| By Bob Warren Busy couple of days for Gayle Benson. The owner of the Saints and Pelicans (and numerous other businesses) addressed media questions Monday about whether Saints coach Sean Payton will return for a 17th season. Gotta give Benson points for candor: “Who knows?” she said. Then, on Tuesday morning came the announcement that Benson is partnering with the Crescent City Classic road race – a major boost to the sagging fortunes of the iconic Easter weekend 10K/walking party, Jeff Duncan reports.
Opening fire: Crime continues to command our attention. NOPD this morning asked the public for help identifying the shooters who jumped from a car on Elysian Fields Monday afternoon and opened fire on a truck. The shocking scene was captured on video.
Petitioning the court: Benjamin Beale, accused of killing and dismembering a woman in New Orleans, remains in jail on $1.4 million bond. More than 1,200 people have signed an online petition asking the court to revoke his bond. No matter, his attorneys told our Missy Wilkinson, neither Beale nor his family plan to make that bond.
The power of money: As part of a study called Baby’s First Years, some new moms in New Orleans were given an extra $333 monthly for the first four years and four months of their babies’ lives, no strings attached. The goal was gauge how poverty affects kids' brain development. Our Emily Woodruff has the details.
Return of an old friend: St. Rose Tavern has reopened after a several-months-long closure following Hurricane Ida. Dining guru Ian McNulty and photo ace David Grunfeld spent a very long lunchtime there recently.
Hope you enjoyed Lunch Line today. Thanks for taking a break with us. BW | 
