The Defiance Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet Thursday evening at the Knights of Columbus Hall with a number of persons, businesses and organizations recognized.
The big honor — the Michael A. Shultz Leadership Award — was presented to Todd Shafer, Defiance's former police chief who retired last year and is currently working for the Defiance County Sheriff's Office.
Shafer thanked his dad, Gary, also a former police chief, saying, "I wouldn't be here tonight if not for my dad. it's been an honor serving the community of Defiance in my role as a police officer ... . My favorite thing is just being able to be out there, make the relationships, and truly try and make the community a safer and better place to live. Thank you all, I really appreciate this (the award)."
The Quality of Life Award winners were presented to Phil Nofziger, LifeWise Academy director, and his wife, Robin.
"Behind any man, is a much better woman and that is definitely my case," said Phil Nofziger. "One thing that is very important is our next generations, and we hope and pray that things will continue with LifeWise ... . We love this community. We've been here about 34 years now, and we'r...