Yesterday at Heritage Oaks Golf Course, which is owned and run by the City of Harrisonburg, Harman Construction broke ground for a new golf center for The First Tee. The First Tee is a national, non-profit program for youth to not only build upon their golf skills, but also their confidence, social skills, and character. This new learning center is expected to open in May.

While it’s open to the public, the more than 200 members of The First Tee at Heritage Oaks are expected to be the primary users of the 4,200-square-foot building being constructed near the course’s pro shop.

Read more about this project here.

Looking for housing near this golf course? Check out homes for sale in Heritage Estates (a 55+ community that borders Heritage Oaks), Hampshire Estates, and Parklawn.

The Fifth Annual Farmers Insurance Study reported that Harrisonburg, Virginia is the 8th most secure place to live in the small town category of the United States. MarketWatch.com published an article with the rankings, and how Farmers Insurance ranked each locale.

The rankings, compiled by database experts at www.bestplaces.net, took into consideration crime statistics, extreme weather, risk of natural disasters, housing depreciation, foreclosures, air quality, life expectancy and job loss numbers in 379 U.S. municipalities. The study divided the communities into three groups: large metropolitan areas, mid-size cities and small towns.

Other towns in Virginia that made the list are Charlottesville, Roanoke, and Lynchburg. Read the rest of this article here.

Although Harrisonburg is a great place to live, it is always a good idea to get away for a weekend here and there throughout the year. Harrisonburg is within driving distance of many fabulous get-aways, so pack your bag, hop in the car, and drive a couple of hours to one of these destinations:

• Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello: The Commonwealth of Virginia is overflowing with history. Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States and founder of the University of Virginia, lived in a huge mansion with immaculate gardens surrounding all sides. His home was perched on a hill and boasts amazing views. A special treat for those visiting throughout December… there are holiday evening tours! Visit Monticello (a quick one hour drive from Harrisonburg), take a tour, stroll the grounds, shop in the gift shop, and then head on over to the Mitchie Tavern for a cold brew. For more information, visit the Monticello website.

Jefferson's Monticello

• Williamsburg: Williamsburg is packed with Colonial history! A 2 1/2 hour drive from Harrisonburg, Williamsburg offers museums, attractions (like Busch Gardens), shopping, a variety of great dining choices, and guided tours of historic Jamestown, historic Yorktown, and Colonial Williamsburg. You might need to visit twice to get it all in! For more information, visit the official Williamsburg website.

• Bryce Resort: If you want outdoor attractions, this is the place to go for a weekend! Bryce Resort is a 45 minute drive from Harrisonburg, located Northeast of Harrisonburg and very close to the West Virginia border in Basye, Virginia. This resort offers snow sports, golf, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, and so much more. Enjoy the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley for your weekend get-away at Bryce Resort. For more information, visit Bryce Resort’s website.

• Homestead Resort: Fine dining, luxurious living, and a touch of history make The Homestead a great place to visit for a few days. This resort offers a spa experience, golf, tennis, and special holiday packages. The Homestead is located in Hot Springs, Virginia, which is just under 2 hours from Harrisonburg. For more information, visit The Homestead’s website.

• Washington, DC: Head North to Washington, DC, our nation’s capitol. We have a beautiful capitol city and it is jam-packed with things to do and see. Visit all the monuments and Smithsonian museums, Arlington National Cemetery, The White House, and listen to some local music at one of several clubs located downtown. The eateries range in price and style, so pick your favorite, and you will be sure to enjoy your entire stay in Washington, DC. For more information, visit Washington’s website.

Capitol Building in Washington, DC

• Potomac Highlands of West Virginia: This area of West Virginia is filled with activities for all ages. Enjoy winter games, views from a train car, biking, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, golf, the list goes on. Relish the outdoors in this gorgeous environment. To make it a cozy experience, stay at a bed and breakfast and go on a wine tour. For more information, visit West Virginia’s website.