ELBERTA - Deena McMullen with the Elberta Co-Op recently received awards from Agri-AFC for Seed Largest Percent Increase and Pro Products Volume. McMullen has a strong background in the horticultural industry, with multiple degrees and 30 plus years of experience. She’s been with the Elberta Co-Op for over 13 years, where she manages the Garden Center (otherwise known as the area where Jolene the pig lives!)

“I feel privileged to work for a company that offers so many things to so many people, and especially our hardworking farmers,” said McMullen. “They deserve so much of our credit. Also the management and staff here at the Co-Op. William Carlew [store manager] allows me to get out here and go after the sale, he gives me a lot of latitude.”

The Garden Center at the Co-Op is full-service, offering ornamental vegetables and annuals. From winter to spring, the section is always stocked. You can also find fertilizers, soil amendments, and, more than just products, advice and recommendations from professionals. Those at the Co-Op are no strangers to lending a helping hand, be it to customers or to the community.

“I feel really honored to work for a company that is as community-minded as this one, we do so much outreach for the community,” McMullen said. “If I didn’t know it before, I knew it after Hurricane Sally and what we were able to accomplish. We were one of the businesses that never closed, we were here and working when the rain hadn’t even stopped yet. We managed to serve hot meals to people in need.”

For more information on the Elberta Co-Op, visit www.elbertacoop.com, give them a call at 251- 986-8104, or stop by at 13320 County Road 83.