September 7, 2022 - San Francisco Post

How This Disability Nonprofit Has Changed the Lives of Those in the Disability Community in 2022

San Francisco Post Staff on September 7, 2022

Josh Fields was 16 when he realized that teens with disabilities had few opportunities after high school. His best friend had Down syndrome, and the difference between their future options frustrated him more and more as graduation loomed closer.

“I was furious,” remembers Fields. “I kept asking, what can we do?”

Fields turned his frustration into action and created The Next Steps Programs (TNS) to initiate change. Seven years later, that nonprofit is still disrupting the system and exhibiting phenomenal growth.

Can a high school student make a difference for the disabled community?

Fields and his friend, Richard Price, co-founded TNS in 2015. Their nonprofit has a two-pronged approach. For young people with disabilities, TNS provides programs covering social skills, money management, independent living, career exploration, entrepreneurism, cooking, fitness, and healthy living. TNS also works with employers one-on-one, demonstrating how people with intellectual and developmental differences, such as autism, Down Syndrome, and cerebral palsy, make excellent employees.

“Employers benefit when they hire individuals with disabilities,” Fields explains. “National employment studies clearly prove that people with disabilities have equal or higher performance ratings, better retention rates, and less absenteeism than workers without disabilities. We use the facts to show employers that hiring people with disabilities is both the human thing to do and a sound business practice.”

TNS provides its services for a minimal fee, but never turns away clients for lack of payment. By 2018, the nonprofit was serving 11 young people with disabilities. Today, they reach 75 people throughout greater Philadelphia.

2022 marks a year of unprecedented growth for the Next Steps Programs

2022 has been a year of constant and steady growth for The Next Step Programs. At the conclusion of 2021, Josh Fields came on board full-time as Chief Executive Officer. In February 2022, he expanded the TNS year-round team to include a Program Manager, Marketing Coordinator, and Community & Family Manager . This new staff was exactly what TNS needed to support its expanding programs and operations.

In May, TNS opened its first office space. “We’re excited to move from a rented space at St. Cyril’s social hall in Jamison, PA to a more permanent home at 204 N. West St. in Doylestown Borough,” announces Fields. “This larger space enables us to launch a new Community and Career Center offering programs to families and young adults multiple times a week. The programs will continue to focus on supporting young adults with disabilities as they transition from high school into employment and independent living.”

In May 2022, TNS demonstrated further growth by providing the first program outside of the Greater Philadelphia area. Program Manager Lisa Butler spearheads the new program location. “We launched TNS Cumberland County to serve young adults with disabilities in the Greater Harrisburg area,” says Fields. “This expansion proves that our TNS model is needed and can be effective in all communities.”

Forging community connections to bring lasting change

During the summer of 2022, TNS piloted a new initiative entitled Explore Bucks County. The new opportunity included five weeklong day programs for young adults and adults with disabilities to explore community offerings in the way of worksites, philanthropy, and recreational opportunities. “This new offering is a huge success,” Fields reports. “It’s paving the way for new business partnerships and new opportunities for young adults in our community!

As summer drew to a close in August, TNS hosted its Annual Today is the Future Gala. This year’s fundraiser brought in over $75,000 to support the nonprofit’s growing financial aid fund and program expansion opportunities.

“During a year when many organizations struggle to recruit volunteers and pull in funding, The Next Step Programs continues to innovate and grow,” remarks Fields. “We are constantly building new relationships and lasting partnerships to create more and more opportunities for the disability community.”

As TNS moves forward in September, the staff is enthusiastic about its upcoming fall programs in Bucks County as well as Cumberland, Pennsylvania. The nonprofit is entering its largest season to date, serving more than 70 individuals with disabilities from across the commonwealth. “Our expanding programs this season feature opportunities and experiences for young adults to gain skills in communication, employability, independent living, critical thinking, and so much more,” says Fields. “The world is changing. It’s becoming more accepting of those with disabilities, and we’re proud to be a part of that change.”

How Primum Law Group is Helping International Tech Companies and Startups with Expansion

San Francisco Post Staff on September 7, 2022

Scaling as an international startup is no small feat. It helps to have an ally who knows the landscape and won’t back down from a challenge.

Svetlana Kamyshanskaya, founder of Primum Law Group, is an immigrant who chased down the American dream. Her experience, personal touch, and determination are helping other international entrepreneurs do the same.

“I offer unique value to international startups,” she says. “I appreciate the cultural differences behind cross-border transactions, and I understand the decision-making process in legal systems around the world.

Practicing international law

Kamyshanskaya started her legal career 20 years ago, but she found her passion for law much earlier. As a third-generation lawyer, she proudly follows in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, who practiced law before her in Russia.

In 2006, Kamyshanskaya visited the United States to participate in a training program organized by the Center for Citizen Initiatives in San Francisco and financed by the US State Department. She describes that experience as nothing less than life-changing. “The program introduced me to the US legal system, but it also introduced me to the concepts of diversity and equality,” she reflects. “Those ideas did not exist in Russia. For example, the law school I attended had a 10% cap on female students.”

While in San Francisco, Kamyshanskaya met her first international client, a businessman looking for legal counsel in Sochi. Soon after, Sochi was chosen as the home of the 2014 Olympic games, bringing a flood of international clients and companies to her doorstep. Her legal career expanded as she gained experience supporting both local businesses and foreign companies with projects in Russia.

Because Kamyshanskaya was involved in international business, she decided to obtain another degree in the United States. At Berkley Law School, she earned a Master’s in business law.

In the US, Kamyshanskaya took a position at a business consulting firm. As managing partner, she reviewed businesses’ potential for entering the US market and assisted with their entry strategies. She conducted risk assessments of commercial transactions, identified potential compliance vulnerabilities, and developed corrective action plans to resolve the issues that arose.

Benefits of a multicultural background

Kamyshanskaya’s education and work experience in two very different countries inform her approach to business and law. She has worked in a country where the government has almost absolute power to manipulate businesses and outcomes, as well as a country with high levels of transparency. This cultural perspective enables her to advise US companies and companies across Europe. She successfully navigates the legal and cultural differences between purpose-driven and profit-driven entities and understands their motivations.

With empathy and finesse, Kamyshanskaya brings parties together, builds trust, creates clear processes, and communicates effectively to bridge the cultural gap that so often derails international business discussions. About the benefit of a multicultural perspective, she says, “Unless you have an international background, you can only imagine the societal and cultural differences that impact both business and law.”

Launching Primum Law Group

Five years ago, Kamyshanskaya launched Primum Law Group as a boutique corporate law firm to help start-up entrepreneurs and established international companies develop US operations and take full advantage of business opportunities. “My international experience and background help me understand the pain points for international companies attempting to scale,” she says. “I have extensive experience in both business and law. I understand my clients’ day-to-day operations and speak the language of the business sector. I take on their legal challenges so that they can focus on their company’s growth.”

When international businesses can focus on what they do best without being required to learn the intricacies of various foreign legal systems, they have a major advantage. “We’re a small enough firm that we know our clients’ needs personally,” remarks Kamyshanskaya.

The force behind Primum Law Group is global perspective. As an immigrant who has grown businesses in Russia and the US, Kamyshanskaya has been where her clients are today. The team at Primum Law Group strategizes to guide owners, entrepreneurs, and executives through the full array of corporate activities, including organization, development, compliance, funding, growth, and exit.

Each client has a different goal. Primum begins by developing a thorough understanding of the founder’s vision. The firm ensures companies are ready for investors by properly structuring the business and protecting intellectual property. Primum then offers resources and makes introductions to assist in raising capital. If the company’s goal is to be acquired as soon as possible, the firm begins work on the exit strategy by raising funds, validating the product, and finding the right buyer.

“We bring more than just legal services,” Kamyshanskaya explains. “I have set up incubators in nine different countries and know what it takes to launch and scale internationally. Our approach depends on the company’s ultimate goal. It’s all about action and reaction, anticipating the move before the move.”

The boutique law firm has quickly become a thriving practice in San Francisco, thanks to the hard work of its founder and the quality work produced by the team. As entrepreneurs launch their startups and begin to delve into the realities of the corporate world, they will need a partner to lessen the burden on them and resolve any issues that arise. Here’s where Kamyshanskaya and her team step in. “I started Primum Law Group with only a handful of clients to vouch for my integrity, skills, and results,” she recalls. “I was confident in my ability and worked hard to build a solid reputation. It has been five years, and I could not be happier.”

The Best Fat Cat Pizza and Why They’re Worth Your Buck

San Francisco Post Staff on September 7, 2022

If you live in the greater New York area, one of your favorite go-to pizzerias may just be Fat Cat Pizza. With locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens—and nearly every neighborhood in between—you’re never too far from a slice of this delicious pizza pie. And if you’re thinking that they may be worth the trek for their pizza alone. Then think again: Their wings are where it’s at! The restaurant is famous for their wings and “Buffalo” sauce. If you’re thinking that this may be just another fancy restaurant. Trying to cash in on a trendy flavor that’s doing the rounds, then think again. Fat Cat Pizza’s wings are something else.

The wings come in two flavors—original and buffalo—and both are equally mouthwatering. If you like your wings doused in spicy Buffalo sauce. Then you won’t find a better place in the city to satiate your craving. Their wings are crispy and bone-in, making every wing end that much more delicious. If you’re like most people who love Buffalo-style wings. But are wary of their frequent trips to the can, then keep reading! Fat Cat’s wings have just the right amount of hot sauce to give you the flavor. That you crave without making you feel like a firecracker just went off in your mouth. You’ll thank us for this tip later.

Not only is the quality of the wings superior, but you can get as many as you want. They’re “all-you-can-eat.” If you want ten wings, then that’s what you’ll get! If you want fifty wings, then that’s what you’ll get! If a burning need for chicken wings suddenly comes upon you and overwhelms your senses. Before dinner time, then there’s no better place than Fat Cat Pizza. You’ll have a table full of hot, crispy wings in no time at all.

Pros Cons quality ingredients, Buffalo-style wings are good for you not so much. If you’re a health freak in terms of quality ingredients. Buffalo-style wings are good for you not so much if you’re a health freak in terms of

In fact, there’s no catch—you just pay for your wings by the dozen and eat as many as you want. If you’re feeling a little less ravenous, then Fat Cat also offers half-orders at a lower price. But if your stomach is rumbling with hunger and you’re in need of a good, chicken-wing fix, then you’d better get to Fat Cat Pizza. For those who are just about to grab a slice of pizza or opt for something low fat, Fat Cat has got you covered.

The pizza is good too. Fat Cat makes their pizza dough locally and uses only high-quality ingredients in their pie. They’re not able to boast that they make the best–the best maybe never even existed. But they’re close enough, and if you’re looking for something that tastes good without eating the earth, then Fat Cat Pizza is your go-to place.

Pros Cons great wings, good pizza; Great wings, good pizza;

The Fat Cat Pizza team is composed of chefs and staff that are committed to excellence. The mastermind behind their Buffalo sauce is none other than a very famous chef and restaurateur who has his own project at the heart of a chain-restaurant in which he owns. And Russell Jerkins’ signature Buffalo sauce can be found on every Fat Cat Pizza wing, making them truly one step above the competition.

Pros Cons large portions, excellent service; Large portions, excellent service;

Fat Cat Pizza is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in New York City. Located in Forest Hills and Long Island City–two areas where foodies flock to find taste and quality–the Fat Cat team takes great pride in the quality of their ingredients and approach to cooking.

Pros Cons good taste, great atmosphere; Good taste, great atmosphere;

The restaurant has a laid-back and casual atmosphere. While the area itself is not by any means upscale, the restaurant is in an excellent location. If you’re looking for an authentic New York City Italian taste but with a more laid-back feel to it, then Fat Cat Pizza is your go-to place.

Pros Cons good food, great service; Good food, great service;

If you’re looking for a place where you can get great tasting food at a reasonable price and without the pretentiousness of upscale restaurants, then Fat Cat Pizza should be your first choice.

The restaurant has a very relaxed atmosphere and the staff is as well. But what makes this place truly exceptional is their menu.

Pros Cons good food at reasonable prices; Good food at reasonable prices;

If you’re looking for an authentic New York experience while enjoying some of the best pizza, wings, and other Italian fare that the city has to offer, then Fat Cat Pizza is a place you won’t want to miss.

And no matter where it is located in the city—Queens or Brooklyn—Fat Cat Pizza is definitely worth your time.

While the name Fat Cat Pizza may sound like some kind of gimmick, or a gimmick that has been around for a while, you’ll be surprised to learn that it’s not. As mentioned above, the Fat Cat team is make up of chefs and staff who are committ to quality ingredients and top-notch service.

And according to what customers say, their pizza crust is by far some of the best in Queens or Brooklyn. It’s served fresh, with perfectly melt cheese and a choice of toppings that always gives guests a variety of tastes and textures without overloading the pizza with too much stuff. And the prices at which their pizzas are offer are very reasonable, especially when you take into account the quality you’re getting in return.

But Fat Cat Pizza is not only about great tasting food; it’s also about great service. During your visit, you’ll surely be treated like royalty. The staff is quite friendly and will be more than happy to answer any of your questions and will go out of their way to make sure that you’re completely satisfied.

Besides the fact that Fat Cat Pizza is some of the best pizza, wings, and other Italian fare you’ll find, the food is great for people on a diet.

conclusion : Fat Cat Pizza is one of the most popular pizzerias in New York. It’s really two restaurants in one, with two separate menus. Fat Cat Pizza offers a full menu of excellent Italian food as well as Buffalo-style wings.

In addition to this, Fat Cat Pizza is known for their excellent service and reasonable prices. The food is excellent and the staff are very friendly. You will certainly enjoy your visit.

– https://easylistings.com/fat-cat-pizza/

– www.treatyourselfny.com

As you can see by reading Fat Cat Pizza’s reviews, it’s a great place to have a meal with friends or family. If you live far away, it would be worth the drive to get there and eat their great food in person.

Day: September 7, 2022

How This Disability Nonprofit Has Changed the Lives of Those in the Disability Community in 2022

Can a high school student make a difference for the disabled community?

2022 marks a year of unprecedented growth for the Next Steps Programs

Forging community connections to bring lasting change

How Primum Law Group is Helping International Tech Companies and Startups with Expansion

Practicing international law

Benefits of a multicultural background

Launching Primum Law Group

The Best Fat Cat Pizza and Why They’re Worth Your Buck

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Legal

News Variety

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