The William Land Golf Course in Sacramento is a historic place. It's one so many people have grown up with and have beautiful memories of.
People were shocked to hear that the golf course might close down, but now Sacramento city leaders are saying they won't let that happen.
"It's a community treasure," said Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg. "I call it a country club for working people."
The golf course has long been known by many local golfers as "the people's course" for its affordable rates. The nine-hole course was the first golf course in the city, after opening up in 1924.
Vice Mayor Steve Hansen said The First Tee, the company that operates the course, sent the city an unexpected letter last month. The company has been operating the course for 20 years and has 10 more on the lease, but wanted to terminate by the end of June.
In the letter, First Tee claims it lost $350,000 over the last five years and expected to lose another $150,000 this year.
"I believe if we had known this sooner, we would've worked with them over the last 3-4 years to improve operation," said Hansen. "We're at this point where it's urgent, and we want to resolve it. We're meeting with them to negotiate how we want to do that."
For Mike McPoyle and his son Sean, playing golf at the course is more than just a game. It's two decades of memories.
"It's the cradle. It's where the game was born you know," said McPoyle "We cherish it so."
The father-son duo started playing when Sean was just 12 years old. They still play a couple of times a week.
A group of ladies who call themselves 'The Mixed Bag' has been coming weekly for 30 years. Linda Rutledge, one of the original members says the name comes from the diversity and eclecticism of the group.
"It's a good venue for people starting out. It's also challenging for those who have been playing a long time," said Rutledge, adding with a chuckle, "Or those who have been playing a long time but still aren't great!"
Rutledge and her friends don't believe the golf course will actually close. And they just might be right.
Hansen said they are looking to keep the course open with partners, whether that's First Tee or someone else.
"I've heard almost unanimous support from members of the community [that] this is important to do," said Hansen.
"It's a big piece of Sacramento," said Steinberg. "It' very clear under no circumstances can we end that tradition."
Follow the conversation on Facebook with Frances Wang.