05/16/02

BY LISA PROVENCE

On election day, Republican Rob Schilling found himself getting support from unexpected quarters.

As he worked the polls, a 60-something male supporter came up to him and stuffed a check in his hand, apologizing for not getting it to him sooner. And dozens of Democrats told him he was the only Republican they'd ever voted for.

What is it about this longhaired, nouveau Charlottesvillean that sparked a veritable love-fest with enough City residents to earn him an upset win and make him the savior of the City's long-whipped Republicans?

Perhaps it's his optimism: at the last-minute he plunged into what he was assured would be a Democratic cakewalk that he had a snowball's chance in hell of winning.

Or maybe the Republicans just needed a new look.

Whatever.

The Hook sat Schilling in the Hot Seat to discover the really important details about our newest city councilor-­ like his secret fear there won't be enough slices of the pizza for him.

Age: 40

Why do you live in Charlottesville? We searched many different cities to find the best quality of life. This is where we came.

Best thing about living here? The physical beauty along with the vibe of the community. It feels good to be here.

The worst? I miss the multitudes of ethnic restaurants of a metropolitan area like L.A., especially Thai food.

Favorite hangout? At home with my wife and dog, or at Darden Towe Park with them.

What's overrated? Television

What accomplishment are you proudest of? My marriage of 11 years with my wife, Joan. I take that very seriously.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I can be a worrier. I'd like to be able to turn it off and have a good night's sleep.

What do people find most annoying about you? I can be a stickler for details.

Whom do you admire? Abraham Lincoln, Harry Truman, and Ronald Reagan.

What's your favorite read? The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury. I've read it four times and still find it an interesting and cool book.

What are you reading now? I've got a two-inch thick stack of material from the city.

What causes you to rant? People who can't discuss issues civilly. I believe in civil discourse without going into personalities.

What's best about life in the 21st century? Computers. My Macintosh is one of my closest friends.

If you could come back as a car, what model would it be? I've driven Hondas for over 20 years, so I would probably come back as a souped-up Honda Prelude.

What's the most trouble you've ever gotten in? When I was a teenager, I was up to some general hooliganism on the school grounds. Someone called the police, and they chased us. We thought we were home free when five police cars with lights flashing pulled up. They called my parents at 1am. That was unpleasant.

Favorite comfort food? A whole pizza sitting in front of me-­ not that I eat the whole thing, but so I know there's enough slices for me. And it would be a meaty pizza with pepperoni, sausage, or bacon.

Must-see TV? The Munsters, Rockford Files, and Mr. Ed if I can find it on.

Favorite actor: Jimmy Stewart

Last movie seen: The Royal Tenenbaums

Describe a perfect day: It would be spend with people I love. On Santa Catalina Island in the spring is where I became engaged to my wife. We spent many happy times there, and I can't imagine a more prefect day, sitting on a deserted beach and scavenging for beach glass. I like to go low key.

Favorite bumper sticker: Humpty Dumpty was pushed.

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