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.
Three young lives were tragically lost in a fiery head-on collision early Wednesday morning, November 4, 2026, on Highway 158 near Happy Hill Road in Stokesdale, Guilford County, North Carolina.
Authorities have identified the victims as 16-year-old Baisley, 22-year-old Saige Richardson, and 27-year-old Tyler Robinson. Their deaths have left three families grieving an unimaginable loss and have deeply saddened those who knew and loved them.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 2 a.m. when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collided head-on along Highway 158.
The force of the impact caused both vehicles to catch fire. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but all three individuals involved in the collision were pronounced dead at the location.
The victims were identified as Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson. They were 16, 22, and 27 years old, respectively. Each had a life of their own, with relationships, hopes, and plans for the future. Their sudden deaths have left loved ones facing a devastating reality.
Following the collision, Highway 158 was closed for several hours as emergency crews and investigators worked at the scene. The roadway reopened at approximately 5:35 a.m.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The cause of the collision has not yet been determined, and officials have not released further details about what may have led to the two vehicles striking each other.
The deaths of Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson are a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can change. At just 16, 22, and 27, all three had so much life ahead of them. Their loss will be felt most deeply by their families, friends, and everyone whose lives they touched.
For their loved ones, the days ahead will bring the difficult task of navigating grief while holding on to the memories of those they have lost. Three families are now left with an absence that words cannot fully describe.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with the families and friends of Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson. May they find strength, comfort, and support during this painful time.
May Baisley, Saige Richardson, and Tyler Robinson rest in eternal peace.