When my pals and I make the rounds for the Shop-Local Gift Guide, the biggest highlight is chatting with our local shopkeepers, many of whom have owned their operations for decades. We also see shopgirls and boys who have been stationed at local stores for years — and we love seeing their smiling faces.

For this post, I finally introduced myself to Kali Boyce, who’s been hauling the carts out at Whole Foods for 15 (!) years. Wish him a happy anniversary when you see him. He hails from Flatbush.

And a special nomination from me to Touray, who stocks the shelves and is my absolute fave. Always smiling, even after 17 years. (Whole Foods opened in 2008.)

And one more: Ahmed Elsabajh, who has his customers orders ready at his cart on Warren and West Broadway even before they reach the corner.

These folks make my day a little lighter every time.