Our American Story

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Our American Story

Pictured: Document signed by Albion K. Parris, United States District Court Judge for the State of Maine, on behalf of Zebulon Libby (1757-1835), who fought in the Revolutionary War and was, by 1818, in need of aid. The Payson Chronicle staff are descendants of Libby—he’s publisher Michael Olson’s great-great-great-great-grandfather.

The 250th anniversary of our nation is not only a time to look back, but also to look forward. Many see 2026 as an opportunity to confront the country’s imperfections while honoring its resilience. Conversations about democracy, equality, and freedom are as vital today as they were in 1776.

Join the conversation.

We want to know what being an American means to you. What are your hopes for our nation’s future? 

Send us your American story in essay form, as an original poem, or composed in lyrics to a song—all for consideration of publication in The Payson Chronicle in the weeks leading up to America's 250th birthday celebration. 

Send your submission to paysonchronicle@gmail.com, or submit in person or by mail at 145 East Utah Avenue #5, Payson, Utah 84651.

Mourning the Passing of Our Friend

 

RICHARD GORDON BELL

 

Santaquin Scene

 

As seen on the Santaquin scene.

#santaquin #cliffordthebigreddog #myronolsonplaza #paysonchronicle 

Sports Photos For Sale

We have a limited number of sports media photos in our office at 145 East Utah Avenue Suite 5. Get in touch with Mike for more information.

American Stories

 CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

Our American Story

Pictured: Antique magic lantern slide shows interior of Faneuil Hall in Boston, Massachusetts. Opened in 1742, Faneuil Hall was the site of several speeches by Samuel Adams, James Otis, and others encouraging independence from Great Britain. 

The 250th anniversary of our nation is not only a time to look back, but also to look forward. Many see 2026 as an opportunity to confront the country’s imperfections while honoring its resilience. Conversations about democracy, equality, and freedom are as vital today as they were in 1776.

Join the conversation.

We want to know what being an American means to you. What are your hopes for our nation’s future? 

Send us your American story in essay form, as an original poem, or composed in lyrics to a song—all for consideration of publication in The Payson Chronicle in the weeks leading up to America’s 250th birthday celebration. 

Send your submission to paysonchronicle@gmail.com, or submit in person or by mail at 145 East Utah Avenue #5, Payson, Utah 84651.

In This Week’s Edition

 

Actually, he’s kinda sweet. 

#mrgrinch #inthisweeksedition #paysonchronicle #thepaysonchronicle #readthepaysonchronicle

Reward

$3,000 REWARD OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ON STOLEN HUMAN REMAINS FROM ANCIENT BURIAL SITE

Trust Lands Archaeologists, Investigators ask for the public’s help

KANE COUNTY, UTAH (DEC. 8, 2025) – The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (TLA) is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the individual or individuals responsible for removing a human skull from a protected ancient burial site in southern Utah.

In January 2025, investigators from the Attorney General’s Office assigned to the Trust Lands Administration became aware of the incident after viewing social media, prompting a search of a site near Kanab.

During the extensive investigation, state archaeologists visited the location and confirmed that a human skull had been removed.

“The theft of human remains from a burial site is a crime and a violation of human dignity,” said Michelle McConkie, executive director of the TLA. “This act not only breaks the law—it is disrespectful to those who lived here long before us and the scientific integrity of Utah’s archaeological record.”

The Trust Lands Administration is offering a $3,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

Anyone with information is urged to contact investigators with the Utah Attorney General’s Office at 801-538-5113 or by emailing aginvestcomplaints@agutah.gov. Individuals with tips may remain anonymous.