From: Market Manager

To: Jamerson, Denise

Cc: Lauren Volpp; Gardner, Naima J
Subject: Re: SW Reports
Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2023 8:38:53 AM

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Good morning Denise,

Yes, that works for me. Will we meet on zoom or google meet?
With gratitude,
People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable inclusiveness
in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a main objective.
We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Wed, Aug 16, 2023 at 12:58 AM Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]> wrote:

Lauren,

There is availability to meet and go over the SW quarterly reports on Friday 8/18 from 10-
11 am est. Would this time work for you?

Best

Denise Jamerson

From: Lauren Volpp <[email protected]>

Sent: Friday, August 4, 2023 3:10 PM
To: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>
Cc: Market Manager <[email protected]>; Gardner, Naima J
<[email protected]>
Subject: Re: SW Reports

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Happy August!
I have availability Monday August 8th, and the following week Tuesday/ Thursday from 11
am until 1pm. Please use the calendly link to schedule a time to
meet. https://calendly.com/peoplesmarketmanager/cooperate

Please see the Progress Report attached.

With gratitude,

Lauren

On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 11:59 AM Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]> wrote:

Greetings,

Here are some available times this week to setup a meeting to review and discuss your
LFPA 2 Procurement and Deliverables report.

Thurs. July 27th 10am - 12 pm est. or Friday July 28th 1pm – 4pm est.

Best,

Denise Jamerson

LFPA Program Manager

[email protected]
From: Market Manager
To: Gardner, Naima J
Subject: Re: Expense Report and Invoices for 2nd Distribution
Date: Thursday, September 28, 2023 8:29:20 AM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png
image002.png

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima,
There has not been a folder set up, to my knowledge, to put all the documents for the
Expense Report. Please Advise.
With gratitude,
People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable inclusiveness
in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a main objective.
We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Tue, Aug 22, 2023 at 12:21 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hi there,

Thanks for sending this along – Denise is working on setting up a Google folder and will let
you know when it is ready to go. Once we review all the supporting documentation from the
expense report, we will let you know if we have any questions.

Thank you!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov
Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Monday, August 21, 2023 2:49 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>; Jamerson, Denise
<[email protected]>
Subject: Expense Report and Invoices for 2nd Distribution

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Happy Monday to you both,

Thank you for the short meeting on Friday to review what is required for the next
distribution of LFPA funds.

Please see the attached Year 1 expense report.

Has there been a folder made? We are working to compile the invoices for the past 6 months
and would benefit with a space to put all of this information. Is this something we need to
create and share with you?

Is there a timeline for review and approval in order to release the funds?

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a
main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.
From: Market Manager
To: Gardner, Naima J
Subject: Re: Question: Allowable Expenses
Date: Friday, September 8, 2023 2:21:49 PM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png
image002.png

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Happy Friday Naima,

Thank you for the clarification. These costs will be included in the expense sheet for YEAR 1
but not for YEAR 2. I have shared this limitation with the producers and farmers.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable inclusiveness
in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a main objective.
We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Sep 8, 2023 at 12:34 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello there,

Please accept my apologies for my long response time – I was out of the office for a bit at
the end of last month and it has taken me a long time to catch up!

I think that ideally this type of labor cost should be built into the price of the product being
purchased – so maybe that’s how we can structure it moving forward. If this has already
been expensed, I think it’s okay – but for future payments can you try to either have the
farmer build this cost into the price of the product OR add an additional amount to the wage
of the worker to cover transportation?

Let Denise or I know if you have any additional questions.

Thanks!
Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Monday, August 28, 2023 8:00 AM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Subject: Question: Allowable Expenses

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Happy Monday Naima,

Thank you for reviewing the expense tracking and answering my questions. Would you
please clarify.

Our farmers had workers who needed transportation to their farms, to and from their homes
5 days a week.

Would their travel to the farm and back home be considered an allowable expense for this
grant?
Lastly, we are continuing to close the books for august and will send a Final version of the
expense tracking sheet with all of the august data on Friday, September 1st.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a
main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.
From: Market Manager
To: Gardner, Naima J
Cc: [email protected]; Jamerson, Denise; Bouza, Lindsey; [email protected]; Wilson,
Legita R
Subject: Re: Expectations for Disbursement
Date: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 1:44:48 PM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Good afternoon Naima and Denise,

Thank you for compiling information to create an updated spreadsheet. We have bookkeeping
and accounting services with Quickbooks that assist with reconciliation and tax preparation.
Will there be additional information needed in preparation for our meeting on Friday,
February 2nd?

With gratitude,
People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable inclusiveness
in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a main objective.
We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Jan 19, 2024 at 11:47 AM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,

I just wanted to provide an update. Denise and I met with Isis and Legita yesterday and are
working with them to compare records, etc. I am working on compiling an updated
spreadsheet to show where some inconsistencies are still concerning us. To help with that
process, Denise will be reaching out directly to the producers/farmers/vendors that appeared
on your expense sheet to confirm records from both Tracks 1 & 2.

If you are working with a CPA and would like to connect us directly with them, that would
be helpful as we move through this process. Are you paying this CPA to perform an audit?
If not, what service have you hired them to perform? More information about this would be
helpful and appreciated.

Thank you,
Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system.

From: Gardner, Naima J

Sent: Thursday, January 18, 2024 10:53 AM
To: Market Manager <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected]; Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Bouza,
Lindsey <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Expectations for Disbursement

Hello,

We are meeting internally today and will be in touch to set up a meeting.

Thank you,

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473
[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Thursday, January 18, 2024 10:38 AM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected]; Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Bouza,
Lindsey <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Expectations for Disbursement

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Lindsey, Naima and Denise,

Thank you for the continued collaboration.

We are working with a CPA for reconciliation of our accounts to ensure accuracy of our
vendor payments. Please share any documentation that we can compile in order to provide
transparency and clarity. Where would you like the documentation shared/stored?

People's Cooperative Market is committed to restorative justice and to the process of

mediation. Our mission values and goals are signed by our vendors and producers which
include conflict resolution. (see attachment)

Is there a timeline for when a meeting will be scheduled?

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a
main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Jan 12, 2024 at 9:26 PM Market Manager <[email protected]>

wrote:

Good evening Naima,

Thank you for sharing the feedback and where we are in the process.

We have reached out to Bedford collab about returning the funds. However, the letter
does state that the funding has not been spent. How can we demonstrate that the money
will been returned?

We have reached out to Isis with Track # 1 to discuss any clarifications that we can add to
unraveling the information.

We are happy to discuss any unpaid vendors or concerns about reporting early next week.

Please let us know any documentation needed in order to move forward and when we can
meet with you and your supervisor.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is
a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Jan 12, 2024 at 9:09 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hi Lauren and Yvonne,

Responding to you both here since you’ve reached out to me about next steps. Here is
where we are as of today:

I have received the additional supporting documentation that I requested during

our last meeting. Thank you for compiling that. We still have a few things that
are unresolved, that the documents do not account for.

We have been contacted by and provided documentation from several of

the producers in your region that reveal discrepancies between what you
have reported and what they have been compensated for. Some of them
have provided written accounts and documentation, but others are
incredibly fearful of backlash/retribution if they put their experiences in
writing. This is very concerning to me.
We have also had conversations with our Track 1 counterparts with
concerns about PCM’s engagement with their process. It seems that there is
some overlap between Track 1 and Track 2 that none of us quite
understand. It has been incredibly difficult and time-consuming to try to
unravel that – and that effort is ongoing.
I appreciate you getting an updated letter from Bedford Collab, however,
the letter still does not explicitly state that the $30,000 dollars has not been
spent. My guidance at this point is that Bedford Collab should return the
funds to People’s Market until they have actual product to sell into Track 2.
It is unjustifiable for them to be holding that sum of money if there are still
vendors that have not been paid for their product that they have already
provided. If the funds have been spent at all, we need a full accounting for
how they have been spent, since you have confirmed that no product has
yet been received from Bedford Collab.

At this point, I am going to need to ask for help from some of my internal colleagues
for guidance on how to move forward. The sheer volume of documentation that needs
to be reviewed is beyond my capacity, and candidly, I don’t quite know what to do
next. I will be consulting with my supervisor and other internal colleagues early next
week. I understand that you are frustrated, but I cannot authorize the release of any
additional funds unless these issues are fully resolved – it would be a breach of my
responsibility to manage these funds in alignment with our cooperative agreement with
USDA.

I have included my supervisor here so that she is abreast of the situation. You can direct
any inquiries to myself, Denise, or Lindsey. We will be in touch early next week once
we have received guidance from our internal colleagues.

Thank you.

In gratitude,

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not
the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or
attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and
attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Friday, January 12, 2024 4:42 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Expectations for Disbursement

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments

or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima,

Thank you for getting back to me.

We are planning for a Martin Luther King Jr birthday celebration and wanted to make
sure funding was on the way.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these
values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice
work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art,
and education.

On Thu, Jan 11, 2024 at 1:34 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>

wrote:

Hi Lauren,

I got your voicemail – I am in back-to-back meetings all day today. Denise and I are
meeting in-person tomorrow for a work session – we will be reviewing your
materials and will be back in touch with you tomorrow afternoon.

Thank you for your patience!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are
not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or
attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and
attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Wednesday, January 10, 2024 12:22 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Expectations for Disbursement

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima,

Here is a list of the contract totals for Year 1:

Los Alverez Cooper: $8,029.50

Outlier Farm: $30,738.92

Sobre mesa Farm: $14,551.09

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these
values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice
work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art,
and education.

On Wed, Jan 10, 2024 at 11:44 AM Market Manager

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hello again Naima,

Please see the attached updated letter from Bedford Collab.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who
share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space
for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure
access to local food, art, and education.

On Thu, Jan 4, 2024 at 7:42 PM Market Manager

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hey Naima,

Hope you had a great holiday break. Thank you for the feedback.

1. Bivi's letter is in the folder for Year 1

2. Access has been granted for the Year 2 folder with the Q4 report
Again, Bedford Collab has not spent the money as they are waiting for the
building to be completed. In the letter, Bedford Collab shared the plan to grow
food in the hydroponic tower.

Yes, I can request another letter from Bedford Collab. But, I will ask them to
confirm the plan "to fulfill the full contract amount by purchasing local products
from qualifying producers between now and 9/30/24".

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who
share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create
space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and
ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Wed, Jan 3, 2024 at 8:55 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>

wrote:

Hi Lauren,

Thank you for your patience – I was out of the office until yesterday. Thank
you for providing the additional documentation. I see the letter from Maru
confirming local ingredients, but not from Bivi’s – can you point me in the
right direction for that one?

I appreciate the letter from Bedford Collab confirming that the LFPA funds
were not spent on infrastructure, but, I still need to understand how the funds
were spent. Can you provide information on how LFPA funds were spent by
Bedford Collab? And if they have not been spent at all but they plan to fulfill
the full contract amount by purchasing local products from qualifying
producers between now and 9/30/24, can you have them put that in writing
and send that to me?
I also don’t see a “Year 2” folder with the Q4 report – is it possible that you
didn’t share that with me yet? If I have overlooked it, I apologize, just let me
know where to look.

Thank you!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If

you are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward
the message or attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase
the message and attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Tuesday, December 26, 2023 6:11 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Expectations for Disbursement

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email.
****

Happy holiday season Naima,

Thank you for the opportunity to provide documentation:

Please see the Year 1 Documentation folder in the drive for

1. Prepared Food items Letters of Confirmation of local ingredients

2. Letter of confirmation from Bedford Collab

Please see the Year 2 Documentation folder in the drive for

3. Quarter 4 report

If needed, please let us know a time to meet to discuss distribution.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all
who share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism,
create space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate
liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

People's market letter

On Mon, Dec 18, 2023 at 9:10 AM Gardner, Naima J

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hi Lauren,

Confirming that we are on the same page for the items listed below.
On the contract fulfillment, I am not looking for a specific percentage, I just
want to know how much has actually been fulfilled to date.

Thanks!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential.

If you are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not
forward the message or attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment;
and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system.

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Friday, December 15, 2023 4:49 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>; Jamerson, Denise
<[email protected]>
Subject: Expectations for Disbursement

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected
email. ****

Hey Naima and Denise,

Thank you for the clarification on reconciling the Year 1 expenses and
moving forward with Year 2. We appreciate the growth mindset!

The contract has given our farmers until September 2024. How much of
each contract needs to be fulfilled for you to feel comfortable moving
forward? 50%?

Below are the expected documentation for the release of funds:

1. Prepared Food items Letter of Confirmation of local ingredients

2. Letter of confirmation from Bedford Collab

3. Quarter 4 report

Please confirm these expectations.

With gratitude,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for
all who share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-
racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity,
cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.
From: Market Manager
To: Gardner, Naima J
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract
Date: Tuesday, April 2, 2024 8:47:33 AM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Good morning Naima,

Can you provide an update on the invoice? We can schedule a final meeting with you next
week. What days and times work best for you?

Thank you,
People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable inclusiveness
in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a main objective.
We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Wed, Mar 20, 2024 at 9:39 AM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Good morning,

Would you like for us to move forward processing the final invoice according to the formula
described below? Would you like me to schedule a meeting for next week during one of our
available times (they are filling up fast)? Please advise.

In gratitude,

Naima Gardner, MPH | Interim Director

Division of Maternal and Child Health

SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not have
to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system

From: Gardner, Naima J

Sent: Monday, March 18, 2024 2:25 PM
To: Market Manager <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Bouza, Lindsey <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: IDOH Contract

Good afternoon,

Yes, the $55,340.84 invoice has been submitted.

Here is what we have decided for the ED and VCC wages:

We will honor the hours submitted, but only at the hourly rate that was reflected in the
submitted and approved grant application. In the application, the ED was listed at $55k
annually, and the VCC at $45k annually.
For ED: at $55k annually (estimating 2,080 hours per year), that would make the
hourly rate $26.44/hour. Based on your invoice, the ED worked 744 hours between
October and February. That would make the total that we will approve for the ED
$19,671.36.
For VCC: at $45k annually (estimating 2,080 hours per year), that would make the
hourly rate $21.63/hour. Based on your invoice, the VCC worked 442 hours between
 October and February. That would make the total that we will approve for the VCC
$9,560.46.
We will approve $29,231.82 for wages between October and February. If you don’t
have any questions, I will have Alohna process the invoice.
This will be the final payment and after it has been received by PCM, the contract will
be terminated.

If you would like to meet, here is our availability for next week:

Monday 3/25 12pm or 3pm

Tuesday 3/26 11am
Wednesday 3/27 1pm-3pm
Thursday 3/28 9am

Let me know what time you prefer and I can schedule a meeting.

In gratitude,

Naima Gardner, MPH | Interim Director

Division of Maternal and Child Health

SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not have
to respond outside your working hours.
Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not the
intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3)
do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your system

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Monday, March 18, 2024 8:08 AM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima and Denise,

Do you have availability the following week for a meeting? March 25th-29th?

Has the Operations Manager submitted the final invoice for People’s Market for?

Thank you,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is a
main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 2:22 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,
Yes, we can schedule a final meeting – We can do next Thursday at 9am or 12pm, or Friday at
2:30pm. Let me know which time you prefer.

We will let you know as soon as a determination has been made about wages.

In gratitude,

Naima Gardner, MPH | Interim Director

Division of Maternal and Child Health

SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not
have to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not
the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or
attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment
from your system

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Friday, March 15, 2024 2:03 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or

click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Denise and Naima,

Is there an update on payment for the wages from October 2023 until February 15th,
2024?

In a previous email, there was mention of a final meeting. When can we schedule a
meeting?

Thank you,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these values is
a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create
meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Mon, Mar 11, 2024 at 1:32 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,

Denise and I will discuss and be back in touch.

Thanks!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not have to
respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you are not
the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the message or
attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and
attachment from your system

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Monday, March 11, 2024 1:17 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments

or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima,

49% of the food purchases between October 2023 and February 2024 equals
$27,117.01. Is this the reasonable cost for wages mentioned in the earlier email?

An updated invoice has been attached.

In a previous email, there was mention of a final meeting. When can we schedule a
meeting?

Thank you,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these
values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice
work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art,
and education.

On Fri, Mar 8, 2024 at 8:08 AM Market Manager

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Naima,

Thank you for tasking the operations manager to prepare and submit the final invoice
for food costs totalling $55,340.84. How will we be notified when the invoice has
been scheduled for payment?

In your previous email, there was a statement agreeing to compensate for wages for
both positions. Please explain and provide more details about what you mean by a
reasonable estimation. For example, 65% of the invoiced amount?

Has the decision been made that IDOH are unwilling to compensate any wages from
October 2023 until February 2024?

Thank you,
People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for equitable
inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who share these
values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice
work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art,
and education.

On Thu, Mar 7, 2024 at 10:43 AM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>

wrote:

Good morning,

I have asked our Operations Manager to prepare and submit a final invoice for People’s
Market for $55,340.84. It is our understanding that this will cover all outstanding funds
owed to farmers. Hopefully you should see a deposit within a few weeks (but we have
been running long on invoicing recently).

We cannot approve the invoice for wages for the Executive Director and Value Chain
Coordinator. We do not believe that this reflects a reasonable estimation of the time
spent on this project between October and February. It is also in violation of our
expectation that the predominance of funds (51% at a minimum) be spent on the direct
purchase of food. It would not be justifiable for us to approve this level of funding
support for two positions – it would be unfair and inequitable to the other LFPA regions.

We do thank you for your work on this project, and we wish you the best.

In gratitude,

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not
have to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you
are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the
message or attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the
message and attachment from your system

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Wednesday, March 6, 2024 2:24 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Wilson, Legita R
<[email protected]>; Isis Villegas Eynon <[email protected]>;
Bouza, Lindsey <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email. ****

Hello Naima,

When can you provide an update and more details about the review process and
disbursement of the funds? Do you require more information or documentation?

Thank you,

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who
share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create space
for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure
access to local food, art, and education.

On Fri, Mar 1, 2024 at 1:15 PM Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>

wrote:

All,

This is under review and we will be in touch as soon as possible.

Thank you.

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours. You do not
have to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be confidential. If you
are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me immediately; 2) do not forward the
message or attachment; 3) do not print the message or attachment; and 4) erase the
message and attachment from your system
From: Market Manager <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, February 26, 2024 4:07 PM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Wilson, Legita R
<[email protected]>; Isis Villegas Eynon <[email protected]>;
Bouza, Lindsey <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email.
****

Hello IDOH LFPA team,

The invoices for wages from October 1, 2023- February 15, 2024 are linked
below:

1. ED LFPA Wages

2. VCP LFPA Wages

The reimbursement total is: $63,845.00

What is the timeline for reimbursement? What additional documentation is

needed?

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all who
share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism, create
space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and
ensure access to local food, art, and education.
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 8:00 AM Market Manager
<[email protected]> wrote:

Hello IDOH LFPA team,

Disregard and delete the attached excel workbook in the previous email, it has
errors. Instead use the google sheet linked
here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1lhMX6AnzEcljJ46qRSHUeME
_MqzdQTLt/edit?
usp=drive_link&ouid=112260759406746659060&rtpof=true&sd=true

The total reimbursement amount is accurate: $55,340.84

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for all
who share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-racism,
create space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity, cultivate
liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 1:18 PM Market Manager

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Naima,

Yes, the amount is correct.

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations for
equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of belonging for
all who share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards intersectional anti-
racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful collaborations, build equity,
cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and education.

On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 11:11 AM Gardner, Naima J

<[email protected]> wrote:

Hello,

Thank you for this documentation. Yes, we will reimburse for wages that
are reasonable and aligned with the LFPA project.

Can I clarify based on your expense sheet – is the total amount you are
requesting reimbursement for $55,340.84? If so, I will have Alohna work
on creating an invoice and we can get it submitted pretty quickly.

Please confirm this amount.

Thank you!

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov
I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office hours.
You do not have to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be

confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me
immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3) do not print the
message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your
system

From: Market Manager <[email protected]>

Sent: Tuesday, February 20, 2024 9:27 AM
To: Gardner, Naima J <[email protected]>
Cc: Jamerson, Denise <[email protected]>; Wilson, Legita R
<[email protected]>; Isis Villegas Eynon
<[email protected]>; Bouza, Lindsey
<[email protected]>
Subject: Re: IDOH Contract

**** This is an EXTERNAL email. Exercise caution. DO NOT open

attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected
email. ****

Hello IDOH LFPA team,

Thank you for the update.

What is the timeline for reimbursement? What additional documentation

is needed?

See attached expense sheet. See drive folder link below.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/18VS1dpjyDjJqq-
bwYGaj4ZLnwNUzFF_r?usp=drive_link
Will IDOH reimburse for contract wages from (10/1/2023) through
(2/15/2024)?

People's Cooperative Market Management Team

We envision a market community driven by a set of values that reflect the highest aspirations
for equitable inclusiveness in significant and meaningful ways. Cultivating a sense of
belonging for all who share these values is a main objective. We strive to work towards
intersectional anti-racism, create space for food justice work, create meaningful
collaborations, build equity, cultivate liberation, and ensure access to local food, art, and
education.

On Thu, Feb 15, 2024 at 2:49 PM Gardner, Naima J

<[email protected]> wrote:

Dear People’s Cooperative Market Leadership Team,

After careful deliberation between Indiana LFPA Tracks 1 and 2

leadership, we have determined that the Indiana Department of Health
cannot move forward with PCM as the lead organization for the
Southwest Region LFPA Track 2 project. Track 1 (via Fresh Connect)
will also be dissolving future contractual relationships with PCM for
Years 2 and 3 of LFPA in Indiana. That means that the current Track 2
contract with PCM will be dissolved, and there will be no possibility of
entering into an MOU through Track 1.

While we appreciate the efforts by PCM leadership to provide

documentation and resolve discrepancies, unfortunately, there are far
too many outstanding inconsistencies for the IDOH to feel comfortable
moving forward with this project. Not only has there been ample
evidence of the mismanagement of funds, it has also become clear that
PCM has lost the trust and confidence of local farmers/producers to
effectively implement this project.

For the Track 2 project, we will issue one final disbursement of funds
to account for costs of food purchased between the beginning of year 2
(10/1/2023) and today (2/15/2024). We will require documentation of
these expenses in advance of reimbursement.

We thank you for the work that you have done to support your
community, and we wish you the best. We are happy to schedule a
meeting to discuss the final disbursement, but this decision is final.

With warm regards,

Naima Gardner-Rice

Legita Wilson

Denise Jamerson

Isis Villegas Eynon

Naima Gardner-Rice, MPH | SNAP-Ed and Nutrition Programs

Director

Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity

2 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

office: 317-234-3498 • mobile: 317-517-4460 • fax: 317-234-6473

[email protected]

health.in.gov

I sometimes send emails and messages outside the normal office

hours. You do not have to respond outside your working hours.

Confidentiality Statement: This message and any attachments may be

confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please 1) notify me
immediately; 2) do not forward the message or attachment; 3) do not print the
message or attachment; and 4) erase the message and attachment from your
system