Secrest Wardle Grand Rapids Executive Managing Partner Henry Emrich Serves as “Roaster” at Silent Observer Event

Secrest Wardle Grand Rapids Executive Managing Partner, Henry Emrich, served as a roaster at Silent Observer’s Farewell Roast & Toast of Bill Forsyth on December 7, 2016. The event recognized the distinguished and memorable career of William Forsyth, who has served as Kent County Prosecutor for 30 years. Accompanying Mr. Emrich were his wife, Anne; Sgt. John Paasch; Natalie Winquest; John Hess and his wife; and Sarah Walburn, an Executive Partner located in the Firm’s Grand Rapids office, and her husband, Scott, the Chief Assistant Prosecutor in Newaygo County.

The event, moderated by Judge Donald Johnston, took place at Noto’s Old World Dining in Grand Rapids. The entertaining evening consisted of a dinner and amusing program where Mr. Forsyth had to “stand trial” by facing “witness roasters.” The roasters, Mr. Emrich, Cass County Prosecutor Vic Fitz, and Ambassador Peter Secchia, made Mr. Forsyth the target of their good natured jokes. The retiring Prosecutor was also “toasted” by a “jury” of his peers including Richard and Maria Kozminski, Jerry and Gail Battaglia, and Retired Chief Kevin Belk. Secrest Wardle showed additional support for all that Mr. Forsyth has done for the Kent County community and Silent Observer by serving as a Court Reporter Sponsor for the event.

All fundraising helped support Silent Observer, a program that keeps the Kent County community safe and assists victims in finding justice. The organization connects with all segments of the public through anonymous tip lines and a student program called Fast 50.

Secrest Wardle is a law firm specializing in defense litigation and counsel for insurance, municipal, and commercial clients headquartered in Troy, Michigan, with additional offices in Grand Rapids and Lansing. www.secrestwardle.com.