Jacob Paz unloads trees from a truck at the Cottone & Sons lot in Torrance. The annual Christmas tree sales operation is “in our blood,” Jacob says. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Jacob ties down trees amid strong winds. He’s become used to dealing with the unexpected. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Jacob flocks a tree to give it a traditional wintry look. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Jacob flocks branches for a white Christmas. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
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Detail of a Christmas wreath at Cottone & Sons (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Tom Cottone, Jacob’s grandfather, owns the business with his grandson. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
Tom Cottone’s experienced hands. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
A smiling Jacob Paz. The youth’s desire to be part of the family business increased after his great-grandfather passed away. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
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Jacob, left, and Jason Nolan tie a Christmas tree to the roof of a car. Jacob has learned a range of skills to help keep the business going strong. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)
