Since 2015, the William M. Raines High School Class of 1989 has joined other alumni in hosting its annual ‘Family & Friends Day,’ bringing classmates, family members, and friends together to reconnect and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Raines community. Scheduled annually during the week following Juneteenth, the event celebrates freedom, fellowship, and African American history while supporting local Black-owned businesses, including Evans’ Rendezvous and Mr. Holley’s BBQ. Over the years, the tradition has grown beyond the Class of 1989, welcoming alumni from Raines graduating classes throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
The annual gathering reflects the Viking pride, lifelong friendships, and community spirit that continue to unite generations of Raines graduates. Held at historic American Beach, the gathering honors the area’s rich African American heritage. Founded in 1935 by entrepreneur Abraham Lincoln Lewis, American Beach provided Black families with a safe vacation destination during segregation and remains an important cultural landmark today. Shown is Raines Class of 1989 celebrating their loves, losses and success.