Classic Muffaletta (© Terry Poche | Dreamstime.com)

Being a journalist can be tough. Key people can be reluctant to provide information and answer questions. Those fingered by the media as miscreants can become hostile and even violent.

But there are rewards, and not just Pulitzer Prizes. Sometimes the getting of the story is a reward in itself, an experience many of us would relish. Recently, Mary Ellen Botter, the travel editor for the Dallas Morning News, covered just such a story. Displaying a determination to pursue the facts that would credit any reporter, Ms. Botter sampled sandwiches at 19 shops and restaurants recommended by locals in New Orleans. And she did it in 49 hours! Among the intrepid reporter's favorite finds was the Muffuletta served at Serio's Po-Boys & Deli at 133 St. Charles Avenue.

If you’d like to read Ms. Botter’s article on her findings during her fabulous feast in the Big Easy go to: New Orleans delivers great sandwiches

If you'd like some info on getting to New Orleans to sample those sumptuous sandwiches in person go to: New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau