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El Dorado Manufacturer Named Arkansas Business of the Year

Published

1 month ago

March 11, 2025

EL DORADO – For a majority of American industries, the COVID-19 Pandemic changed everything. Many of the stories say, those changes were for the worse. Bottle-necked supply chains, transportation issues, accounting quagmires, the list of reasons businesses and entire industries failed during the Pandemic and subsequent shut downs is immense.

There’s a Knock at the Door!

For Walter Tyson & Stephen Kelley, the worldwide pandemic presented its issues but while listening past the excuses and reasons to fail, they heard a knock at the door. Answering that knock, they met a new friend named Opportunity. Prior to COVID, the 40 year old pipe manufacturing company had transitioned into an operation making high quality polyethylene drums, pails, feeders and containers for industrial products. For example, containers to hold things like grease, lubricants, oil and cleaning solutions. However, the majority of that market was being controlled by a small handful of players globally. When those mega-suppliers could not meet the demands still being placed on the market from companies like Exxon-Mobil, Shell Lubricants, and others; that’s when the phone rang at the El Dorado, Arkansas based PCI, Polyethylene Containers Inc. “We had an opportunity to begin supplying containers to companies that one or two suppliers had a stranglehold on for years.” Walter Tyson, CEO of PCI said. “We were signing agreements to provide containers that we didn’t have the capacity to turn immediately.” Stephen Kelley, Chief Financial Officer said in the same interview. “We had robotic machines coming over on a ship and our deadlines were closing quickly.” Kelley continued. Both Tyson and Kelley said they could not have been successful without employees who took on the load and new robotics.

“It costs more to do the right thing!”

During a tour of the 300,000+ square foot facility, it became obvious, every one of the nearly 150 employees we encountered had a smile on their face. Unusual, if you buy-in to what the talking heads and business pundits say. People who claim that industry employers are exploiting their employees for little pay, long hours and few benefits, would do themselves a favor with a quick visit to PCI. During our visit, we had the opportunity to visit with an employee. She was not upper management, she was not part of the family, but she was an absolute cheer-leader for the company and what they do. It is clear, PCI employees take great pride in being on a team with their employer. Of course, a contributing factor could be that they each share in a part of the profits. Productivity, eliminating waste, following safety protocols all means more dollars in their pocket every month! 100% of the remaining profits (left over after employee sharing) are reinvested back into technological investments in the company. PCI has a stated vision of becoming, “The World’s Most Customer Focused Container Company” and the employees at PCI seem to take that vision seriously. Another reason could be, the employees know they are producing some of North America’s only containers made up of post-consumer recycled material, leaving a mark of responsible environmental management and future sustainability. “Look, it costs more (money) to do the right thing. But that is simply who we are!” Kelley said.

“Underrated”

Giving remarks during the acceptance speech after being named Business of the Year by Arkansas Business, Tyson said, “It’s a struggle, you know, you guys who are out there in the industry understand. But, it’s all about the people. And you know, Stephen and I, we are working. But our job is more about capital allocation, where the money is going to be spent. But Mark Childs (Senior Vice President) is the one who runs the business for us and he grinds every day.” Tyson went on to say that representing South Arkansas was a point of pride for his team. “You know, South Arkansas, a little underrated. I mean all of these Little Rock, Springdale, Fayetteville companies, Northwest Arkansas gets all the credit for growth in the state’s business. But we are still working, we are still doing it.” His speech was then interrupted by raucous applause, cheers and whistles from the crowd.

What’s Different About PCI and What’s Next?

PCI prides itself on their faith based values. They are also very quick to point out they are a family run business and veteran owned. The company says, “PCI is a veteran-owned, family-run business that brings together some of the world’s foremost specialists in container technology and materials handling. Our independence means that we can commit time and resources to developing advanced solutions that keep us—and you—leading, not following. We actively pursue research, development, testing and learning to seek out new materials, processes, and products to serve you better.” Tyson said the company has sustained an 84% growth year over year in an industry that averages less than 2%. Tyson also said, although they are only in the first quarter of this year, they have procured contracts which guarantees them no less than 73% growth for this year.

CONGRATULATIONS TO PCI on a well deserved reward. If you would like to see Tyson’s acceptance speech, you can find it here.

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Storm Potential Back For South Arkansas Early Next Week

Published

12 hours ago

April 24, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO – The latest eight-day outlook from the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center shows multiple rounds of potential severe weather across the central United States, with South Arkansas on alert early next week.

According to the forecast issued early Thursday morning, South Arkansas may be impacted by severe storms beginning Monday, April 28, when the region is included in an “Enhanced Risk” area. This designation — a Level 3 out of 5 — signals the potential for numerous severe storms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and possibly tornadoes.

On Tuesday, April 29, the threat shifts slightly east but continues to encompass portions of Arkansas, where the area falls under a “Slight Risk” (Level 2). These forecasts suggest a continued chance for scattered strong storms, though coverage and intensity may be slightly lower than Monday’s potential outbreak.

Leading into the weekend, the outlooks for Thursday (April 24) through Saturday (April 26) show marginal to slight risks in other parts of the central U.S., with little direct impact expected in South Arkansas. Sunday, April 27, shows no organized severe risk across the nation, and Wednesday and Thursday of next week (April 30 and May 1) are currently labeled as “Predictability Too Low.”

Meteorologists emphasize that the outlook for Monday and Tuesday is still subject to change as more data becomes available. Residents across Union, Ouachita, and surrounding counties are encouraged to stay weather-aware and review severe weather safety plans now.

The National Weather Service in Little Rock will continue to provide updates through the weekend as the forecast becomes more refined.

For the latest information follow South Arkansas Now for updates.

News

New Camden Facility Boosts U.S. Army’s 155mm Artillery Production Capacity

Published

13 hours ago

April 24, 2025

Staff Reports

Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll tours the newly opened Load, Assemble, and Pack (LAP) facility in Camden, AR, on April 22, 2025. The U.S. Army and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems opened the facility to manufacture 155 mm high explosive artillery projectiles reinforcing the Army’s strategic effort to expand production capacity, restore the defense industrial base, and strengthen deterrence through sustained investment in readiness. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Mejia)

CAMDEN – The U.S. Army and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems officially opened a new Load, Assemble, and Pack (LAP) facility for 155 mm high explosive artillery projectiles on April 22 in Camden, marking a major step in modernizing the nation’s munitions production capabilities.

The new facility features two advanced LAP lines designed to produce up to 50,000 completed artillery projectiles per month when fully operational. This effort is part of the Army’s broader initiative to increase monthly production of 155 mm rounds to 100,000 and restore the strength of the U.S. defense industrial base.

Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll emphasized the importance of the facility during the opening. “The Army must transform and get war-winning capabilities into the hands of Soldiers now,” Driscoll said. “This facility is one of several investments to reinforce our industrial base and deliver relevant munitions at speed and scale.”

LAP facilities are the final step in artillery production, where metal shells are filled with explosives, assembled with fuzes and components, and packed for shipment. The Camden site is equipped with digital quality control systems, advanced automation, and a next-generation air-cooling process that reduces water consumption compared to traditional methods.

Army leaders said the opening reflects a coordinated push to meet global munitions demand, driven in part by lessons from recent conflicts and increased readiness efforts.

“Today is the result of a robust partnership between industry and government at all levels,” said Pat Mason, senior Army acquisition official. “We moved quickly to make this happen.”

The Camden plant stands as a key asset in the Army’s 21st-century strategy to support national defense and allied operations through sustained investment in advanced manufacturing.

News

Community Invited to Innovation-Focused “Meet & Greet” at SouthArk Library

Published

13 hours ago

April 24, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO, Ark. – Community members, students, and entrepreneurs are invited to a special “Meet & Greet” event on Monday, April 28, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Mahony Family Library on the South Arkansas College West Campus in El Dorado.

Hosted by ARise Arkansas, in collaboration with South Arkansas College and the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), the event is designed to spotlight programs and organizations that support innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth across the region.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with representatives from several key organizations, including:

South Arkansas College
Lithium Regional Innovation Cluster (LRIC)
ARise Arkansas
El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce
Arkansas Women’s Business Center at Winrock International
Southern Arkansas University ASBTDC

“This event is all about connecting people and ideas,” organizers said. “Whether you’re a student, a startup founder, or just curious about what’s happening in the local innovation scene, this is a great place to start.”

The event is free and open to the public. Community leaders hope it will foster new partnerships and raise awareness about the wide range of resources available to support business development in Union County and beyond.

For more information, visit SouthArk.edu or contact the Chamber of Commerce.

News

SAU social work students and faculty present at national conference

Published

13 hours ago

April 24, 2025

Staff Reports

MAGNOLIA – SAU social work faculty and students attended the Arkansas National Association of Social Workers Conference (NASW) in Little Rock, AR, in March.

Five social work students presented independent research from their research methods course, taught by Dr. Deborah Wilson, Professor of Psychology. Posters presented were as follows: “Dating Violence Among College Students” by Tylaa Berry and Sah’Myah Holloway; “Inclusion Does not Have to Mean Division” by Noah Walker; “Social Media Use Among College Students” by Samuel Jonah Walker; and “Social Media and the Risk of Depression Among College Students” by Cassidy Jones.

Cassidy Jones, of Magnolia, AR, is a social work maj or on track to graduate in December. She won two awards at the conference: the Bachelor’s of Social Work (BSW) Public Policy Presentation Award and the BSW Best Overall Poster Presentation Award.

“Mrs. Ray and Dr. Wilson were very encouraging, giving me feedback on my work, sharing valuable resources, and even providing practice sessions,” Jones said. “I am truly grateful for their time.”

Cassidy Jones and Samuel Jonah Walker also presented alongside Mercedes Ray, Assistant Professor and Program Director of Social Work, in a concurrent workshop titled: “Out From Behind the Screen: Addressing the Challenges of Technology Among Adolescents and Young Adults”. In this workshop they spoke to other professionals in the field, highlighting current research and policy related to the need for better limits surrounding social media use in adolescents. They also helped in providing recommendations to address growing rates of anxiety and depression in young adults specifically connected to social media use.

Cassidy Jones presenting her research.

“We are so proud of our social work students and the way they represent SAU,” Ray said. “They spend a great deal of time over the course of two semesters to prepare for their presentations. Each student discusses current policy initiatives relevant to their research and makes recommendations as to how our profession should begin addressing concerns they’ve identified. Watching our students integrate all they’ve learned and talk about their ideas with others in the field is a very rewarding experience.”

According to the NASW website, the organization was founded in 1955 and is the “largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with more than 120,000 members. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.”

News

Chick-fil-A? Worst Kept Secret in South Arkansas

Published

1 day ago

April 23, 2025

Sandy Sanford

EL DORADO – The El Dorado City Council met in regular session Wednesday morning inside the Council Chambers of City Hall. Although the agenda was light, there were moments of extended speeches, and a question/answer session.

The Council started with the preliminary actions of prayer, the pledge and approving of minutes. Ward Four Alderman, Buddy McAdams was absent and Ward One Alderman, Jill Weinischke attended by phone. Mayor Paul Choate welcomed everyone, and gave a special welcome to the Government Class of West Side Christian School and their teacher, Cindy Miller. According to the Mayor, the class was on hand to, “observe City Government in action.”

Announcements

Mayor Choate said TCW would have a ground breaking in mid May, as they begin their work of bringing fiber optic internet to the city. Earlier this year, TCW announced they are investing $12 Million in construction in El Dorado, bringing Internet with speeds up to 8GB to the city. The Mayor said TCW plans to begin their construction in the Northwest Quadrant of the City.

The Council also heard reminders about the Prescription Drug Take Back event that is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th from 10 A.M. until 2 P.M. at Walmart in El Dorado. The event is designed to properly dispose of Over-The-Counter and Prescription medications that have expired or are no longer needed.

Ward Two Alderman, Judy Ward, reminded the Council about the upcoming National Day of Prayer and the plans to host a parallel event inside City Hall. The National Day of Prayer is scheduled for the 1st Thursday of May every year and happens to fall on May 1st this year. Ward said there would be a very short program with local ministers and the community. She invited all of the Council as well as anyone who wishes to attend.

The Mayor announced there are two meetings remaining for community input about the Master Parks Plan that is being worked on by local architect Michael Rogers and the El Dorado Parks and Playgrounds Commission. There will be a meeting Thursday April 24th at the Murmil Education Center and Tuesday April 29th at the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium. Both meetings begin at 5:30 P.M. and the Mayor said, “The meeting I attended lasted about an hour.”

Before the Council went on with other business, Ward Three Alderman Willie McGhee once again voiced his desire for more community input to be accepted should the El Dorado Wins, one-cent sales tax meet with the approval of El Dorado voters. The tax would replace the El Dorado Forward sales tax that is set to expire later this year. Early voting for registered voters in the City begins May 6th, with the Election to be held May 13th. During his speech Alderman McGhee said he was shocked to hear reports of a person impersonating a police officer in El Dorado and asked El Dorado Chief of Police, Ken Hickman, what had been done about it. The Chief acknowledged they did receive one report of someone in a dark colored vehicle that attempted to pull over a motorist in the city. “The allegation came in about a month ago and we investigated it that day, we followed up again that night and went as far as the trail would allow but there was no evidence of it.”

Chick-Fil-A?

The Mayor moved the Council on in the agenda and said, “We, El Dorado, are getting a new national chain chicken restaurant. Their plan is to build it at North West Avenue and 19th Street right behind Larry’s Pizza. However, there is a storm drain on that site that would have to be moved.” The Mayor then pointed the Council to their meeting packets where a number of maps were available for their view. According to the Mayor, the City owns a piece of property right next to Larry’s Pizza and the storm drain could be moved there. “That piece of property is 25 feet wide and 345 feet deep and was originally intended to be a city street should the need ever arise. I spoke with Mr. Edmonds (City Public Works Director Robert Edmonds) and he and I agree that we don’t believe a street will ever be needed there. So moving the drain to that location makes perfect sense.” The Mayor said the storm drain relocation would be done by the Arkansas Department of Transportation. Ward Two Alderman, Vance Williamson made the motion to approve and Ward Four Alderman, Dianne Hammond seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

After the meeting adjourned. An unnamed elected official was asked about the restaurant and was asked if it is Chick-Fil-A. That official said, “Well it’s the worst kept secret in South Arkansas but I still can’t say. But I can say this, Cows love this restaurant and encourage people to eat more chicken.” South Arkansas Now reached out to the media department of Chick-Fil-A but we have not received a reply by the time of publishing this article.

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