Miami, F.L., May 6, 2011 -  Houck Anderson continued its commitment and showed its strong support for educational and youth development as sponsors and mentors at the Marine Industries Association of South Florida’s 15th Annual Plywood Regatta, held April 30th and May 1st in Dania Beach. Plywood Regatta is a youth boat building competition and race that gives youth from middle school through high school and technical college the chance to learn technical marine skills, interact with marine industry professionals and learn about industry careers, while also building personal character through camaraderie.

Several of the firm’s attorneys attended the two day event to mentor and cheer on the students as they built their boats and raced for the coveted Fort Lauderdale Mariner’s Club challenge trophy. Associate Attorneys Adria Notari and Tommy Cantrell participated on Day One/Build Day providing guidance and mentoring students. “I’ve always enjoyed Plywood Regatta,” said Notari. “It is great to be able to be there to help the kids, be a mentor and see them translate their ideas into boats for the races.” Cantrell noted, “This was my first time at Plywood Regatta and the enthusiasm everyone has for the event was impressive. The exposure to boating, boat building and professionals in the marine industry is definitely going to shape their futures.”

Michelle Otero Valdés, a senior attorney and Member at Houck Anderson who joined the large crowd to watch the races on Day 2/Race Day said, “For our firm to be supporting a youth development program as fun, engaging and educational as Plywood Regatta makes me proud.” She also added, “Plus, I enjoyed the opportunity to encourage our team of middle school students from Palm Beach Maritime Academy who put so much effort and creativity into their boat.”

About Houck Anderson P.A.

Houck Anderson has been a Plywood Regatta sponsor for more than 10 years and maintains a strong community outreach program. The firm is a leading South Florida based law firm with national and international expertise and technical ability in highly selective and specialized areas of litigation and transactional practice. Houck Anderson is recognized as leaders in a  group of niche practice areas that require both outstanding legal knowledge and experience, as well as technical expertise, including admiralty and maritime, aviation, commercial litigation, construction, insurance, products liability, and property and casualty.