SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) _ South Bend is holding a design competition for a new city flag to commemorate its 150th anniversary.

Members of the committee organizing events for the milestone announced the contest this week. Organizers said the goal is to develop a symbol that embodies South Bend's past, present and future and will serve as a distinct emblem that identifies the city.

Aaron Perri is the executive director of Downtown South Bend Inc. and the chairman of the South Bend 150 committee. He tells the South Bend Tribune (http://bit.ly/1MTbEpX) that the submissions should include references to the St. Joseph River, connectivity, an ethnically diverse heritage and innovation.

Residents are invited to submit designs for a new city flag through Nov. 15 and the winner should be announced early next year.