NORWICH – On Wednesday Commerce Chenango will host their 2019 Soiree, the annual celebration to honor and thank member businesses. Sponsored in part by NBT Bank and NBT Insurance Agency, the event will take place under the tent at NBT’s main branch on South Broad Street in Norwich beginning at 5 p.m.

This year’s Soiree will feature Business of the Year, Blueox Energy Products and Neighborhood Markets. This award is a tribute to the business that demonstrates consistent business growth, dedication to excellence and quality, and investment in their business, employees and the community.

In the 1950’s and through the 1960’s, Thompson Fuel Service supplied the local area with fuel oil, kerosene and coal. In 1965, David L. Emerson bought Thompson Fuel and later gave his son David B. a portion of the ownership. At this time the company began to supply gas stations in the local area. In the late 70’s, Neil Bartle bought into the business and Thompson Fuel became the Blueox Corporation offering service and installation in the plumbing and heating industry and began adding the Nice & Easy Convenience stores. As Neil became the President of Blueox in 1995, the company was becoming known as a leader in the service and installation business.