Hello, Athens

09/25/2025

🌟 Local Spotlight | Jug’s BBQ Seasoning 🌟

Around here, good food is about more than just what’s on the grill — it’s about the people gathered around it. That’s the heart behind Jug’s BBQ Seasoning, a locally made favorite that has been adding flavor (and a whole lot of love) to backyard cookouts since 2013.

With blends like All Purpose, Sweet Heat, and the classic Salt-Pepper-Garlic, Jug’s BBQ Seasoning is crafted to bring out the best in whatever you’re grilling. Made right here in our community and shipped worldwide, it’s a hometown brand that’s earned fans far beyond Athens.

From tailgates to family dinners, Jug’s BBQ is proof that the best meals are the ones shared. Who’s hungry? 🔥🍔

09/23/2025

✈️ Big news for Athens students!
Current 8th–12th graders have the opportunity to travel from Athens, IL to Athens, Greece in June 2027!

Families are invited to an info session this Sunday, 9/28 at 6pm in the AHS Cafeteria to learn all about the trip.
Don’t miss this chance to explore Greece and be part of an unforgettable experience!

RSVP using the QR code or this link: https://rsvp.eftours.com/644sdsk

09/23/2025

🌟 Local Spotlight | Amy O’Dell – Plexus 🌟

Health and wellness are on the rise in our community, and Plexus is one of the exciting ways people are reaching those goals. Amy O’Dell, a local Plexus Ambassador, is passionate about whole-body wellness and loves cheering others on to feel their absolute best!

From better gut health and steady energy to those small, everyday wins that add up over time — Amy is all about encouraging her neighbors and celebrating every step forward. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and we’re thankful for all of the small-town advocates like Amy who bring passion, positivity, and a spark of wellness to Athens!

09/20/2025

✨ Around Athens ✨
Here are a few recent snapshots from our community — some shared with us, some caught on our own. Now we’d love to see your view of life in our town!

Drop your pictures from the week in the comments below — whether it’s family, friends, food, or a favorite moment. Together they tell the story of our community!

09/17/2025

Ready for spooky season? Say less. Check out Halloween hours in Athens!

09/17/2025

✨ Local Spotlight | Jessica Lauren Paints ✨

Athens is full of creative talent, and Jessica Lauren Paints is proof of that. From small framed pieces to large-scale murals, Jessica brings color and life to the spaces around us through her acrylic and watercolor art.

Her work can be found on canvases, across walls, and even right here in our community—adding beauty and personality wherever she paints. Whether it’s a custom commission or a mural that tells a story, Jessica is putting her heart into every brushstroke.

Want to see her work up close? Stop by The Corner Cup to catch a glimpse of her art in person!

09/16/2025

Did you know Athens’ Main Street is home to Central Illinois' leading academy for American Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, and Grappling?

Wrights Personal Fitness has updated their membership options to make training more accessible for the whole family—plus, they’re offering $50 OFF monthly memberships for police & military, and a FREE first week for new members.

Check out their membership plans and see why Wright’s is a great option for fitness and training right here in our community!

🔥 NEW Monthly Membership Pricing at Wright’s! 🔥

At Wright’s, we believe training should be accessible for the whole family. That’s why we’ve updated our membership options to help you stay safe, healthy, and connected—without breaking the budget. 💪

🇺🇸 Special Thanks to Our Heroes! 🇺🇸
We proudly support our Police and Military. To honor your service, all active law enforcement officers and military members receive $50 OFF any monthly membership plan (single and above).

👊 New to Wright’s? Your first week is FREE—come experience the training, the community, and the results for yourself!

09/16/2025

✨ Local Spotlight | Karen Stott’s Licensed Home Daycare ✨

Since 1994, Karen Stott’s Licensed Home Daycare has been serving families in the Athens school district — helping kids from kindergarten through 5th grade grow, learn, and thrive in a safe and supportive space.

It’s businesses like this that remind us how much heart and dedication lives right here in our community. For more than 30 years, Karen has been helping to build strong minds and bright futures, and her work continues to impact local families every single day.

Openings are available now — an incredible opportunity for families looking for trusted care close to home.

09/15/2025

Sunday Community Spotlight!

Who brought a little light to your week? Share below, and let’s all go out and be the good in our community. 💚

09/13/2025

Community Kindness 💚
This morning, a kind gentleman at Casey’s stepped in to cover donuts for the JH softball girls. Acts of kindness like this make Athens such a special place to live!
If anyone knows who he is, tag him so he sees the gratitude!