Hjalmer W. "Bill" Lappalainen (Mr. L)  is beginning his fifth year at Farmwell Station after having taught science, social studies and math in Florida for seven years. He received his B.S. In Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin - Superior and a Master's Degree in Special Education from the University of Florida.

 

Mr. L is a transportation enthusiast and holds a merchant seaman's card from the U. S. Coast Guard, a commercial pilot's license, a CDL drivers's license and is a certified railroad conductor. He has also taken a ride on both an elephant and a camel. He has visited all 50 states and 5 continents.

 

Mr. L's hobbies include any activity including railroads and following the fortunes of the Washington Nationals. His summer vacations always include spending time by a small lake in Northern Wisconsin, where he captains his own ship (pontoon boat) called "Da Vave.".

 

He has four children, six grandchilren and one great grandchild. Mr. L lives in the Potomac Green section of Ashburn with his wife and two cats.

 

August 2012