By Gina Martinez
A new campaign will show off the best spots in Flushing, as Flushingfantastic.nyc was officially launched last week.
The website is a collaboration between Asian Americans for Equality and the Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the New York City Department of Small Business Services. It is set to be Flushing’s new destination portal, helping visitors navigate the community and connect with multiple small businesses, cultural venues, restaurants, hotels and historic landmarks.
According to AAFE, the new website is an experimental approach to seeing the neighborhood through the lens of the local Flushing community. Flushing Fantastic is also a community platform for users to engage with and connect people through stories and programming. Visitors and tourist will now be able to navigate Flushing more easily. The website offers transportation options, event calendars, maps, recommendations for tours and itineraries, and fun things to do as well as area accommodations, restaurants, and shopping centers, AAFE said. Flushing Fantastic also includes a Flushing guide available to print.
City Councilman Peter Koo (D-Flushing) said the website will allow tourist and local residents to find new attractions and opportunities in Flushing.
“From world-class restaurants to historical landmarks, the uniqueness of Flushing appeals to tourists and locals alike,” Koo said. “A centralized marketing portal will capture, promote and weave together the many threads of Flushing’s small business community, service providers, and more, so that all can enjoy the distinctive appeal that makes this community truly fantastic.”
The website includes “Flushing A-Z,” which showcases landmarks and local flavors of the neighborhood; “Insider Picks,” featuring curated content and tips from community partner; an online documentary series by Flushing filmmakers; Sixty First Productions, featuring inspirational stories from locals like chef Helen You; an up-to-date events calendar and seasonal festival guide; and resources from the community about the local economy and opportunities for involvement.
The interactive website also allows the public to share comments, feedback and their ideas on the Flushing Fantastic website by contacting the Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce. Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences through Instagram and other social media platforms using #MyFlushing hashtag, and they can sign up for a newsletter through email by texting MYFLUSHING to 22828.
John Choe, executive director of the GFCC, said Flushing Fantastic allows users to enjoy the real Flushing.
“Flushing Fantastic recognizes our community’s transition from the margins to the center,” he said. “By showcasing the stories of those who struggled and overcame the odds, we chronicle a neighborhood that has become the real New York — a place where people from around the world make their home, share their unique culture, and enjoy the best America has to offer.”
Reach Gina Martinez by e-mail at gmart
