As this has been the first (half) year of CultureMap Austin's life, we thought it an appropriate time to reflect on the stories that Austin went crazy for in 2011. Ranging from the closing of one of Austin's most cherished venues to discrimination against plus-size models and the inspirational story of a brave, young teenager recently deceased, we've had plenty to talk about — and even learn from. Take a look at our top 10 most visited, popular stories below.

1. Austin teen's Christmas day death sends inspiration around the world: Ben Breedlove's last words on YouTube

He called the video "My Story." In it he uses flashcards to prepare his family and friends for his passing and describes why death no longer scares him. It's heart-breaking and inspiring.

2. Longhorn Network distribution deal is near

Speaking to representatives on all sides, I can tell you there is no one involved who wants to face the ire of a multitude of Longhorn fans descending from the stands at DKR smelling blood in the water. Not getting it done would be a public relations disaster for everyone, including the LHN.

3. With a face like that, what's not to love? Pit bull festival celebrates a misunderstood breed

Their very nature, as it turns out, works against them in the wrong hands and feeds into a misperception that ends every day with thousands of pit bulls being abused by ignorant owners or put to death in shelters because fear and ignorance stands between them and loving homes.

4. Exclusive: First Look inside new Emo's East venue, determining fate of the original

Why not pay a few extra bucks and enjoy that cheap beer in an impeccably built facility? You may miss the nostalgia, but at least you won't be standing in a stranger's piss.

5. Breaking: American Apparel officially responds to plus-sized model search winner Nancy Upton (and it ain't booty-ful)

After talking to Upton, who was bleary-eyed from school, rehearsal and an unanticipated amount of media attention when we spoke, it’s hard for us not to view her as the underdog here – which makes Alonzo, American Apparel, and the angry response they offered seem kind of like a bully.

6. Hipster Halloween costumes that will leave the East Side drooling

But [Halloween is] also a challenging time. More than any other time of the year, we want to be different, irreverent. We have to out-do our peers. We can't just walk into one of those big box Halloween stores and buy some cheap-o costume, nooo. We have to sit and think for days on what will be the most unique, most stylish, most mother f'ing hip costume Austin will ever see.

7. Drunk dialing Austin to tell her that I love her

When I first stepped foot into Austin, I instantly fell in love. And I lived up near the Domain so that says a lot. If someone's first introduction to Austin is via a luxury mall next to some planned communities and they still love it, that is good news for the city.

8. Formula 1 breaks ground: A sneak peek at Circuit of the Americas

The U.S. Grand Prix is on the calender for November 18th, 2012. The track also plans to host MotoGP — high-speed motorcycle races — and the United States debut of V8 Supercars in 2013. What does the track look like now? Join us for a "lap" ...

9. Ron Paul's ascension: Why are conservative voters supporting a man who will never be president?

Now with the Iowa primary looming on Jan. 3, voters have to sit down and eat their vegetables. They may not like it, but after they’re done whining and sobbing and debating whether or not it is time to dig up Ronald Reagan for one more term, they will won't choose Paul — because they want to win.

10. Top Chef Texas: Details on culinary stardom in the Lone Star State

Former Food & Wine Best New Chef, David Bull, who is now executive chef at Austin’s wildly popular Congress and Second Bar + Kitchen sums up the Top Chef Texas love this way: “The entire food and beverage industry is taking notice when it comes to Texas - the culture, community and history in Texas makes Top Chef a perfect fit to help showcase our state and culinary talent.”

(Plus one to grow on). Young Austin musician, Ruby Jane, carjacked at gunpoint in Houston, benefit planned

Last Thursday, the two suffered a major setback, after being robbed at gunpoint after a gig in Houston. Fortunately they were not harmed but JoBelle’s SUV was stolen, with tens of thousands of dollars worth of instruments and equipment in the back that Ruby Jane relies on for her music career, including a guitar and her custom made violin and mandolin.