Her Excellency Adrienne Clarkson, presents the 2002 Michener Citation of Merit to Joe Ruscitti representing The London Free Press.
The newspaper was recognized for solid and persistent reporting that exposed widespread abuses at city hall. The city council has implemented a series of reforms.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at Rideau Hall, Ottawa, April 10, 2003.
The distinction between this and other media awards is primarily the emphasis on the degree of arms-length public benefit that is generated. Journalistic excellence alone is not enough. Other criteria include the resources available to the news organizations, an effort to level the playing field for small, medium and large applicants.