Page 12 - Work Force October 2025

Zabinski honored
by NYS Comptroller
DiNapoli
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.
Zabinski, who also serves as CSEA Retiree Executive Committee Vice Chair, was presented 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, bringing 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.”
From left, Syracuse Area Retirees Local President Kathy Zabinski accepts a proclamation from New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli at the Comptroller’s New York State Fair Breakfast.
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
Elected leaders greet CSEA members working our union’s booth at the New York State
Fair. From left, Oneida-Madison- Herkimer Tri County Retirees Local member and fair volunteer Paul Stone, New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Oneida-Madison- Herkimer Tri County Retirees Local member and fair volunteer Donald Page, Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Rep. John Mannion and State Sen. Chris Ryan.
Elected officials visit CSEA’s New York State Fair booth
12 The Work Force
October 2025