| By DREW BROACH | Staff writer |
GET DOWN: Blessed by cloudless blue skies and relatively mild temperatures, the 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival got off to a fast, sunny start. For a time in mid-afternoon, food and drink lines were long and slow at the first cashless Jazz Fest. But the music, the dancing and the sights were something to behold. Lizzo closed out the main stage, a day after celebrating her 35th birthday at Tujague's Restaurant. ANCHORS AWEIGH: Three years ago this month, New Orleans' cruise ship sector, like much of the hospitality industry, was docked by the COVID-19 pandemic and left with an uncertain future. Recent numbers suggest the business has not only rebounded but is stronger than ever. RIPE FOR PICKING: The New Orleans Saints selected a prolific pass rusher and an explosive running back in the second and third rounds of the NFL Draft. COMING SOON: Get the biggest Jefferson Parish stories direct to your inbox each weekday -- free. Sign up for Jefferson Parish Today. Welcome to the weekend. Catch up on the latest news on NOLA.com. Drew. | 