---

There are few companies in the southern Oklahoma area to have survived in one piece for the last 100 years, expanded and made more of an impact to their primary service area than the Chickasaw Telephone Co.

With an austere beginning in an upstairs Lone Grove bedroom 100 years ago this month, the company has proven that with vision, leadership and courage, longevity and success will follow.

This newspaper joins with the entire Sulphur and southern Oklahoma area in congratulating the company's officers and staff as they celebrate their 100th anniversary this month.

Company owner Royce Gauntt, who was given the firm by his father, has been the leading force behind what has become a regional player in the telecommunications industry. It is with his leadership that the firm expanded their base of operations from a small telephone company serving just a few people on eight-party lines to one of the most successful firms in the state with tentacles stretching statewide.

The company has not only managed to survive, but has flourished and persevered during several major downturns in the telecommunications industry and during this latest nationwide recession.

Sulphur enjoys a great amount of success today because of the company's trust in the town and its people. This community would not be where it is today without Mr. Gauntt's vision and belief that small town firms can and do make a difference. They a very strong community supporter, continually using their equipment and staff to help worthy projects that benefit local and area people.
Just look at Sulphur's unemployment rate of just over four percent, among the top two or three in the state, and you can understand why this firm has had such a positive impact on the community and area. Dedication to their job, an uncanny ability to look forward in uncertain times and perseverance are the hallmarks of this company and for these reasons, we salute Mr. Gauntt, the board of directors and staff for a job well done.

And, it is our hope that this community will enjoy another 100 years of association with the firm.