Here are the top local stories we've been following on Easley Patch:

Monday

Officials with the School District of Pickens County are hoping to address the issue of distracted driving head-on with the introduction of the Alive at 25 safe driving course offered by the South Carolina Chapter of the National Safety Council.

The school board announced it would review new plans to preserve the 1939 Easley High School building.

Tuesday

The Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2012 Board of Directors and elected officials.

Every week or so, we'll post a picture of a vacant store or lot in the Easley area and ask for you opinions about what type of business should occupy that space. This week we asked for your opinions about a downtown retail store front located at 201 W. Main Street.

Wednesday

Just one week after concerned residents petitioned the school district, a new plan was approved for the conversion of Easley High School into a middle school, while preserving the existing buildings.

What began as a public discussion about allowing a non-profit organization to sell alcohol during a fundraising event quickly became a contentious debate among city council and a group of concerned Easley residents Tuesday night.

Thursday

Three Easley High School students were recognized for their accomplishments on Wednesday for their athletic achievements during a ceremony on National Signing Day. Brandaun Addison, Emily Lewis, and Zach Lappin all received athletic scholarships to attend college.

An Easley man faces multiple charges after police say he assaulted a woman, led police in a chase, and endangered the life of a baby.

Friday

The stage at the Easley Foothills Playhouse is set for suspense as the theater opened Friday night with Agatha Christie's "Witness For the Prosecution."