Buddy Lanier named recreation director

Buddy Lanier named recreation director

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Walter Geiger

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Monday, May 18. 2009

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Ron (Buddy) Lanier, current manager of the Barnesville Civic Center, has been named recreation director.

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#1 anon on 05/18/09 at 08:28 AM

Get ready Barnesville ,you'll going to see alot of purple uniforms.

#2 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 08:35 AM

good, thats what Barnesville needs someone thats young with passion. I'm sure he will do a great job.

#3 I said on 05/18/09 at 08:42 AM

Buddy will do fine just as long as he remembers to bow everytime King J walks in. Don't want to be on his bad side.

#4 anon on 05/18/09 at 08:43 AM

Can we still call him Buddy or do we call him Ron.

#4.1 wilson topson on 05/18/09 at 09:16 AM

I'm gonna call him Papa Ron!

#5 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 08:56 AM

It would be nice if the news would list his experience....I have never heard of this guy and for all that I know, he worked as shift leader at McDonald's.....

#5.1 anon on 05/18/09 at 09:46 AM

If you have never heard of Buddy Lanier, then you obviously haven't been around these parts long enough for your opinion to matter anyway.

#5.2 yoohoo on 05/18/09 at 09:55 AM

Hey dummie, it says right up top, that he is current manager of the Civic Center!

#5.3 Anon on 05/18/09 at 10:20 AM

If you've never heard of Buddy then you definitely haven't been paying attention. He has been active in Barnesville's recreation and public services since I was a youngster playing little league. Maybe you haven't heard of him because he is a hard worker and has done his work without stirring up controversy. Trust me he is well equipped to handle this job.

#6 eyecall on 05/18/09 at 08:58 AM

This is good news! Congrats Ron!

#7 jr on 05/18/09 at 09:46 AM

Damn, I didn't know his name was Buddy.

#8 anonymous on 05/18/09 at 10:08 AM

Brock is proud of big brother.

#9 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 10:20 AM

i played ball for buddy lanier for many years. He truley has a passion for sports. Like it was said above. If you dont know buddy lanier you havent been around here long enough for your opinion to count.

#9.1 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 02:42 PM

I was born and raised here. I am 37 and played ball as a kid. I have never heard of him. So I don't count, or some of you guys CAN'T count. Sheesh, give me a break.

#9.1.1 me on 05/18/09 at 03:48 PM

Not only can you not count but you can't speak.

#9.1.1.1 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 07:03 PM

bla bla

#10 MO on 05/18/09 at 10:39 AM

Moving on up. Buddy's a great choice for the job. But, we'll miss him at the civic center and pool.

#11 Brandon Jackson on 05/18/09 at 10:56 AM

+1 if you haven't heard of Buddy then WHO ARE YOU!? lol ovbiously not been around here long at all... I played ball for Buddy and Brock and they've always been great guys through and through. If you need some help Buddy hit me up.

#11.1 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 04:27 PM

I have not heard of Buddy. My children are in t-ball so we are just being introduced to the recreation department. We also do not get into the politics because they all lie. So instead of being a smart butt why can you not tell us who is Buddy?

#11.1.1 Anonymous on 05/19/09 at 11:58 AM

He is only one of the greatest things that has ever happened to the rec dept in my opinion.He does not get into the politics and the mud spreading like others do. If he does half as good in this new job as he has done in the past,then we got it made.Keep up the good work Buddy,we all miss u at the ag arena

#12 kim hill on 05/18/09 at 11:34 AM

Congratulations Buddy! Thank you so much for all you've done for the youth in this county, and in my family.

#13 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 11:46 AM

Congets Ron Lanier, Jay Matthews and Wayne Patterson!!! Bye bye John Gilbert. John with stupid Obama!!! Bye bye John Gilbert.

#14 anon on 05/18/09 at 11:49 AM

Buddy is an excellent choice, i think he will bring the recreation department programs up to par with other counties of our size. Remember, HE CAN'T DO IT ALONE!!!

#15 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 12:21 PM

Congrats to Ron Patrick. It's good to see a fellow Yellow Jacket fanatic get that job.

#16 Tex on 05/18/09 at 12:28 PM

He will be a good person for the job. Just hope he can put up with the crap that comes along with the job. I have known Buddy all my life and his attitude and personality is perfect for the job. I have never seen him without a smile and good attitude and if he gets angry or mad he never shows it in front of people. He will make sure things are done right and improve the image of the Lamar County recreation dept. When he and his brother coached the kids years ago Buddy's best interest was the good for the kids.

#17 Eagle 4-life on 05/18/09 at 12:43 PM

I hate to see the Civic Center will loose him.
Buddy is great for the Rec. though. I played for Buddy on his Yankees baseball teams and Eagles football teams and we always enjoyed ALOT of winning. We not only won in Rec ball but when a bulk of his ex-players moved on to the middle school and High School we continued winning. Coach Wilson profited from us ex-Eagles players and the Trojans havent enjoyed all that much success when the last of those Eagles graduated.

#18 Pauline on 05/18/09 at 01:16 PM

CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!! I KNOW YOU'LL DO A WONDERFUL JOB. LOVE, NANA PAULINE

#19 Timothy B. Dix on 05/18/09 at 01:28 PM

Jacket fan?

He's a cut off jean, mullet lovin' gator lover!
Other than that, he'll do well in his new position.

#19.1 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 05:16 PM

he only supports Florida because they consistently whip the mutts...deep down, he is a Yellow Jacket through and through

#20 Franklin on 05/18/09 at 02:02 PM

Dear Parents and Students,

The Explorer program is open to boys and girls between the age of 14 and 18. At age 14, you can join the Barnesville Lamar County Fire Rescue... Explorers particpate in training, field trips and other department. At age 16 you will be permitted to ride on the apparatus as an observer, and at age 17 you may apply to attend firefighter or EMT classes. Upon reaching the age of 18, you'll be trained and ready to respond to emergency incidents.

Repelling, Car fire, Smoke up the tower, Search and Rescue, Hose work, Medical training, Ladder training, Hazmat training, and Fire ground communications. Explorer Do Not enter live fire or hazardous situations.

#21 jughead on 05/18/09 at 02:10 PM

Does he go by Ron, Ronnie, or Ronald?

#21.1 Fred on 05/18/09 at 03:11 PM

Just call him Ronald.

#21.2 Tom on 05/18/09 at 05:37 PM

Captain Ron

#22 Dawg on 05/18/09 at 02:20 PM

Congrats to Ron Patrick. The only negative thing I can say about Buddy is that he's a Tech fan.

#22.1 Coach Johnson on 05/18/09 at 03:11 PM

far as I can tell he has made the right choice there. The Dawgs are my whipp'n boys

#23 O.B. on 05/18/09 at 03:08 PM

Congratulations Buddy. This is the best decision that anyone associated with Lamar County has made in 25 years.

Ron Patrick will do an outstanding job as the Recreation Director.

#24 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 03:18 PM

I believe Buddy is a great choice for the job. Congratulations.

#25 POPtart on 05/18/09 at 03:33 PM

Who is responsile for this hire? I sure want to shake your hand for such a good choice! Mr. Patterson and Mr. Mathews you come out smelling like a rose on this my friends! Congrats Mr. Lanier!

#26 Looking For Progress on 05/18/09 at 03:59 PM

A followup interview with Mr. Lanier would be nice. Some questions that could be asked, are...

What is your vision for making the Rec Dept. equal to, or better than, those in the neighboring counties? More specifically, how do you feel about incorporating Dixie Youth Baseball into the mix at the local rec. dept?

What changes do you, and the county commission, see that need to be made to get the rec dept. on par with those that are more successful in the area?

Are you satisfied with the numbers in each individual sport? Do you think that there is any room for growth in the number of teams playing rec. football, baseball, & soccer?

What physical plant improvements need to be made at the rec. dept., and why?

Quantity doesn't always bring quality. Do you think that bigger is better?

What's right with the rec dept., as it currently stands, and what immediate changes do you see as needing to be made for improvement...?

Is there a time line for these changes, and if there is, what is it?

Certainly these questions were asked in the interview, but the public would probably be interested in finding out what they are...

#26.1 John Uno on 05/18/09 at 06:40 PM

(Comment removed)

#26.1.1 Looking For Progress on 05/18/09 at 08:15 PM

I think that you must have misunderstood the nature of the post. In no way was it insinuating that Mr. Lanier is not the right man for the job, nor that the selection process was flawed... I just gave a list of questions, that if given the answers, would hopefully enlighten the readership on what Mr. Lanier's, and the County Commission's, visions are for the rec dept. going-forward...

Basically, the announcement tells us that a new director has been selected, but it doesn't tell us much else. That's all...

#26.1.2 anonymous 2 on 05/18/09 at 08:27 PM

I don't really know Lanier and I'm not making any comment against him but, this was a classic example of having the employee picked before any interviews were made. I'm curious of how the job opening was posted.

The accomplishment: Wasting the time of the two people not selected.

I want to see fair and balanced leadership. This type of hiring pratice is not what I would expect from a real manager and absolutely not from a leader. Foul!

#26.1.2.1 Sheila Tolley on 05/19/09 at 08:34 AM

Get you jealous a$$ comments off this post. With that much positive feedback...he will be great. You go and buy that book, "How to win Friends and Influence People." Read it twice.

#26.1.2.1.1 red dirt on 05/19/09 at 11:56 AM

Must have been one of the two not selected....yep, you lost out, LOOSER!--a sore one at that!

#26.1.2.1.1.1 anonymous 2 on 05/19/09 at 05:22 PM

Sorry; no. I didn't apply. I have a job that I wouldn’t leave for that one.

I'm also sorry that you are not capable of understanding what I said which was nothing derogatory toward Lanier. My comment was directed toward a previous comment and the management practices used in the mentioned hiring.

Considering your comment, I know that this is probably beyond your current management skill educational level but, unless the job was open only to internal hiring, posting a job open to the public, selecting the three top applicants, and hiring in a three day time span are not very ethical management practices. That would fall on Patterson. Allowing those management practices to take place would fall on Mathews.

Hopefully this clears up the issue before you attempt to another stupid comment.

#26.1.2.1.1.1.1 Anonymous on 05/20/09 at 01:39 AM

For obvious reasons in your blog you have not been personally involved in business and in making management decisions. 17 applicants is definately a clue that more than 1, 2 or even 3 people knew about the job opening. I'm not sure if it is you or your friend that was one of the two applicants that was not chosen for this position but I am sorry that the qualifications needed were not in the two applicants that were not chosen, as they were with Buddy. Not saying that he was the only applicant qualified, but the one that was most qualified. With this said, summer is here and this position is not one that can or should go unattended for any length of time. So, this appointment was very much needed and needed quickly. 3 days to make or announce the appointment is saying that much thought went into this appointment, otherwise, it could have been announced immediately. Crying "foul", my question to you would be, would you cry this if one of the other applicants that you are speaking out for would have been chosen for the appointment or would everything have been ok then?

#26.1.2.1.1.1.1.1 anonymous 2 on 05/20/09 at 01:51 PM

I refuse to argue with you. As stated, I responded to a post regarding a three day announcement and hiring process. You obviously can’t read or lack the ability to comprehend when you do. For the emphasis that you put on my reply to another comment, I’m making an assumption that you are defending yourself under an anonymous name. If the original post that I refer to is correct, and this whole process took place in only three days, then answer a few simple questions.

1. Who was the position open to?

2. How was the vacancy announced?

3. What was the opening date of the announcement?

4. What was the closing date of the announcement?

5. What were the application requirements? (Application/Resume Submission)

I personally don’t care who was selected. I don’t know Lanier and I don’t know any of the applicants. I apologize for lacking management skills as you suggest. Perhaps I should reconsider my current position requiring multi-million dollar decisions that affect the spending of your tax dollars in engineering and defense.

#26.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1 Prez. Obamamamadrama on 05/20/09 at 02:14 PM

Well then, engineree your azz off. I think if your in National Defense and multi- million dollar decisions, then you need not worry about little ole' Barnesville and it's little 'ole Rec Dept.

#26.1.2.1.1.1.1.1.1.1 anonymous 2 on 05/20/09 at 03:15 PM

Sorry. If I would only have known I was talking with the president, I would have understood that it just couldn't be helped.

No cure for stupid.

#26.1.2.1.1.1.2 red dirt on 05/20/09 at 02:21 PM

Why do you worry your little panzy-a$$ with the selection process. Let me sum it up for YOU. 1. One man fired. 2. people applied for opening. 3.Best man choosen. End of f-n story. So, go put on a diaper and suck your thumb you sourpuss!

#26.1.2.1.2 anonymous 2 on 05/19/09 at 04:32 PM

I’m sorry. I didn’t realize that the Gestapo was monitoring this. I’ll try and stop the exercising freedom of speech and expression while the country continues to be Obaminized.

Wait! I changed my mind. I’ll say what’s on my mind.

#26.2 ME on 05/19/09 at 09:24 PM

I agree. I know Buddy Lanier and am positive he will do a great job for the department, however, since my tax dollars are helping pay the salary now, I would like to have answers to some questions and concerns as well.

#26.3 Anonymous on 05/20/09 at 01:13 AM

I have known Buddy for many years, actually since we were teenagers. Knowing Buddy like I do I am definately sure that if you would make yourself and your concerns known to Buddy at the rec. dept. he will be more than happy to answer any or all of your questions or concerns that you may have concerning his vision for the recreation dept. Give it a try before complaining.

#27 Sheila Tolley on 05/18/09 at 04:16 PM

He certainly is a nice looking young man.The comments indicate he is also a good choice for the job.

#28 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 05:19 PM

could've been worse. they could've picked Abreu. wouldn't surprise me to see him running the civic center now.

#29 Big Tech Fan on 05/18/09 at 05:56 PM

WooooHooooo!!!! Oh the horror this year when the Mutts lose again to my beloved Jackets!!!!I smell honey and dawg sh@t in the air already!! The Mutts will win 5 games this year!

#30 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 06:20 PM

Who will be taking his job at the Civic Center?

#31 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 06:26 PM

Ronald has that rip moore expression, are they related.

#31.1 Jeff on 05/19/09 at 09:44 AM

That who he looks like. Whenever I see Rip he is wearing a visor and looks just like that.

#32 Anonymous on 05/18/09 at 10:38 PM

Looking For Progress,

What about Diving/Swimming pool, Wrestling and Gymnastics????

#32.1 Looking For Progress on 05/19/09 at 09:32 AM

Not sure about the Diving/Swimming Pool. Maybe that is already covered at the civic Center. Wrestling & Gymnastics would be accomplished at the high school in their athletic programs, I would surmise...

#33 It's Me on 05/19/09 at 12:23 AM

To be fair to those stating that they do not know Buddy ... I completely understand.

Had I never went to the Civic Center to use the gym, I wouldn't have a clue who he was either. And I never even knew his name until I read this story. But, I can tell you that he is extremely friendly, outgoing, and polite. Aparently he has a lot of friends here and many who grew up with him in the area who all support him. I have no reason to believe that he would not do a wonderful job in his new position. I wish him the very best and look forward to progress.

#34 anonymous on 05/19/09 at 09:57 AM

Don t know Ron, don't know Ronald, don't know Patrick, don't know Buddy but do know Mr Lanier at civic center. He good man. Who are other people. I don't see them were they up for job and Mr Lanier won it. He better man if he won.

#35 Alex P Keaton on 05/19/09 at 02:58 PM

I heard Dane put in a good word for Buddy.

#36 Lisa and Bruce on 05/19/09 at 04:12 PM

Congratulations to a great guy!!!!!!!You deserve it!!!

#37 cats on 05/19/09 at 04:29 PM

Yay for Buddy. He's a terrific guy.
Who gets his job at the Civic Center?

#38 Franklin on 05/19/09 at 10:50 PM

Dear Parents and Students,

The Explorer program is open to boys and girls between the age of 14 and 18. At age 14, you can join the Barnesville Lamar County Fire Rescue... Explorers particpate in training, field trips and other department. At age 16 you will be permitted to ride on the apparatus as an observer, and at age 17 you may apply to attend firefighter or EMT classes. Upon reaching the age of 18, you'll be trained and ready to respond to emergency incidents.

Repelling, Car fire, Smoke up the tower, Search and Rescue, Hose work, Medical training, Ladder training, Hazmat training, Fire ground communications and Honor Guards. Explorer Do Not enter live fire or hazardous situations. Between 9 am and 5 pm.

Fire Service Exploring

#38.1 cats on 05/20/09 at 06:20 AM

Frank- jeez, can you find another outlet for your announcements?
And I'm pretty sure it should be "rappelling", not "repelling" if you mean that thing you do with ropes.

#38.1.1 Franklin on 05/20/09 at 01:47 PM

Oh never mind. Fat cats? Will you... Shut up. Don't talk. Push ups 60. Right now.

#38.1.1.1 cats on 05/21/09 at 06:27 AM

Frank! 60 pushups?!?! I managed 22..... but you've given me a goal.
I'll keep you informed as to my progress. :)

#38.1.1.1.1 SGT. Frank on 05/21/09 at 01:45 PM

Don't talk. We don't play for funny. Sit ups, 80. Say it loud... YES SIR.

#38.1.1.1.1.1 cats on 05/21/09 at 04:37 PM

Crap... gotta keep my mouth shut.....

#39 KELLY on 05/20/09 at 02:56 PM

BUDDY,HERE IS TO YOU MY FRIEND IF PAPA CANT BE THERE THEN YOU ARE A GREAT CHOICE.THIS COMES FROM THE HEART I KNOW BUDDY WILL DO TO THE BEST OF HIS ABILITY TO MAKE GREAT THINGS HAPPEN.#1 HE IS FOR THE KIDS,#2HE KNOWS HOW TO MAKE THINGS WORK AND EXPAND TO NEW LEVELS FOR THE REC.#3 IF IT IS NOT FAIR HE WILL SAY SO.#4 AS FAR AS I KNOW BUDDY DOES NOT PLAY POLITICS.SO NOW IT IS TIME FOR THE COUNTY TO SHOW HIM THE MONEY AND LET THE MAN DO HIS JOB.CONGRATS BUDDY,FRIENDS ALWAYS AND THANKS FOR ACCEPTING THE JOB .NOW GO TO WORK. KELLY H.

#40 Anonymous on 05/20/09 at 04:38 PM

Barnesville is as Barnesville does. I won't say anything bad about Buddy b/c frankly I have never heard a bad word spoken about the man. However, I think we all know how things get done in small towns, it's all about who you know. So maybe he had a word or two put in for him, or maybe he knows someone who had a hand in the hiring process, but give him the benefit of the doubt folks. He's qualified, got a clean record and he deserves a chance to prove himself. Give him a year, then make your complaints.

#41 new on 05/22/09 at 09:23 AM

Gymnastics/diving/swimming/cheerleading for other than High School would be great!!! Any chance??

#42 Anonymous on 05/22/09 at 10:37 PM

Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin FIRED!!!

#43 Anonymous on 05/22/09 at 10:53 PM

What about hockey? JROTC Unit near Robera Dr.? Wrestling & Gymnastics near Trojan Way or Panda Dr.? Diving & Swimming near Trojan Way or Panda Dr.?

#44 Brenda on 05/23/09 at 06:23 PM

I moved to the Barnesville area from South Carolina a little over 2 years ago. I met Buddy when my son and I joined the Fitness Center. Buddy was always pleasant and respectful. He took a true interest in the well being of my young adult son. Buddy is a fine Christian man and will make this area proud as the new Rec Director. Congrats Buddy!

#45 Chad, Machelle & Haley Nelms on 05/25/09 at 12:32 PM

Great choice Jay Matthews. It is about time to get someone involved in the community to represent Barnesville-Lamar County in a respectful way and for a role model that our kids can look up to. Congrats. Buddy:)

#45.1 Anonymous on 05/27/09 at 11:02 PM

Great comment, and i feel the same way.If he does nothing else in his duties, he will definatley be a GREAT role model for our kids.You will never see his pants half way down his butt either.There are alot of civic people that could take notes on how to lead by example from Buddy. CONGRATS BUDDY!!!!

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