Patch Flash: Three North Suburbs are Richest in Nation

Three Chicago area communities were listed among the 15 richest American zip codes in a ranking released this month. Zip code 60043, which includes the North Shore community of Kenilworth, came in as the third-richest zip code in the United States that is home to at least 100 households, based on average household income and net worth. Zip code 60045, including Lake Forest, Ill., ranked thirteenth with an average household income of $270,525 and average household net worth of $1,415,295. Finally, zip code 60093, another North Shore area which includes north suburban Winnetka and Northfield, ranked fourteenth. Home to 6,765 households, the area boosts an average household income of $278,924 and average net worth of $1,417,368. 

The owners of Buffalo Grove’s DeLuca’s Pizzeria were among a group of people charged in connection with a major narcotics trafficking operation, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez announced. Maria Garza, 37, and Carmelo Rios, 35, both of Arlington Heights, were among six people arrested and accused of importing heroin and other drugs into Cook County following a joint investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Narcotics Prosecution Bureau, Alvarez said.

Prosecutors are considering whether to file additional charges in the hunting accident that killed 44-year-old Inverness resident John Hanlon. Hanlon was killed and his 15-year-old son wounded during a hunting trip near East Dubuque. Kelly G. Jackson, 53, of East Dupubque was issued a citation for reckless conduct.

At least one person was injured when an explosion blew off the facade of an entire apartment building Dec. 12 in Skokie. The property was newly-sold and no one was living there, neighbors said. It was being renovated by contractors related to the new owner, fire officials said. One man on the scene was taken away by ambulance. The injured man was standing outside near the property prior to the explosion, officials added. 

Just-released data from ACT shows that Illinois ACT scores were up .2 points overall for the Class of 2011, capping a 20-year trend of consistent and substantial ACT score increases.

"Miracles Happen Here" say Chapel staff members. Serving 180 people per week, the newly opened community Care center in Grayslake is a place where hope is reborn. From originally serving just 10 to 15 people per week, the center has grown. And how they care for the people who come into the food pantry is what sets it apart.

"We treat people with dignity and respect," said Juli Chaffee. "We help them get the food their families need."