Greg Mengarelli, Business Development Manager, Prescott Frontier Days®
Q: What brought you to Prescott?
A: I came to Prescott nearly 30 years ago to lead and grow United Christian Youth Camp. Prescott captured my heart. Sheila and I raised our family here, and now our kids are raising their kids here!
I’ve been blessed to support a variety of community endeavors, including serving on the Prescott Unified School District Board and as a two-term Prescott mayor.
There is no place like Prescott, and the neighborly feel combined with the quality of life and the natural beauty continue to draw new residents like I was drawn. Preserving the unique lifestyle in Yavapai County drives me and led me to my newest endeavor: running to represent my neighbors as a Yavapai County supervisor.
Q: What is the biggest reward of your job?
A: I manage the Buckle Club, which raises funds for critical capital improvements to our historic, treasured rodeo grounds. Rodeo has been in my blood for decades; it’s a staple of Prescott life.
It’s incredibly rewarding to bring people together to accomplish a goal that contributes to the vibrancy of life in our city. I am blessed to have found such a rewarding part-time position that allows me flexibility to pursue other community projects.
Q: Where would you like to vacation next and why?
A: It’s been a dream to travel with my family to the Marche region of Italy, where my Nono (Italian great-grandfather) Henry was born. He started from nothing and worked hard to provide for his family as a migrant, miner and farmer.
I would also visit Normandy. My paternal grandfather August Mengarelli served our country as a combat medic in WWII. He served in hopes his grandchildren wouldn’t have to. His first combat experience was D-Day.
Q: What is the last book you read; what did you enjoy about it most?
A: Imagine Heaven, by John Burke. This book gave me comfort after my daughter Brooklyn died and went to heaven. Through the book, I’ve learned so much about the eternal home that she is experiencing right now.
Q: What is your favorite Prescott activity?
A: The July 4th parade and rodeo. Every year our family is either in the parade or we all go together to watch the parade. Now our grandchildren are making the same memories with us!
The rodeo is another family tradition, and we especially enjoy the display of faith and freedom, the opening prayer, the national anthem and honoring our military and first responders.
