December's Top Stories: The Hobbit, Connolly Urges Gun Buyback, B&N Closing

In December, Herndon area Patch readers were anticipating the release of The Hobbit and made Cinema Siren's review of the film our most-read article of the month. 

Herndon Patch readers were also reading articles related to the tragedy in Newtown, including Congressman Gerry Connolly urging a gun buyback program and a response to the tragedy from the Fairfax-based National Rifle Association.

Other articles frequently clicked on were stores open late Christmas Eve and the closing of the Reston Barnes and Noble, which will be replaced by a Container Store. 

For more on each story, click the links below. Stories are listed in order of popularity as of December 31.

'The Hobbit': An Only Sometimes Unexpected Cinematic Journey

Cinema Siren's Review of the film was Herndon Patch's top article of December.

Connolly Urges $200 Million Gun Buyback Program

After the shooting in Newtown, CT Congressman Connolly put out a call to action. 

The National Rifle Association, based in Fairfax, responded to the Newtown tragedy. 

Stores Open Late Christmas Eve

A few area stores, like Kmart and Sears, were open late on Christmas Eve for those last minute shoppers. 

Reston Barnes & Noble Closing in Early 2013

It was announced that the Reston Barnes and Noble location would be closing in February and The Container Store will open in its place. 

Herndon Police Seek Suspects in 7-Eleven Robbery

In late November, two men robbed the 7-Eleven location on Crestview Drive at gunpoint. 

2012's Popular Baby Names

Some of the most popular names of 2012 include: Sophia, Emma, Olivia, Isabella, Ava, Aiden, Ethan, Liam, Mason and Jacob. 

The Herndon Police Department held a DWI and license checkpoint in December to ensure drivers weren't on the road impaired. 

Recipe Book: How to Cook A Perfect Prime Rib Roast

Prime rib is a top choice for the holidays and Nancy let everyone know how to make it perfect. 

Fire Breaks Out on Coppermill Drive

A town home caught on fire on Coppermill Dr. The inhabitants made it out OK and declined Red Cross assistance. 

Bus Driver Extricated from Rock Hill Road Accident

The driver of a bus extricated from the vehicle and was taken to the hospital after colliding with a tree. 

Two publications put Herndon on the map on their "best" lists, including friendliest town and best place to raise kids. 

Green Lizard Cycling Coming to Downtown Herndon

A number of new businesses announced they'll be opening in Herndon, including Green Lizard Cycling. 

10 New Year's Eve Events In and Around Herndon

An old article on New Years Eve events in Herndon resurfaced. 

Jimmy's Continues Reign as King of the Wings

Jimmy Cirrito of Jimmy's Old Town Tavern danced in the streets again to celebrate another King of the Wings crown. 

2012-2013 NCAA College Bowl Game Schedule: Northern Virginia Natives Appearing

With College Bowl season in full swing, many are looking for information on when the games they really want to see are happening.

Ten Businesses Open on Christmas Eve & Day

Another 2010 article resurfaced as folks looked for what was open and closed in Herndon.

Copan Tex-Mex Coming to Downtown Herndon

A bright red sign announced that Copan Tex-Mex is on its way to the old So Addictive space on Elden Street. 

Holiday Recipes: Easy Christmas Cookies

Nancy shared her top recipes on easy Christmas cookies for the holidays.

Letter to the Editor: What Every Boy Needs for Christmas in 2012

Reader Steven Toole wrote in about the difference Boy Scouting can make in a life. 

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