The CFL championship was the talk of the town this past week despite the Calgary Stampeder’s losing their CFL Western conference championship to our neighbors – and friends, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Street festivals, parades, and a watermelon shortage kept the town abuzz, as Calgary played host to the 97th annual Grey Cup game this year. With almost as much hype as the NFL’s Super Bowl, Calgary was busy preparing for the weekend celebrations. Those who had tickets, flocked to the grocery store in search of their favorite watermelon helmet, while others opened their homes, and hosted their own grey cup event. Among these was the Expression Community’s “Grey Cup of Coffee” celebration.

The guests in Erik and Bonnie’s home were clearly divided as one side of the room rallied behind Saskatchewan’s Roughriders, while the other side, was in full support of their opponents, the Montréal Alouettes. During play, each side enduring some friendly razzing as we cheer on our selected teams; at the commercial breaks, time outs, and penalty calls good sportsmanship was encouraged. At half time Erik held a contest to see which side had the greatest cheer for their respected teams. The Alouette fans emerged victorious as they had burst out into their rendition of “Alouette, gentille Alouette,” and claiming the illustrious prize of After Eight Dinner Mints.

The 3rd and 4th quarters of the game kept all eyes glued on the gridiron as Montreal worked to eliminate their scoreboard deficit after the first half. It was a seesaw battle as both teams went back and forth increasing their numbers. But it all came down to the final minute of play time as Saskatchewan was leading by 2 points; and all that separated the Allouettes from the win was a field goal. Amid controversy and penalties in the closing seconds of the game, Montreal made a successful field goal clinching the Grey Cup Championship, bringing the 2009 CFL season to an end.

With the Grey Cup game under wraps, the “Grey Cup of Coffee” event came to a close as Erik finished off the night by awarding the coveted Grey Coffee Cup to the rowdiest fan. From then ON the crowds dispersed, filled with good food, good fellowship, and stronger friendships … until next season!

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