I would like to welcome all to our new and improved Branch 3 website.My name is Larry Kania and I am presently the Vice President of Branch 3. The Eastside of Buffalo was my home until I was hired by the USPS. I attended St. Adalberts grammar school and graduated from Bishop Turner High School. I then attended Canisius College for a couple of years and then decided to join the labor force. In the interim I was married, had three children and became a "grandad" in 2001.

In January of 1988 I became a letter carrier and began my career at the Eastside station that was located on Broadway and Bailey. A year later I was transferred to Station C where I eventually became the steward. I bid to the Ellicott station in 2003 where I am presently the steward. 

My involvement with Branch activities increased when I became a trustee in 1999. I later attended the George Meaney Labor School where I received training to become an advocate for arbitration cases. Attending the Cornell Labor Studies courses that the Branch offers free to its members has also been a rewarding experience and I strongly recommend others to attend. 

In the Fall of 2001 I was appointed Vice President of the Branch and assisted in the casual issues and route inspection problems. When the Branch began its safety program I was asked to be one of the original mentors. Unfortunately I had to step down from the safety program as the casual issues eventually absorbed all my time. 

My primary role as an officer is geared toward contract administration which can involve many hours of research and preparation. However finding time to help the Food Drive and MDA commitees allows me to help others that are not members of the Branch. 

I would like to remind all the members that the officers of this Branch have always been available to answer any questions. Our time is also yours,so feel free to call if a problem arises.

Larry Kania
Vice President