By OMER GILLHAM World Staff Writer PICHER -- Susie Stone's business is on shaky ground in more ways than one. Stone is one of several business owners who applied for the voluntary buyout of undermined properties in the Tar Creek Superfund site. Currently, the first phase of a $20 million buyout is under way for families and individuals. Many Tar Creek businesses qualify for the buyout because they are situated above deteriorating lead mines as well. Others have been adversely affected by plummeting sales connected to a declining population in Picher and Cardin. With limited funds available, the relocation committee has prioritized the families and businesses being bought out first. Read more... Posted at 11/20/2006 09:47:00 AM