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Cru Consultancy Launches Champagne Specialist Certification in Canada

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:43:55 GMT

Trade-focused Certified Champagne Specialist program launches Fall 2026 in Victoria, Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa

Cru Consultancy is proud to announce the Canadian launch of the Certified Champagne Specialist , debuting in Fall 2026. This will be the first time these internationally respected Champagne trade education courses will be offered in Canada.

Developed by the Comité Champagne* (CIVC), the official trade association representing Champagne houses and growers in France, the certification program delivers in-depth, region-specific education designed for wine professionals, sommeliers, importers, educators, retailers, and hospitality trade.

Courses will initially launch in Victoria, Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa , with additional Canadian cities expected to follow.

“This is a major milestone for Canadian wine education,” said Cru Consultancy co-founder Sharon McLean. “Bringing the Certified Champagne Specialist programming to Canada creates a new level of opportunity for wine professionals to deepen both their technical understanding and their connection to the region.” Both McLean and Cru Consultancy co-founder Treve Ring completed their educators’ training with the Comité Champagne in Champagne in February 2026.

The curriculum, materials, and certification standards are supplied directly by the Comité, offering participants access to the same internationally recognized educational framework used in leading wine markets around the world.

The program explores:

Champagne terroir and viticulture
Production methods and aging
Regional history and appellation law
Styles and classifications
Sustainability initiatives
Service, pairing, and commercial applications
Numerous tasting opportunities

The in-person certification programming follows the establishment of the Canadian Bureau of the Comité Champagne in late 2024, reflecting the growing importance of the Canadian market. Canada is now the 10th most important export market by volume for Champagne.

2026 Courses are now available for registration on the Cru Consultancy** website:

Toronto – September 14 & 15
Victoria – October 4 & 5
Vancouver – October 4 & 5
Ottawa – November 23 & 24

FOR MORE INFORMATION
info@cruconsultancy.com
www.cruconsultancy.com

*Created more than 80 years ago, the Comité Champagne is the interprofessional organization representing all Champagne Houses and Winegrowers. Champagne Education is the Comité Champagne's training program for professionals and future professionals in the hospitality and wine distribution sectors.
https://www.champagne.education/en

**Founded in 2012 by wine educators Sharon McLean and Treve Ring, Cru Consultancy shares the world of wine through education, writing, and conversation. Champagne is a lifelong passion for the founders: Sharon is the Wine Scholar Guild’s French Programs Director and oversees the Champagne Masters, Bourgogne Masters, and Bordeaux Masters programmes; and Treve is a Champagne Master (WSG), internationally recognized wine critic, editor, judge, and speaker. Together, Sharon and Treve bring a rare combination of depth, insight, and experience to grow Champagne culture and knowledge.

Burnout, Mental Health, and Wildfire Recovery for BC’s Tourism Industry

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:43:53 GMT

Beyond Burnout: Supporting BC Tourism Through Recovery

It’s been a demanding summer for BC’s tourism and hospitality industry. Between packed patios, full rooms, staffing challenges, major events, and the added stress of wildfires and smoke, many workers and leaders have been under constant pressure. It’s no surprise that burnout is affecting so many people. Recovery takes time, and both workers and leaders have a role to play in supporting it.

For Workers: Recognizing Burnout and Knowing What to Do

A difficult summer can leave a mark long after conditions improve. Recognizing the signs of burnout in yourself is the first step toward addressing it.

Signs to watch for in yourself

Feeling drained even after time off
Trouble concentrating or making decisions that used to feel easy
Increased irritability, cynicism, or dreading shifts you used to enjoy
Trouble sleeping, or physical symptoms like headaches and tension
Pulling away from coworkers or friends

What you can do

Burnout can take time to recover from, and it isn't something you have to work through on your own. If you're noticing these signs, consider taking steps to get support and create space for recovery.

Talk to someone you trust. This could be a supervisor, coworker, friend, or another person in your support network. You don't have to carry it alone, and reaching out can be an important first step.
Use grounding strategies when you feel overwhelmed in the moment. These won't resolve burnout, but they can help you manage stress in the short term. Try box breathing (in 4, hold 4, out 4, hold 4), a body scan (tense and release your shoulders, jaw, and fists), or running cold water over your hands.
Make space for rest and recovery. Recovery isn't a straight line, and it may take more than a single break or day off. Where possible, give yourself opportunities to step back, rest, and recharge without treating rest as something you need to earn or accomplish.
Seek additional support if you need it. If burnout is affecting your ability to work, sleep, connect with others, or manage day-to-day life, consider reaching out for professional or workplace support. Explore go2HR's worker resources hub , which includes mental health information built specifically for tourism and hospitality workers.

For Leaders: Supporting Your Team Through Recovery

Managers and supervisors play an important role in preventing and addressing burnout. Creating a respectful workplace where people feel safe, heard, and supported can help protect mental health, reduce the risk of burnout, and make it easier for employees to recover when they are struggling.

-Build Everyday Check-In Habits

A quick check-in can make a real difference. If you notice signs like withdrawal, irritability, or increased mistakes, ask how they’re doing, listen, and help connect them to support. A quick team debrief after a shift to share what was challenging and what went well can also help everyone process the day and create closure before heading home.

-Supporting Your Team During Wildfire Stress

Wildfires can pose physical and psychological risks, especially for employees working outdoors or moving between indoor and outdoor spaces. go2HR’s Mental Health Support Resources for Wildfires one-pager brings together free, practical resources you can share with your team or post in the break room, keeping support visible and accessible when it’s needed.

-Watch for signs of fatigue and burnout

Changes in mood, more errors than usual, withdrawal from coworkers, or increased irritability can all be signs that someone is struggling. go2HR's Fatigue & Burnout Assessment Checklist for Supervisors offers a practical way to spot early warning signs and respond.

-Be flexible where you can

Some employees may need temporary schedule or workload adjustments. Where possible, flexibility shows staff that their wellbeing matters. go2HR’s Health & Safety team offers free, one-on-one support with outdoor work schedules, emergency response plans, and other safety concerns, including changing air quality. Book a free consultation when you need support.

-Build a psychologically healthy workplace for the long term

Recovery from peak season is a good moment to look at the bigger picture of psychological health and safety in your workplace. go2HR's guide on creating a psychologically healthy workplace walks through a practical framework for building a more resilient, respectful workplace year-round.

Supporting mental health after a difficult peak season takes intention, both for individual workers and for the workplaces around them. Prioritizing psychological safety now helps build a more resilient, respectful industry going forward.

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact: BC Hospitality Foundation's 20th Anniversary

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:47:00 GMT

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact: BC Hospitality Foundation's 20th Anniversary

On July 22, 2026, we proudly celebrated our 20th Anniversary , bringing together hospitality leaders, partners, donors, volunteers, beneficiaries, and friends for an unforgettable evening at LaSalle College Vancouver.

As we reflected on two decades of supporting BC's hospitality community, the evening was a powerful celebration of compassion, resilience, and the incredible generosity that continues to drive our mission forward.

Thanks to the overwhelming support of our guests, sponsors, auction donors, volunteers, and community partners, we are thrilled to share that we raised more than $125,000.

Every dollar raised will help provide emergency financial assistance to hospitality and tourism workers across British Columbia facing medical hardship.

A Night of Exceptional Hospitality

Guests enjoyed an evening filled with outstanding food, wine and cocktails, inspiring stories, an exciting live auction, and a heartfelt paddle raise that showcased the generosity of our industry.

A special thank you to our talented culinary team, whose creativity and passion made

the evening truly memorable:

 Jay Park, Boulevard - Canadian Culinary Champion Winner 2026
Jasper Cruickshank, L’Abattoir - Canadian Culinary Champion Winner 2025
 Vikram Vij, Vij’s - Chef, Author, and Television Personality
 Dino Renaerts, Bon Vivant Catering - Chef
Carol Chow - Private Chef
 Julian Bond - LaSalle College Director of Culinary Arts
 Robert Clark - Retired Chef and Author
 Mandy Vial - Chef, Baking and Pastry Faculty Lead, LaSalle College

Thank You to Our Sponsors

This milestone event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Your commitment to BC's hospitality community continues to make a lasting impact.

Looking Ahead

For 20 years, the BC Hospitality Foundation has been there for hospitality workers when they need it most. Thanks to our incredible community, we've now provided more than $1.8 million in financial assistance and scholarships, supporting 733 individuals across

British Columbia.

As we celebrate this milestone, we're also looking to the future. Together, we can continue ensuring that no member of our hospitality family has to face life's toughest challenges alone.

2025/2026 Board of Directors

Fri, 23 May 2025 18:24:42 GMT

Thank you Bill Senghera and Sandra Oldfield and welcome New Board Members

At the AGM, Board Chair, Debbie Morris acknowledged and thanked Bill Senghera and Sandra Oldfield for their time and commitment to the Foundation and welcomed new Board Members: David MacKenzie, Edan Fay, Lisa Haley and Alex Bakker. You can read more about the New Board Members HERE

Golf Tournaments open for registration

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:41:29 GMT

Register your foursome or individual players

Our Golf Tournaments are open for registration and spaces are going fast!

Join us at Tsawwassen Springs on Thursday, July 17, 2025 to play in Vancouver, presented by Containerworld - REGISTER TO PLAY IN VANCOUVER

Join us at Olympic View on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 to play in Victoria, presented by Destination Greater Victoria - REGISTER TO PLAY IN VICTORIA

Legacy Scholarships receiving applications

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 22:19:15 GMT

Wine Leadership applications close on January 24, 2025

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Thank you Spirit of Hospitality

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 18:57:43 GMT

We raised $44,570!

To everyone who bought Spirit of Hospitality Lottery tickets over the past few weeks, thank you for helping make a difference in the lives of beneficiaries.

With your support, we raised $44,570. These funds will directly support individuals in our industry facing crises due to health conditions, helping them through challenging times.

A huge thank you to the Hotel Association of Vancouver, who created this fundraiser in 2017 and continue to lead it with unwavering dedication. We are also grateful to our prize donors for their generosity. Your support makes all the difference—thank you!

Read more

Spirit of Hospitality Lottery is Live

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:22:41 GMT

Ticket sales are open until November 25, 2024

The Spirit of Hospitality Lottery is Live!

Enter to Win Luxury Getaways and Support BC’s Hospitality and Tourism Workers

Thanks to the generous contributions of partner companies from across BC, this 6-week lottery features more than $31,000 in luxury travel prizes! From city escapes to mountain adventures, the prizes include incredible hotel stays, gourmet dining, and unique experiences from across BC and around the world.

All proceeds from ticket sales will directly support the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) in providing vital assistance to hospitality and tourism workers across BC who are facing financial hardship due to serious health conditions. Our goal is to raise $60,000 , and we need the people of BC to rally behind this important annual fundraiser. With three exciting Early Bird draws and twelve thrilling vacation packages, every ticket purchased not only gives you a chance to win but also makes a meaningful difference in the life of a worker in need.

Tickets may be purchased singly or in packages:

1 for $5

3 for $10

7 for $20

20 for $50

EARLY BIRD DRAWS

Early Bird 1 – October 29 at noon

Whistler Getaway | Value $600

Prize includes a two-night stay at the Adara Hotel Whistler and two Thermal Journey gift cards from Scandinave SPA.

Early Bird 2 – November 5 at noon

Fun in Vancouver | Value $274

Enjoy a chef’s tasting menu for two at CinCin, plus a Vancouver Mysteries outdoor game for two players.

Early Bird 3 – November 12 at noon

Penticton Winery and Food Experience | Value $554

Prize includes a one-night stay in a West Wing King

Parkview Guestroom at Penticton Lakeside Resort and a tasting experience at Terravista winery.

GRAND PRIZE

Take a Ride on the Rocky Mountaineer

This is such a great prize. Don’t miss your chance to win a breathtaking luxury rail adventure for two on the Rocky Mountaineer, complete with panoramic views, gourmet dining, and world-class SilverLeaf Service - valued at $6,503!

Purchase tickets here

Thu, 02 May 2024 19:18:55 GMT

Small local winery launches campaign to support industry members in need.

Langley, BC - Township 7 Vineyards & Winery is proud to announce the launch of its fifth annual Support, Ship & Sip charity campaign, benefiting an essential industry organization - the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF). Dedicated to assisting hospitality and tourism workers facing unexpected health challenges, BCHF has provided critical support to over 300 individuals since its inception in 2006.

In the month of May, Township 7 will donate $10 from every online purchase to the BCHF, in addition to collecting direct donations on behalf of the charity. The campaign has been moved to May in 2024 as historically it is a strong month for online sales with the release of our spring wines, we want to ensure we maximise our return to this important cause. These contributions will directly aid BCHF's mission of providing essential financial assistance to those in need within the hospitality industry.

"As a member of the hospitality community, we understand the challenges faced by our peers," said Mike Raffan, General Manager, Township 7 Vineyard & Winery."We are grateful for the support of our customers and community in helping us make a positive impact through Support, Ship & Sip. Together, we can make a difference for those in our industry who need it most."

“Our industry, like others have faced so many challenges over the past few years. The need to support individuals has dramatically increased. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our donors, and fundraising campaigns like Support, Ship & Sip with Township 7.” remarked Alana Dickson, Executive Director of the BC Hospitality Foundation.

Supporters can join Township 7 Winery in their efforts by visiting township7.com during the month of May to make a purchase or make a direct donation.

For more information about the BC Hospitality Foundation, visit bchospitalityfoundation.com .

Make a Donation

Congratulations Wine Leadership Scholarship winners

lucy@bchospitalityfoundation.com (Lucy Cayuela) — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 22:47:19 GMT

Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship, Terry Threlfall Legacy Scholarship and Wine Professional Scholarship

Jaclyn Kilkkeny - Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship

Caroline Musselli - Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship

Dawn Schultz - Terry Threlfall Legacy Scholarship - 2024 scholarship sponsored by Andrew Peller

Genevieve Charbonneau - Hester Creek Wine Professional Scholarship

Rebecca van Alten - Hester Creek Wine Professional Scholarship

Nataliia Pavliuk - Hester Creek Wine Professional Scholarship

Kayla Brent - Andrew Peller Wine Professional Scholarship