BHS Class of 1970 Emerald 55th Reunion Committee

Mary deSanto Anders

Tary Casaroli Francis

Julie Lutjens Franich-Beckman

Ruth Peckham Khan, Co-chair

Chris Lee

Debbie Berry Newton

Joleigh Sakraida Rafalski, Co-Chair

Steve Roberts

Melody Inman-Spurgeon

A Message From Your Co-Chairs:  "What A Reunion Can Mean"

As we prepare for our 55^th gathering of classmates, committee members have reminisced about our time growing up in Ridgecrest and China Lake and our high school memories.  Each of us has unique memories of certain classmates, teachers, experiences inside and outside of school, as well as friendships made and/or lost.   We have come to realize that not all of us had happy or pleasant school memories, however, these experiences and challenges helped shape us into who we are today. 

Past reunions allowed attendees to see close friends, reconnect with or meet unfamiliar classmates, talk about the good and not so good memories, and remember those of us who have passed away.  Each class reunion has shown us that our BHS classmates are a resilient and amazing group of individuals who have taken many unique paths and faced different challenges, setbacks, and successes in their lives.  

It has been a joy to see someone realize he or she was remembered fondly by classmates.  Others even learned they had a significant influence in someone’s life they weren’t aware of at the time.  Most rewarding are the new relationships forged long after our graduation day because we came together again and again over the years. 

Sharing our stories helped us realize how each person has helped to build the legacy of the Burroughs High School Class of 1970.  Sharing our successes and challenges also enriches and strengthens each of us.  The unique experiences and time of life we all have in common transcend differences and provide such valuable perspective. 

As we approach our mid-seventies, this reunion may be one of our last chances to celebrate and treasure each other and how far we have come on this journey called LIFE.    We encourage each of you to join us in October 2025 and reach out to other classmates as we reconnect with and cherish each other and remember how far we have come.  Please come celebrate with each other.

"Old friends are like stars; even when distant, they shine bright."

Your 55th Emerald Reunion Co-Chairs

Ruth Peckham Khan and Joleigh Sakraida Rafalski