Kenversations: Ray Sidejas Retires
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Ray was happy to show off the tricks of the Sweeper, including the between-the-legs sweep. He's joined on stage by Susan Cowan who related the story of when she told Cynthia Harriss she wanted to be over the division of the Resort that would include Custodial, because it was filled with long-term managers with a wealth of experience who had come up through the Custodial ranks, and Mike Sweeney, who succeeded Ray as top man for Disneyland Custodial.

When it was his turn to give a monologue, Ray spoke about being prompted by his lifelong best friend John Behrendt to join Disney in the first place. John's support helped sustain Ray through the challenging times, and over the years, Ray and John made plans about the good times they were going to have together in retirement. John was Ray's lifelong friend and his best friend aside from his wife. But earlier this year, John was diagnosed with cancer. Cancer is what ended Walt Disney's life, and after a fight by John, it is what took his life. Thus, John couldn't appear on stage with Ray, but Ray spoke of him with such emotion - pausing to maintain his composure - that I couldn't help but tear up. Ray had asked for people to contribute to the American Cancer Society in John's memory, and so Ray generously took time out of an event honoring his career to present the ACS with a giant check.

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Aside from that touching, heartfelt moment, it was all smiles and cheers for Ray and his wife from his friends and the people who've worked with him over the years.