It's time to celebrate. Saxon Golf Course is 50 years old.

When Frank Ekas Sr. and Bud Klingensmith bought 184 acres of farmland in 1954 they did not know it was going to be a golf course. It was not until 1958 when Frank quit his job at Oberg Industries that the two began construction of the course.

Frank is quoted as saying, "Bud had the money and I had the time."

In 1960 the front 9 holes opened. In 1962 the original 18 hole course was complete. One of the flattest courses in Western Pennsylvania, Sarver welcomed this business to its town.

In 1976, Frank Ekas Sr. bought out his partner making it a family business. He worked in the shop and out on the course and his wife, Francis "Peach" Ekas ran the club house and did the book work.

Their son, Frank Jr., followed in his father's footsteps learning the golf course business. He is now the present superintendent, while his wife, Shirley, has taken over the secretary duties after the passing of Peach.

Saxon has been in business through the good days of the steel mills running full blast and the bad days after the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

It had its share of devastation when the 1985 tornado went through, changing the whole complexion of the course. But even from that, Frank saw opportunity. In 1992, The East course opened, making Saxon a 27-hole course.

One of the best things to happen in the area was the opening of Route 28. This gave golfers from Pittsburgh and North Hills easy access to Saxon.

Now after 50 years Saxon wants to invite you to a weeklong celebration. From May 24 to May 28, prices will reflect that of 1960. Greens fees will be $3 for 9 holes and $5 for 18 holes.

Come live the days of past and enjoy some afternoons on the course.

"We would not be here today if it wasn't for our loyal customers, and we want to show them how much we appreciate their business," the Ekas family says.

So if you have never played this course before or you are a regular visitor, the Saxon family welcomes you to join in their celebration.

See you on the course.