Robert Broome By Craig Downs Robert Broome was born in Odessa, Texas, in 1976, a town made popular by the book, film, and television series “Friday Night Lights.” After high school, Robert worked in the Texas oil fields until age 26, when he began hitchhiking to look for work. His travels took him all over the Southern region of the U.S. until he finally ended up in Nashville to work for a traveling carnival company. Again, Robert traveled all over, most notably to Puerto Rico. After quitting the carnival gig over pay disagreements, Robert decided to move to Washington, D.C., because he heard of the great social services here. Along the way, he was robbed of the little money he had and his only form of identification. He has been very thankful for the speed and courtesy in being issued a new ID, and hopes to find job security in the future. Robert enjoys traveling and being outside, but only when his jobs give him enough security to not worry about money. His travels give him many things to think and write about, and he enjoys writing interview stories and short essays. Where do you see yourself in five years? Working in construction or some work that allows me to be outside. Favorite movie? “The Crow.” Favorite music? Nirvana and Guns & Roses. Favorite food? Mexican food, specifically Tex–Mex. Favorite book? Dean Koontz’s “Hideaway.” June 25, 2008