#WorkingItWednesday: Building a Brighter Future (and having fun doing it)

Oakland, California, long a hub for artists and musicians is now ranked as one of the top culinary destinations in the United States. Inspired by the city's ethnic diversity and foodie culture, restauranteurs are pouring into the numerous developing neighborhoods. Entrepreneurs Ann Thai and Loren Goodwin, both Oakland residents with backgrounds in food, hospitality and event planning are pursuing a passion project of bringing an indoor market, flower shop and butchery called Newberry Market & Deli to the city's Uptown neighborhood as the anchor tenant in the renovation of the historic Sears Building. Ann and Loren are poised to play a critical role in the revitalization of their hometown; the market will bring affordable, sustainable, locally sourced products to residents and visitors and create at least 200 new jobs in the process. Years of close friendship and a mutual passion for making bold career moves lend their partnership an easy, lighthearted energy that investors, partners and other stakeholders find refreshing in it's authenticity. #WorkingIt to make change on a large scale takes focus and commitment and, as this duo proves, a lot of heart.