David Hawks Ruland, or Hawks, is a young achiever who has lived on Deerhaven Lane since he was

born. Having lived in Biltmore Park for all 12 years of his life, Hawks knows what he likes to do around
the neighborhood. “I usually just hang around in the city area, lift weights at the YMCA, I like to eat at
Brixx whenever I’m there, [it’s] definitely the best place to eat” said Ruland.

Hawks leads a busy life. He is a part of Classical Scholars, a local homeschool co-op, as well as Forest
Floor, an outdoor survival program that focuses on nature-connection experiences for homeschooled
children in the area. He also is very proud to have a job at the age of 12. He works at his family’s
business, Grace Jewelers.

Hawks Ruland lives with his mother, Brecken Ruland, and his father, Peter Ruland. Mrs. Ruland works as
a nurse, and Mr. Ruland owns the jewelry store that Hawks works at. Hawks also has an older brother
named Judah who is 15 years old. The family also has two golden-doodles named Charlie and Ruby. “I
think it’s pretty cute and funny when they bonk their heads on things around the house,” said Hawks. He
loves trying to teach them tricks and train them. Hawks’ family has four other members of the family as
well… bock bock!! FOUR CHICKENS! They don’t have names yet, but the Ruland’s are working on
coming up with some good ones.

In his spare time, Hawks has several hobbies that keep him occupied. He really enjoys cooking, and has
been trying several different recipes. “I think the way I started was by seeing a bunch of YouTube videos
and wanting to try them all out… Still working on doing that” Hawks said. He also likes playing the
piano. “I remember hearing my mom play some songs and I just decided that’s what I wanted to do,” he
said.

With so many great things to do in Asheville, residents are lucky to find fun activities not only inside, but
outside as well. Hawks’ favorite indoor activity is spending time at the Asheville mall. “Even though it’s
pretty dead, it gives a cool little vibe,” he said. Outdoors, he enjoys taking in the beauty of the
Appalachian mountains surrounding us. “I also love going into the woods or looking at the beautiful
landscape” said Hawks.

The youth of today are very lucky to have access to so many media outlets and entertainment sources.
Hawks enjoys reading The Chronicles of Narnia, Huckleberry Finn, and anything Western. His favorite
movie is either The Matrix or The Second Godfather, and his favorite song is “Mirage” by Chilo
Escebedo. What a diversified taste in entertainment!

Hawks Ruland takes pride in his abilities on the piano, as well as how “big and tall” he is. “It gives me
self-esteem,” Ruland stated. Hawks loves to go with the flow. He plans on spending the next several years
getting better at playing the piano, cooking, and honing in on several of his other interests. In the far off
future, however, Hawks isn’t sure what he wants to do or where he wants to be. “We’ll see once I get
there,” said Hawks.