Chamber of Commerce in Flushing dissolves

“This is a long time in coming,” Herce said. “In 1928, we were the only group, but today there are many others, including the Flushing Chinese Business Association, Korean-American Association and the Flushing Business Improvement District.”

Herce, who got involved with the chamber in the late 1980s said it was not a sad day for her, however. “We are confident the many varied business groups that are in place can handle any new issues,” she said.

Her co-president, Richard Gelman, now lives in Florida, but allowed the chamber to use office space and staff of his business, the National Bank of New York City on 38th Avenue.

Since the announcement, there has been talk of others starting another overall business group. “If there is a need, another group will spring up,” Herce said.

Dian Yu, executive director of the Flushing BID, said Wednesday he was a little surprised at the announcement. “Myra was an important part of it, but she’s still here and we’ll be fine,” Yu said. “But no one can fill Myra’s role.”

Fred Fu, former president of the FCBA, said there should be one group that oversees the entire business community. “The name can’t be substituted,” Fu added.