On July 19, 2008 the New York Yee Fong Toy Association (YFT) along with Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA) and 5^th Precinct Auxiliary Police Unit hosted a celebration for Inspector Gin Yuen Yee at Golden Bridge Restaurant. Gin Yee was promoted to Inspector during the NYPD Promotion Ceremony held at Police Headquarter on Friday, June 27, 2008. Inspector Yee is currently the Commanding Officer of the 5^th Precinct. Under his leadership, Chinatown has seen many changes since February 15, 2007. Growing up in Chinatown, Gin has a unique understanding of the communities’ needs. He is also not afraid of doing what is right. Gin’s genuine concern with quality of life issues, safety of the residents of his community and his officers as well as the crime stats, makes him well appreciated by all. It is no wonder that over 200 community leaders, friends and families came out to celebrate his promotion.

The evening was filled with well wishes and praises for our cousin Gin. Among some of the speakers were Director-General of TECO Ambassador Kenneth Liao, Grand Elder Peter Yee, CCBA President Justin Yu and Deputy Chief Shuck Seid of the Auxiliary Police Unit. During one of the speeches, it was remarked that one reason why Gin was promoted so fast was to give the Chinese media a chance to correct his Chinese name (余振源). Some of the many guests attending this evening included George Hu from Governor Paterson’s office and Lolita Jackson from Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s office. To show the communities appreciations, YFT Presidents Gong Sum and Kenneth, Soo Yuen Association Presidents, Ma Association Presidents, CCBA President Justin Yu with Lin Sing President James Wong, Hoy Sun Ning Yung President Alex Wong, and Deputy Chief Seid all presented the commemorative plaques to Gin.

Next was a moment everyone was waiting for. The audience broke into thunderous applause when Gin was asked to say a few words. I was impressed with Gin’s confidence and the sincerity he had addressing the audience. Gin thanked the hosts, community leaders and guests for coming and showing their support for him. He thanked everyone, especially Commissioner Kelly for giving him the opportunity to make a difference in the community. In his remarks, he reminded that everyone should think about his/her safety when walking the streets of our city. He warned that people should not flash their jewelry and one should pay close attention when crossing the streets. He even singled out some attendees he recognized for a friendly exchange of advice. His popularity, after 18 months as a hands-on 5^th Pct Commanding Officer in one of the largest Asian populated communities in the city, speaks for itself. There is no doubt the community and 5^th Pct will benefit from Inspector Yee’s new perspective level.

Earlier in the day, Gin honored our family association by coming to our hall to pay homage during ancestral services. Joining us were Auxiliary Police Chief Seid, cousins from Ma & Tse associations, Gin’s mother and guests. We all enjoyed everyone’s company and the buffet luncheon in Gin’s honor. We are fortunate that Gin realizes the importance of Chinese traditions and giving us our family association the opportunity to promote the Yee name. We should all thank Gin for all his efforts.

Frank Yee, NY