Mesquite's Finest Recognized at The 2024 BRE Annual Awards / City of Mesquite Economic Development

On January 23, 2025, the Mesquite Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Task Force took center stage at the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, presenting a total of eight prestigious business awards. Recognizing both outstanding Mesquite businesses and community members, the BRE Awards celebrated their notable contributions. Here is a glimpse of the 2024 Award Winners.

Baker Triangle was honored with the Business Legacy Award by The City of Mesquite Economic Development Department, presented by Alberto Rivera, Manager of Economic Development. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Baker Triangle continues to demonstrate excellence and innovation in its industry. The award was accepted by Director of Technology Cameron Cranford and Chief Operating Officer Debbie Brocker.

From left to right: Alberto Rivera, Manager of Economic Development, Cameron Cranford, Director of Technology and Debbie Brocker ,Chief Operations Officer of Baker Triangle; City of Mesquite; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Downtown Mesquite, represented by Downtown Development Coordinator, James Johnson, was honored to present the Downtowner of the Year award to Mark and Carolyn Stoddard, accepted on their behalf by their daughter, Cassie Clayton. Their invaluable contributions through the Downtown Development Advisory Board and Design Committee have played a significant role in enhancing our community, fostering growth, and supporting local businesses and residents.

From left to right: Lisa Haar, Downtown Development Advisory Board President; James Johnson, Downtown Mesquite Coordinator; Cassie Clayton, Daughter of Mark and Carolyn Stoddard; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite;

The Visit Mesquite Partner of the Year Award was presented to the Mesquite Arena by Kim Buttram, Director of Economic Development, in recognition of its exceptional contributions to promoting and enhancing tourism in our community. The dedicated team at Mesquite Arena has continually exceeded expectations by hosting signature events, including its longstanding partnership with the iconic Mesquite Championship Rodeo. While honoring the rich traditions of the rodeo, Mesquite Arena has also embraced modern trends, offering a diverse array of events that attract and engage a broad audience.

From left to right: Kim Buttram, Director of Economic Development, City of Mesquite; Robin Rodriguez, Hillary Lozano, Mesquite Arena; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Dallas College honored Big Hit Creative as its 2024 Partner of the Year in recognition of the company’s impactful contributions to the Dallas College community. Through its dedication and innovative efforts, Big Hit Creative has played a vital role in supporting the college’s mission, fostering student success, and enhancing community engagement. This award highlights the company’s commitment to collaboration and excellence, strengthening the connection between education and industry.

From left to right: Sharon Cook, Dallas College Eastfield Campus Administrator; Glenn Bradley, Creative Director & Marketing Strategist and Lakeitha Bradley, Director of Operations at Big Hit Creative; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas recognized Hexagon Purus as the 2024 Workforce Solutions Employer of the Year for the City of Mesquite. The award, presented by Vickey Jackson and Steven Bridges and accepted by Alex Keklikian, was honored to accept the award. The award honors Hexagon Purus for its commitment to workforce development, job creation, and contributions to the local economy.

Hexagon Purus, a global leader in zero-emission mobility solutions, operates a 216,000-square-foot facility at 2401 East Meadows Blvd. The company’s commitment to innovation and workforce development has made a significant impact on the local economy, reinforcing Mesquite’s position as a hub for clean technology and advanced manufacturing.

From left to right: Steven Bridges, Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas; Vickey Jackson, Business Solutions Leader; Alex Keklikian, Director of Operations Hexagon Purus; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Mesquite Independent School District recognized Dallas Regional Medical Center as the 2024 Partner of the Year. The award, presented by Kristi Krajca and accepted by CEO of Dallas Regional Medical Center, Josiah De La Garza, acknowledges the medical center’s outstanding support and partnership with the district, reflecting its commitment to the health and well-being of the community.

From left to right: Vince Falsarella, Director of Marketing & Communications, Becky McIntire, Director of Business Development, Josiah De La Garza (Chief Executive Officer), Heather Watson, Director of ER (all with Dallas Regional Medical Center); Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Alexander Helgar, President of the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, announced The Nehemiah Company as the recipient of the 2024 Partner of the Year award. Nipun Gadhok and Liliana Soto Atenza from The Nehemiah Company graciously accepted the award and shared insights into the impactful work the company has carried out in the City of Mesquite.

From left to right: Alexander Helgar, President Mesquite Chamber of Commerce; Liliana Soto Atenza and Nipun Gadhok, The Nehemiah Company; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

Alberto Rivera, Economic Development Manager, presented Espadas Brazilian Steakhouse with the 2024 Retailer of the Year Award. Visionary owners Raul and Joaquin Almanza accepted the award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Mesquite’s retail landscape and their dedication to delivering exceptional food and service. Their journey began at La Pulga Seagoville, where they operated for three and a half years before opening their first brick-and-mortar location in August 2024.

From left to right: Alberto Rivera, Manager of Economic Development, City of Mesquite; Raul and Joaquin Almanza, Owners of Espada's Brazilian Steakhouse; Mayor Daniel Alemán Jr., City of Mesquite

The 2024 BRE Annual Awards ceremony drew an amazing crowd, including notable dignitaries such as Mayor Dan Alemán Jr., City Manager Cliff Keheley, and Mesquite ISD Superintendent Dr. Ángel Rivera. We express our gratitude to the Mesquite ISD Education Foundation for sponsoring the luncheon, and Dallas College Eastfield Campus for providing the venue.

The Business Retention & Expansion Task Force is a partnership of Mesquite’s core economic development stakeholder organizations, including the City of Mesquite, Mesquite Independent School District, Dallas College, Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas, the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, Forney Independent School District, and the University of Texas at Dallas. The task force is dedicated to empowering and supporting existing employers, employees, and entrepreneurs within the community. For additional information, the City of Mesquite Economic Development Department can be contacted at 972-216-6446.