Local News
Schussboom Brewing Company Becomes Gold Sponsor for U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree

Reno, NV October 21, 2025 — Celebrating the meaning of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, Schussboom Brewing’s support will contribute to the efforts of bringing the tree from its home state of Nevada to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The tree’s journey is made possible by the generous support of sponsors and partners, and in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters.
As part of the partnership, Schussboom Brewing has created 3 beers to commemorate and celebrate “The People’s Tree”. Bearing the name of the species of tree, “Abies Magnifica”, a hoppy red ale, was brewed with foraged tender red fir tips; “Comstock Lode”, a hazy IPA, pays tribute the gold and silver found in the Virginia City mine; and “Ghost of Christmas Pils”, a Bavarian Pilsner, honors the souls of the Wild West of Nevada. All beers will be canned and available for purchase.
The red fir tree will be harvested from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in late October. The first viewing will be on Saturday, Oct. 25th at Mount Rose Ski Tahoe from 3:00-5:00 pm, where the official beers will be available and an after party hosted at Schussboom Brewing Company at 6:00 pm.
Its journey will include a series of community celebrations before it is delivered to the U.S. Capitol in late November, where it will be decorated with handmade ornaments specially created by Nevada residents.
Schussboom Brewing will be traveling with “The People’s Tree” through the state of Nevada and Arizona to serve the Nevada-made beers at community events and bring awareness to the Nevada Craft Brewing industry. The specialty brews will continue to travel with “The People’s Tree” all the way to the U.S. Capitol and served at community events along the way and at receptions at the tree lighting ceremony in December.
“This is a once in a life-time opportunity to partner with the USDA Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters, represent Nevada across the country, and create Christmas cheer with beer! We couldn’t be more honored and humbled to be a part of this process.”, says Briana Wagner, President of Schussboom Brewing.
Festivities that are free to the public are made possible through sponsorship to encourage and build community engagement along the tree’s journey.
Communities will be able to see the tree in person during the tour, participate in various events, learn about forestry practices, and celebrate the program.
About the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree initiative is a 55-year tradition in which one of our 154 national forests provides a tree for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The project is made possible with support from partners, including The Society of American Foresters, cash and in-kind contributions from large and small businesses, and volunteers locally and across America. For a list of 2025 sponsors and to join in the Christmas spirit, please visit www.uscapitolchristmastree.com and @uscapitolchristmastree on Facebook and Instagram.
For immediate information or contact, please reach out to connect@safnet.org.
Local News
High-Angle Rescue in Progress After Teen Climbs 900-Foot KSDK TV Transmission Tower in Affton

AFFTON, MO — Emergency crews are conducting a high-angle rescue operation in Affton, Missouri, after a 17-year-old male reportedly climbed nearly 900 feet up a television transmission tower belonging to local station KSDK on Heege Road.
According to officials with the Lemay Fire Protection District, the call for assistance came in around 2:30 p.m. when witnesses reported seeing the teenager scaling the tower.
Responding units from both the Affton Fire Protection District and Lemay Fire Protection District quickly arrived on scene and established a command post at the base of the structure.
Fire officials confirmed that the individual, described as a 17-year-old male, was observed barefoot and positioned approximately 850 feet above the ground.
Authorities say they believe the teen may be under the influence of alcohol or another substance, though that has not been confirmed.
Specialized technical rescue teams are currently coordinating efforts to reach and safely bring the teen down from the tower.
The operation is described as extremely dangerous and complex, given the height and structural conditions.
Law enforcement personnel have secured the surrounding area, and roads near the tower have been closed as a precaution while emergency crews work.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.