A Family Tree Tradition

Like them green or flocked? Tall and spindly, or short and bushy? Long or short needles? A family tradition of selling Christmas trees that took root 20 years ago continues this year at Ol' St. Nick's, a vacant lot on Pinole Valley Road.

Dino and Christine Forristall's forest includes Noble Firs and Douglas Firs, from table-top size to those better suited in homes with vaulted ceilings.

"The most popular tree is the Noble Fir," said Dino Forristall. about the familiar variety with a lot of space between branches and short needles.

He's been doing this job long enough to spot yearly fluctuations. Sales are good despite the economic climate.

"The only trend we've noticed in the last few years is, with this economy, people might buy an eight-foot tree instead of a nine-foot tree."

In their two decades in the tree business, the couple have operated lots in various locations. This year's spot is between Collins Elementary School and AMF Pinole Valley Lanes. They get customers from Pinole and from nearby communities like Hercules and El Sobrante, Dino Forristall said.

"We want to thank all the community for the support they've given us over the years," said Christine Forristall. "We get a lot of people who come just to see Dino because they know they can take advantage of him. We have a lot of family discounts."

Prices at the lot range from $17.50 to more than $100 per tree. The lot is certified by the California State Fire Service for fire retardant treatment.

During other times of year the Forristalls run a custom ladder and scaffolding company in Oakland. It's been a family business since 1959.