Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Congratulations to Kelsick Specialty Market and Smith’s Florist and Gift Shoppe! Both have been recognized by the Hampton Roads Retail Alliance for 2019. Kelsick Market is their 2019 Retailer of the Year and Smith’s Florist is one of their 2019 retail award winners. Here on the Middle Peninsula, we have known the worth of these two gems for years.

Smith’s Florist was established 50 years ago by Kenneth and Jean Smith with their daughters, Karen Soles and Connie Field, joining in over the years. You were always welcome to choose your own flowers for an arrangement or ask for suggestions for the perfect bouquet for someone local or to be delivered across the county in time for that special occasion. Gift choices and home decorations abounded—right down to a custom-made bow for your Christmas wreath. Last year, Michael and Emilie Richardson bought this business and are continuing the fine services Smith’s has always provided the are...