SYRACUSE – Syracuse Area Retirees Local President Kathy Zabinski was honored by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli at his annual New York State Fair Breakfast for her years of advocacy and dedication to public service.
DiNapoli presented Zabinski, who also serves as CSEA Retiree Executive Committee Vice Chair, with a proclamation that read, in part:
“After retiring from a 31-year career with the Onondaga County Department of Corrections, Kathy has continued her legacy of service through numerous leadership roles—including her ongoing work with CSEA Retirees,” noted the proclamation. “[She became] a strong advocate for workplace safety after losing her father to asbestos poisoning and using her personal experience to drive meaningful union advocacy. Kathy has shown strong commitment to her community and public service, running for Town of Salina Supervisor in 2021 and continuing to support retiree issues statewide. [Zabinski] is proud to dedicate her time and energy to the advancement of union causes, brining with her a legacy of leadership, commitment, and service.”
Central Region President Kenny Greenleaf, a previous honoree, lauded Zabinski’s activism and dedication to retiree issues and rights.
“Kathy is an unmatched asset to our union,” said Greenleaf. “Her dedication to helping others retire into the best situation possible is unparalleled. We are spoiled to have her here in the Central Region where she attends and helps at every conference and countless local and unit meetings. I’m proud of her outstanding service and even more proud to call her a friend.”
While accepting DiNapoli’s proclamation, Zabinski spoke passionately about Social Security and Medicare.
“These are not entitlements, I’m tired of that word,” said Zabinski. “Everyone here knows that we earned them and they’re not an entitlement. When someone uses that word, please correct them, because we want those things there for our future retirees as well.
– Nicholas Newcomb