NOLA Navy Week kicked off the three-year national commemoration of the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner. Large navy vessels and tall ships from countries around the world docked along the Mississippi River in New Orleans for the celebration, which took place April 17 through 23, 2012.

The New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation led the event, and Ragusa was tasked with managing communications for the culminating Blue Angels’ air shows. The messaging strategy extended far beyond simply promoting the time and location. Ragusa’s efforts were successful, meeting all the objectives set forth at the outset of the project. Media coverage was widespread, positive, and informative. Every single target media outlet covered the story.