TEN QUESTIONS: Steve Haweeli
Mark Ginocchio

Q: What got you interested in public relations work?
A: I started out as a freelance writer, and I liked the idea that I could get paid for my writing.

Q: How did you get started?
A: I was writing direct mail for restaurants, and my first placement was in April 1991 April with [Newsday's] Sylvia Carter. Someone once asked me if I had ever written a press release before, and I had no idea what they were talking about. So, I thought I should figure it out.

Q: Who are some of your clients?
A: I represent a good sampling of restaurants, like The Carltun [On the Park] (East Meadow) and Ben's Kosher Deli (Hicksville). I also represent such East Hampton eateries as Nick & Toni's, Maidstone Arms and The Laundry. Some of my other clients include Devlin McNiff Real Estate and Hampton Luxury Liner.

Q: What are some of your daily responsibilities?
A: A lot of phone work and heavy amounts of e-mail to go through. I usually spend about 45 hours a week working in the office and another five to 10 out of the office.

Q: What are some of your past?
A: I worked for 17 years as a bartender, a maitre d' and a waiter around Long Island, Westchester and Manhattan.

Q: What direction do you see WordHampton going in 2002?
A: I've always wanted to hold back the growth of the company, but it looks growth of the company, but it looks like that change in the future.

Q: What was the last book you read?
A: I just finished Cooper's "Last of the Mohicans" and I'm now starting the fourth "Harry Potter." My 8-year-old son, Ned, finished all four books in 60 days, but I think this book is going to take me forever.

Q: Where do you go on vacation?
A: Florida, to visit family in Naples and Sarasota.

Q: What is your favorite meal?
A: Fried clams at the Clam Bar on the Napeague stretch.

Q: Who has inspired you the most in your life?
A: My father. He came from nothing and showed me the value of hard work and determination.

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