By: Dawn Carter
Over forty years ago, 79 Dazzling Dragons entered the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center for Grand Assembly, held March 25–28, 1986. Our year invited us on an unforgettable adventure; “Searching for the Treasure”. Grand Worthy Advisor Marcy Perrucci and Supreme Deputy Mrs. Lois Cook made their grand entrance by boat, setting the tone for our grand assembly defined by imagination, leadership, and heart.
Our year was filled with milestones that made it truly special. We proudly celebrated the first-ever husband-and-wife duo to serve as our Rainbow Dad and Mom, a testament to the deep family spirit that defined our term. We were also honored to have two sets of twins (who all shared the same birthday) represent their assemblies as Grand Officers, an unforgettable and rare moment in our shared history.
Grand Assembly that year was dedicated to Mrs. Marlene Larsen and Mrs. Nathalie Pataky, both past Grand Officers who lovingly oversaw the Pot of Gold. Their guidance and legacy reminded us that the true treasure of Rainbow lies in service, mentorship, and the generations of leaders who come before and after us.
Service is at the heart of every grand officer year. Our Grand Service Project supported the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, an organization that has been dedicated to prevention education and providing vital support to burn survivors, their families, and caregivers throughout California. Through the collective efforts of our assemblies, we raised an incredible $102,700, a powerful reflection of our commitment to compassion and community. Today, the foundation continues its important work, carrying forward the impact of the seeds we helped plant.
Our Grand year was filled with unforgettable moments, traveling together, sharing laughter, and driving throughout California, memories that still shine decades later and friendships that have truly stood the test of time.
As we reunite forty years later, we are reminded of something Marcy so beautifully shared during grand assembly. “After searching for the treasure in all corners and places of the world, we realized the treasure was here all along, in the love and service of Rainbow, in the lessons we were taught, and in one another. That IS the treasure. Today, Dragons remain active in Rainbow across Washington, California, and Nevada. We have had many “Dragon babies” proudly following in our footsteps as Grand Officers, carrying forward the same spirit of service, mentorship, and sisterhood that defined our year and continues to shape Rainbow and the communities we support. The treasure was never a destination; it has always been the legacy we share and the love that endures.
Fun Facts from Our Year As Grandies!
- Music ruled the moment: Whitney Houston topped the charts with Greatest Love of All, while Prince released Parade, tied to his film Under the Cherry Moon.
- Technology of the time: Cassette tapes and Sony Walkmans were everywhere.
- Must-see movies: Top Gun, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Pretty in Pink, and Back to the Future dominated theaters.
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- Television favorites (yes, live TV!): Miami Vice and Family Ties.
- Social hubs: Malls were the place to be, food courts, arcades, and record stores included.
- Communication style: Phones had cords, often long enough to stretch into another room.
What Things Cost in 1986
- Gas: approximately $0.90 per gallon
- Movie ticket: approximately $3.50
- New car: approximately $9,000
- Public college tuition: approximately $1,300 per year
