Sports Briefs: Bob Barker Brigade

As I made my way into the Regent Care Center in Woodway, Texas, all I could hope was that I was indeed entering an assisted living community, as opposed to a bingo hall.

Upon being surrounded by wheelchairs the moment I penetrated, I began wishing I had worn a pair of rollerblades, should races commence during my stay.

After 35 years of service, the Bob Barker Brigade officially gets discharged on Friday. The 83-year-old Barker is retiring from "The Price Is Right," a Mark Goodson Television Production.

Though it is yet to be seen whether college students will continue to flock to the show, Barker's exit means the next host will have a more difficult time ensuring none of Troop College ever pilfer any Plinko chips. However, assigning Gov. Schwarzenegger as host might thwart that possibility.

Being brigadier general of Troop Under 30 (a position I unanimously appointed myself to), I was in search of enlistees from Troop Over 70 (those who can recall "Truth or Consequences," rather than "Happy Gilmore").

Here are the thoughts of some of Barker's loyal friends and true, reminiscing upon his retirement. Though if Bob is anything like Michael Jordan, I'll be doing this again in a few years, and I'll remember to bring my rollerblades.

"I watch Bob Barker everyday. Friday is supposed to be his last day. I've been watching for a long time. It's been about nine years. It's my favorite show. I enjoy watching it, and I'll continue to. I like to hear them say 'come on down'." - Delma Ruth Nelson.

"I've been watching as long as it's been on. I watched it always. I watched it before I was married. It's been a long, long time, and I used to watch it everyday. I hear it now when I can. Bob is gonna be missed, but I realize that when I got to be 65, I retired too. I retired so I could spend more time at home. And I always loved to watch the show." - Kathleen McCafferty.

"I really don't know how long I've watched, but it's been a long time - ever since it started, I guess. It's a really good show. He's such a good person. You bet I'll miss him. I couldn't wait till it came on. I'll watch it a time or two after he retires, and if I like it, I'll keep watching." - Gladys Lundberg.

"I used to watch everyday. Once in awhile I turn to it. I used to watch it come on every morning. The other day they told about him retiring. When you get to be in your 80s, things slow down. I know from experience. I just liked to see him." - Laura Powell.

"I watched it for a long. My favorite part is when they spun the wheel. It's about time he retired. He's really good at his job." - Gloria Thurou.

"I don't know how long I've been watching that show. I watched it religiously when I retired - 25 years probably. His show will never be the same without him. He was great - an institution. I always liked it when they won both showcases." - Naomi Fentress.

"I've been watching since way back. I think it's wonderful to give somebody else a chance to host, but I'll miss him. I liked him, especially when he changed his hair." - Annie Lollar.

"I've watched a long time. I couldn't tell you the number of years. I hate Bob retiring, because he was really good. He was a good man. I sure will miss him. They were all good shows. He was good for the show. He made it work." - Eloise Frazier.