State Senator Jeff Wentworth and State Representative Harvey Hilderbran received the Sam Houston Award from Grand Master W. David Counts during special ceremonies Thursday evening of the 174 annual Grand Communication of the Grand Lodge of Texas.

Both were recognized for their participation in passing HB2555 (view passage video) which provides ad valorem tax realief to Masonic Lodge's accross the state of Texas.

Grand Master Counts explained the details of the process when the bill traveled before being signed by Gov. Perry to become law. He presented colorful detail of all the process that the the supporters of the bill had to complete before final passage.

Both Sen. Wentworth, a long time Mason and Rep. Hilderbran, who turned in his Masters proficency on Wednesday, received a standing ovation for the large crowd in attendance.

Also presented with the Sam Houston award by Grand Master Counts, was Bro. John Cline. Bro. Cline was recognized for many years of service to the Grand Lodge of Texas as the court reporter during the Grand Annual Communication. 

R.W. Steven Pepper was presented with the William M. Beck award. This award is presented to an active Mason at the discretion of the Grand Master. R. W. Pepper served during 2009 as the Grand Chaplain and is also serving as W.M. of Orient Lodge #905 in Knox City, TX.