Illinois Valley

The Illinois Valley is a region that is located in the north-central part of Illinois. Approximately 100 miles southwest of Chicago, the Illinois Valley is often referred to simply as "the IV" Though the region is not geographically defined it is generally accepted that it is bordered by Mendota on the North, Streator on the South, Princeton on the West, and Marseilles on the East. The IV is characterized by a larger than average number of bars per capita, resulting in a higher level of alcoholism than is generally found across the country. Alternatively, there is a larger than average number of churches per capita. The IV is located in a largely rural area covered in corn and soybean fields. There are many business establishments named after the Illinois Valley, including Illinois Valley Community Hospital (IVCH) and Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC). IVCC students characteristically play Euchre and other card games instead of going to class, as a result it is not uncommon to remain an IVCC student for three years or more.