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.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.