| BY BOB WARREN | Staff writer |
Grim statistics: If you thought the homicide rate in New Orleans was on the rise, you’re correct. Through the first half of the year, the city has the dubious distinction of having the worst murder rate in the U.S., according to one recent survey of the grim statistics. Deluge: Thunderstorms are moving across the region, flooding streets. The city of New Orleans has lifted parking restrictions. How much more rain should we expect this afternoon? Amazon delay: Last year we told readers that Amazon was building a distribution center in Slidell. It was big news – a big name like Amazon bringing up to 400 news jobs. But the opening of the center has been delayed. Sara Pagones asked why. For more business coverage, please sign up for our NOLA Business Insider newsletter. Essence closer: The 2022 Essence Festival is in the books after a successful holiday return. Keith Spera says New Edition provided a great closing act Sunday night. Wetlands in peril: Louisiana's freshwater wetlands could be in even greater peril than initially thought. A new study spells out some new trouble. 'I cook fresh and I assassinate it': Our food guy Ian McNulty has a knack for finding great places to eat. He also has a knack for finding a good story. Today, Ian introduces us to Manny January, the proprietor of 8 Fresh Food Assassin. For even more food and drink coverage, please sign up for our Where NOLA Eats newsletter. Hope you enjoyed today’s Lunch Line. Thanks for reading – and remember, you can keep up with the news all day on NOLA.com. BW | 