JUNE 13, 2025 — A Pineville, Louisiana entrepreneur has introduced a new city flag design, aiming to offer a modern symbol for the community while committing to cover all associated costs himself, reports KALB.
At the June 10 city council meeting, Jorge Rocha, owner of Li’l Chubbys and a longtime graphic designer, presented a package of flag designs to Pineville officials.
Rocha’s proposed flag builds upon the design created by Lloyd Hawthorne in 1968 but introduces a simplified layout that he believes would better represent Pineville’s future.
“When you think of a successful, effective flag that is timeless and lasts for generations… you think of a simple flag that kids can draw from memory,” he explained.
The design includes red elements symbolizing the Red River, blue sections representing a hopeful horizon, and a central fleur-de-lis modified to include a pinecone, paying tribute to the city’s French heritage and name.
While the proposal sparked conversation, it also met with mixed reactions from residents. According to KALB, a slight majority of locals expressed opposition to the design. Mayor Joe Bishop acknowledged the suggestion but indicated that his administration currently has other priorities.
Still, Rocha emphasized that his intention was not to burden the city financially. “To avoid City budgeting disruptions with this proposal, I will personally foot the bill to replace all flags across our institutions, streets and wherever else needed,” he stated.
He also unveiled variations of the design tailored to holidays such as Mardi Gras, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Halloween, and Christmas.
Rocha also made it clear that the current flag remains valued.
“That’s not saying we want to do that, I’m happy with the Pineville flag we have right now,” Bishop said. “We’re proud of our country, we’re proud of our Pineville flag, we’re proud of our Pineville Rebels.”
Image: Jorge Rocha
