals, even when the results aren’t immediate, knowing that consistent effort will eventually lead to growth and achievement.
Remember, every journey starts with a small step, and with determination, dedication, and belief in oneself, employees can overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. | | | Farewell to our valued employees as they pursue new opportunities and wishing them all the best in their future endeavors. | | | | Yard Maintenance Heavy Equip. & Maint. | | | | | | |
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