7 Questions With Robert Van Winkle: Where did you grow up? I am an Arizona native and grew up in many places all over the Grand Canyon State. I was born in Ajo, Arizona (ajo is the Spanish word for 'garlic' so I love to tell my latino friends where I was born) and I lived in Mesa, Flagstaff, Tucson, and Prescott. I did some more growing up while serving on the USS Nimitz during my time in the Navy and during 17 years in Charlottesville, Virginia and 22 years in Fort Myers, Florida. Moving to Seattle to start a new chapter in my life will provide many more growing opportunities I am sure! Why did you become a journalist? When I enlisted in the US Navy I was offered a wide variety of jobs to be trained for after Boot Camp. I picked meteorology and ended up being one of the youngest forecasters ever trained in the weather office on the Nimitz during the Iranian Hostage Crisis in 1979. What cities have you worked in during your journalism career? I started my television career in Prescott, Arizona at KUSK-TV. I worked in Charlottesville, Virginia at WVIR-TV and in Fort Myers, Florida at WBBH-TV. What’s the most memorable story you’ve ever covered? I was on-air as Chief Meteorologist during 6 major Hurricanes while working at WBBH-TV in Fort Myers. Charley, Frances, Ivan, Jeanne, Wilma and Irma are names I won't forget. What are you most proud of in your career in news? I am most proud of the many connections and friendships made over the 32 years I was in broadcasting. I retired in 2018 to take care of my Mother who was diagnosed with cancer. Now, I look forward to more friendships and connections as I re-start my broadcasting career in Seattle. What’s something people don’t know about you? I love classical music and gardening. I also speak fluent Spanish, German and (a little) American Sign Language. You will probably see me signing "good night" at the end of the 11:00 news. What do you like to do when you’re not working? When I am not working I love to go for a drive and explore new places. The choices seem to be limitless around here and I can't wait to see it all!