George & Necia Yax•Honor Tribute

"A Simple 'Thank You' From One Brother To Another"

Larry 'Duffer' Dunham • ATO 1961

"Although I am in the process of producing a long overdue Tribute to George and Necia, I think Brother Bert Hervey's words that follows, says it all.

HIs heart-felt testament to George is from a Brother who himself, has led a remarkable life. And, who has put his Life on the Line time and again during his 30-year military career, like many of our Brothers, in the defense of our Great Country".

•

Bert Hervey • Don 1958 • ATO 1960

"George has brought generations of Dons and ATO's together renewing past dear and memorable relationships, and creating new friendships between Brothers from many different decades. This gift enables each of us to benefit from a shared experience only gained through personal and direct contact.

And, although modest, I offer a simple Thank You to George and Necia." Love & Respect

Charlie Adams • ATO 1962

Dear Necia and George, last night I Looked at my e-mail for the first time in several weeks. I was not aware of the Tribute that Duffer organized, and regret that I was not the first to recognize your contributions to the ATO endeavors.

I am confident that the majority of the comments regarding the tribute delt with the reunion, board meetings, and special events. That’s as it should be and well deserved. That said there are two specific things that I wish to thank both of you for.

The Monument

This monument means a great deal to me. I have a tradition or custom that centers around this beautiful monument and the site on which it stands. When I first arrive at the Ranch for an event, my first stop is at the monument. I get out of my truck, walk to the monument and place my hands on the sides of the upper plate. I look over the valley and take in the beauty that nature has provided for us to observe. There I can reflect on the past events that have taken place at your home – all is good ! The last thing I do is say a prayer. Sometimes I continue to stand, other times I will bend a knee. I ask God to bless the event and protect those attending. Afterwards I continue to the Ranch House.

The Hunts

These hunts mean so much to the service members that have been lucky enough to attend. I don’t know who enjoys the hunts more, the sponsors and workers or the warriors. The recognition and respect that these folks receive at the Ranch, is for many a truly life-changing gift. These hunts will be remembered for the rest of the lives of the service men and women.

I get frustrated because I can’t find the words to express the gratitude and thanks you so richly deserve, so JUST THANK YOU !

May the good Lord bless you and keep you safe. Love & Respect. Charlie

To George & Necia

"The wonderful generosity shown by Necia and George spans decades. From the Inaugural 1998 Zeta Mu Alumni Trail's End Ranch Annual Reunions, to the Life Changing Hunt For Heroes, the SHSU Faculty & ATO Member's Summits at Trail's End Ranch, to the Construction and Dedication of the ATO Zeta Mu Lodge, and countless other acts of kindness, the Yax's have opened their Hearts and their Beautiful Trail's End Ranch, to thousands of Dons & ATO Brothers and Friends .

It goes without saying, every Don and ATO, along with the Thousands of Friends and Guests, have wanted to thank the Yax's, a Thousand times over.

And yet, everyone of us has felt that a simple Thank You just did not measure up to their Overwhelming Kindness, Hospitality, and Sincere Generosity, year, after year, after...

So George and Necia, we reached out to the Brotherhood and they responded. Below you can scroll the Personal Love and Genuine Heartfelt Thanks from those Brothers who have experienced your Love and Kindness and your Magnificent Generosity.

WE All THANK YOU • Duffer

Personal Tributes From The Dons & ATO Brothers

Roger Adams • ATO 1963

Thanks for everything you have done for the Alumni Association and the Active Chapter. You are not only a Great Brother but a Great Brother in law. Thanks, Roger.

Mike Pevoto • ATO 1965

Duffer, I just wanted to tell you that without George I would not be an ATO, and

George’s giving to Zeta Mu ATO is only exceeded by his obvious love for his Brothers! A Man among Men! Remember Jesus loves you, but I’m His favorite!

Mike "Turtle' Davis • ATO 1960 • Asst. Pledge Trainer

I guess we all could write volumes about what George and Necia have done for us bunch of misfits (supposed to be only ONE sentence), Zeta Mu Alumni, but I a not sure it would be enough to show our gratitude for their sacrifices over the last 20 some years. I for one have seen George and Necia’s generosity on a personal basis and what is so astonishing is they don’t see it as anything out of the ordinary. We all have seen George contribute large amounts of both money, time and energy into our Alumni and the Active Chapter on campus at Sam, time after time. Again, he never looked for any kind of special thanks, just doing what George does, helping keep this organization moving along. And what we all forget sometimes, is the Lady behind the Man. Necia, has turned her home over to us many times a year for Reunions, Hunts for Heroes, special meetings and of course the many times some of us have had the privilege of bringing our families and friends up for a weekend. I wonder how many of us would be that gracious that many times a year for all these years? There are not too many people that I have known in my years on the earth that exemplify the old saying, “give you the shirt of their back”, but I would have to put the Yax Team right up front. George and Necia have my vote for Mr. and Mrs. Zeta Mu. No one can ever fill their shoes. • L&R Turtle

Jonathan Wagner • ATO 2005 • W.M. 2006-2007

George and Necia, it's very hard to put into words the impact you had on me, both as an active ATO and beyond. So many wonderful memories. From my first trip to the reunion, to bringing my young family out to the ranch, and everything in between, your graciousness and love is something I cherish and try to emulate in my own life. Love and respect and prayers of peace for your family.

James 'Cuz' Chandler • ATO 2003

I was told that this could only be one sentence so I won't use any periods (cheater!)
George and Necia - I can not convey in strong enough terms what you have done for our Active and Alumni Zeta Mu Chapters No person or group of people have done, or could have done, what each of you have, individually and collectively, at great personal expense in time and money Both of you have left a footprint that can never be filled, and you are loved, respected, and appreciated, more than you can ever know.

Bob Peters • ATO 1962 (50 year pledgeship over 2011)

George and Necia, you have made Zeta Mu the envy of all other chapters, you have enriched the lives of first responders and veterans, and you have made me a worthy ATO and personal friend, THANK YOU.

George's Vision Became The Greatest Reunion Of All Time

Robert 'Rat' Browning • ATO 1963 • W.C.

Thank you George, for teaching us all the meaning of "Brotherhood".

Marvin Edens • ATO 1964

Thanks for all you have done, and for being the greatest for ATO and as a Brother!

Byron 'Zipper' Richards • ATO 1964

George and Necia: How gracious and welcoming you have been In hosting the Zeta Mu reunions over the years at your beautiful home. God’s blessings on your family.

Mark Beto • ATO 1966

Thank you for your leadership, generosity, fellowship, and friendship, for without them Zeta Mu and its alumni association would not be the same and, quite possibly, would not even exist today. L&R

Mike Hazelrigs • ATO 1979

George’s direct impact drove me to be more giving and grateful in my personal life, resulting in renewed relationships and personal contentment. Love & Respect

Pete 'Kutch' Kucera • ATO 1966

My thanks to George & Necia for the opportunity to renew Brotherhood and Friendship with ATOs I knew at SHSU; and get to create Brotherhood and Friendship with Dons and ATOs I did not know! Love & Respect

Birthplace Of The Zeta Mu Trail's End Ranch Annual Reunions

Robert Earl Huston • ATO 1961

My thank you to George and Necia, all the things we come to love would have never happened without your unconditional generosity that has enriched the lives of so many of us – Thank you, Thank you!

Jack Douglas • ATO 2003

I don't have the words to express how much what you and Necia have done for us, our Brotherhood, and me personally, means to me. Thank you seems inadequate!
Love you both.

Carter Heckethorn • ATO 2016 • M.E.

As a younger alumni I was able to witness some of the biggest contributions you both made to the chapter, aside from the use of the ranch. Thank you once again for contributing to the lodge, a place where the chapter will continue to flourish. We are all extremely blessed to have the two of you who continue to have faith in the chapter and share your successes for our betterment. You both are the definition of selflessness, thank you again.

A. W. Radle • Don 1959 • ATO 1960

George, it goes without saying how much I have "grown" since becoming involved with you, the younger ATOs and the Trails End Ranch. I am so thankful for this enormous opportunity. I would also like to state on behalf of our founder, Charley Hodges, that he was astonished at what his little Dons organization had become. Charley and I were fairly close, we talked a lot and I don't recall a single time that he didn't bring up the subject of George Yax, the ATOs and and all that you were making available out at your ranch. It has been an amazing accomplishment -- something that will never be duplicated by any other Fraternity or Sorority. A mere "thank you" seems so inadequate but I assure you mine is coming from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, George and Necia ... may the good Lord continue to bless you guys always. Much love & respect, A W Radle

Kirk Headley • ATO 2012 Honor Initiate

I am extremely grateful that George Yax honored me to be nominated and accepted by the ATO Zeta Mu, as a brother. George and Ms. Necia’s tremendous generosity given to myself and my family, to be welcomed at their home, ranch and family. I have eternal respect, admiration and appreciation to George as my mentor, teacher and friend. Love you Big G

John Gresham • Don 1959 • ATO 1960

George and Necia, your generosity in hosting our reunions over the years was instrumental in the creation of what has to be one of the strongest fraternity alumni associations in existence, prompting us to offer a well deserved vote of THANKS!

Trail's End Ranch Welcomed Warriors To The Hunt for Heroes

Webb 'Webbo' Melder • ATO 1968 W. V. P.

Salute Brother Yax & Necia, Trail's End Ranch in Medina is where it all began. Thank you both for your love, friendship and generosity so graciously shown over the many years. You offered us all a Blessed opportunity to reflect on our history, which opened the door to share our support for those walking where we have been. You have shared and given so much to so many. Stay Blessed.

Mac Woodward • ATO 1967

Words are not adequate to express my appreciation and gratitude to you and Necia. For years you have given of your time, resources, and yourselves for the benefit of ATO, Dons and Zeta Mu. We would not be where we are today without your both. George and Necia have and continue to define and exemplify the spirit and meaning of Brotherhood in every way and more. You both deserve all our Love and Respect.

Boyd 'Bo' Roberts • ATO 1967

You have given so much to all of us and we will be forever thankful for your generosity and love.

Woody Woods • ATO 1966

Words are not adequate to express our thanks for your love and dedication to the Dons and Zeta Mu ATOs over these many years and events. Love and Respect

Carl Watson • ATO 1980 • W. U. & W. S.

Thanks so very much for your kindness and generosity throughout the years! I’ve only had the pleasure of making one trip to the ranch (Hunt for Heros), but you made me feel like I had been there a hundred times! Your support for the Dons and the Zeta Mu Chapter has been above and beyond, thank you.

Sonny Shaddix. • ATO 1965 • Secretary

George was the W. M. in 1965, and was the main reason I became an ATO. As on “old Army guy” he knew how to run a tight ship, which paid then and in years to come.

Wounded Warriors Said "Trail's End Ranch Was Best By Far"

David McGhee • ATO 1966

A heartfelt thank you to you and Necia for bringing back shared memories and creating new ones with a brotherhood that has lasted a lifetime.

Brett Taylor • ATO 1974

Dear George and Necia, April is a special time of the year because of your generosity in hosting the Reunions held at the Trail's End Ranch for the Dons and ATO Brotherhood. Forever thankful.

John Simmons • ATO 1966

George was Worthy Master when I pledged. He also was my Geography teacher where I was given a hard earned “D” and became a neophyte the next semester. Obviously, my Big Brother, Roland Adamson did a lousy job of lobbying for a better grade on my behalf.

I sincerely want to thank both George and Necia for opening their home to all of us for so many years. It meant so much to all of us to re-connect and stay connected after becoming a member of more than 50 years ago.

In 2017, I was recognized by Sam Houston with the Distinguished Alumni Award. That would have never happened without George’s influence and hard work by him and other members of ATO. That was a honor I will never forget, nor will I forget all of my Brothers who went out of their way to attend the ceremony.

Thank Ya'll for all you do and have done for the members of our fraternity!

Dan Forney • ATO 1980

Merry Christmas George and Necia,

As 2020 comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your enormous contribution to the success and sustainability of the Zeta Mu brotherhood. Without your efforts, I would not know so many brothers who I now have as life long friends.

The experiences we have shared together at the Annual reunions, BOD meetings, Hunt for Heroes, leadership events, etc. have made a remarkable impact on those who have participated and for me personally, they have been a highlight of my life. In addition to my own personal benefit, it's knowing that you have helped set an example for so many to follow in giving of your time, talents and treasure to bring something meaningful to the brotherhood experience as life continues after college.

Without you and Mac Woodward, we would not have a lodge for undergraduate ATOs to build their own relationships. Without you, I would have been overwhelmed with the daily grind of managing undergraduates long ago. You have been an inspiration, reliable partner and tireless visionary for our organization and I personally appreciate all that you do and stand for.

So, as soon as the 2020 pandemic has subsided, I look forward to seeing you again.

Love and Respect,

Jim Castle • ATO 2065

George & Necia, I am so appreciative to have been a part of all your hospitality , generosity, and the great events over the years. Thanks to you, the reunions have kept more of the brothers in much closer contact. A sincere Thank You & God Bless.

Bert 'Hoxy' Bates • ATO 1962

Thank you both for hosting our ATO reunion these many years at the most beautiful ranch in Texas. Our First Annual Runion and Hog Hunt held April 3-5 1998, began a series of events that were beyond compare. I treasure my T shirt commemorating that first meeting with the names of all present. Thanks for the memories!

George Loves ATO Zeta Mu And Showed It Many Times Over

Frank Heide • ATO 1962

Do you remember our trip to Colorado just prior to Zeta Mu initiation in September, 1962? I believe one of you had relatives in Colorado Springs or Denver. We made the trip without incident except for a rear wheel bearing going out in Brenham on the way home.

You are such good people I wish we lived closer to your, the Hill Country and everyone else. This is a good reason why most people never leave Texas.

GOD bless and remember you are Well Loved.

Kenny Wamble • ATO 2009 Honor Initiate

As a Teenager 'I want to party with those guys' to a Man honored to be an ATO.

First of all I write this heartfelt “Thank You” not only from me but from Brother “Worm”. The love and kindness extended to both of us goes far beyond friendship and into a realm of a Spiritual Brotherhood that will live on for eternity.

For me personally, you and Necia have been an inspiration to strive for excellence in living life filled with kindness, unselfishness and unconditional Love. From the time I first met you in my teenage years at the ATO house to and through the Trails End Reunions my heart has never deviated from the pinnacle of admiration.

For 'Worm', Well there was you and Brother “Worm” and the Vauxhall engine rebuild. The days in Crockett, Louisiana, Europe, and the list goes on of fellowship you all experienced and more importantly, the endless stories I heard about priceless fun and living life to its fullest. Out of all of the relationships I witnessed as his little brother growing up.

I have never experienced the joy he expressed when he spoke of you and Necia. Your kindness and love for him kept me in awe of the ATO brotherhood that I once considered a symbol, or rather a philosophy, but then the reality of of you and Necia made it evolve into a living eternal Brotherhood that will live in my heart forever.

I never realized the deepness of the ATO Brotherhood until I began my journey as an Honorary recipient of being initiated and received as member of the Zeta Mu chapter of ATO. It certainly was the wish and dream of Brother “Worm” and as you know, I felt so unworthy and undeserving of receiving such an honor and truly struggled with the pressure of carrying on the legacy of Brother “Worm”.

Since my Initiation and the emotional roller coaster ride I put myself through, today I can honestly say because of you I proudly testify the Virtue, Love and Respect it deserves, “I Am An ATO”, and I will carry this honor proudly forever and ever.

John 'Snake' Kinzer • ATO 1961 W.K.E.

My wife summed it up best, "After having a national officer attend the reunion a number of years ago, I told her that his comment was that he had never seen an event like this this from any other ATO chapter and her comment was “no other chapters have an alumni like George Yax”.

The second was a statement by 'Worm' that the annual reunion was for him, the most important event of the year in his life!

Ken Haynes • Don & ATO 1960 • W. M.

George, because of your hospitality we were able to meet, know and enjoy brothers from all age groups. I will always be grateful to you for this opportunity.

Joe Smith • ATO 1964

George Yax put the "rush" on me when I went to Sam Houston (1964) and I bought in! I was involved in his and Necia's wedding....that should say it all....but doesn't.

I was a sophomore and George a senior and we roomed to together at college. That year was a "turning point" for me as I learned so much about our fraternity and its history. Needless to say, I still carry so much of that with me 55 years later. Added to that is the privilege of being involved with George (and his bride Necia) in helping to rekindle...and start a few,,,,relationships through the Zeta Mu reunion.

I would go so far as to say, I doubt that you could find such hospitality, graciousness, and giving nature as you will find with George and Necia Yax...they truly are the "poster couple" for what it means to be the highest of quality hosts!

What a blessing to have them in our lives....

Roy 'Bird' Harper • ATO 2008 • W. M.

Don’t let this go to your head, but Connie and I love you two and enjoy so much the time we get to spend together…let’s get this Covid out of the way and play some Bridge!

The Lord blessed you with Trail's End Ranch and since then you have devoted uncounted hours and sweat and dollars to make it the remarkable paradise it is today…and you’re still at it, working the long arm or some piece of equipment almost every day.

But let’s talk about your unselfish generosity. You commented once that if someone wasn’t enjoying the ranch every single day; then it was a waste. You have lived that philosophy a million times over, being the ever-so-gracious hosts to just about anybody who showed up.

Finally, you truly adopted for sure our ATO Zeta Mu tribe, even when we disappointed you time and time again. Your hospitality, advise, money, tough love, inspiration…that’s your legacy.

Well done you two. Hogs and kisses, Roy and Connie Harper.

Stan Holt • ATO 2014 • 'Longest Hold-Over Pledge in ATO History'

Hey George Hey Necia, what a joy it is to be a part of this tribute to you both.

George you probably didn’t think of yourself having a positive impact on a young life when we where in school way back when, but you did. Our pledge class should still feel the influence you brought to the table in there lives then, and today you were a class act in the 60’s as you are today.

Thank you for being instrumental in bringing us all together at this time in our lives, and Necia what a wonderful wife and partner you are to allow this group of knot heads take over your home every year so we have place to get together to verify once again that ATO’s never really grow up completely.

God bless and keep you during this difficult time. Hopefully we all be together again soon, and laugh out loud again.

As always Love and respect, your brother in this life and the next. Stan & Sheila Holt

Kindness & Generosity Are Spelled "Yax"

Aaron Agundez • ATO 2003 • Founding Father

Dear George and Necia Yax, I truly want to thank you for all you have done over the years for the Zeta Mu Chapter. As a founding father from the early colonization in 2002, you helped pave the way for the chapter to continue at Sam Houston and for that alone I am grateful.

ATO has always been a leadership fraternity but you and all of the early Don's and ATO's continue to lead by example and that is what helped me becoming the man I am today. You did not just stop there, you continued to be so generous to the chapter financially, even sharing your valuable time on the Board of Trustees where I was able to serve alongside you for a few years.

You and your wife have always been greatly appreciated for all the many years you have hosted the wonderful reunions and I was glad I was able to make a few. Cheers my friends. Love & Respect, Aaron.

Roland Adamson • ATO 1965

George and Necia, you are the most gracious, kind and generous people I've had the privilege to call friends.

Your willingness to share the Trail's End Ranch with 100's of Sam Houston State University Don's, Alpha Tau Omega Zeta Mu Alumni, Active Members, University Administrators and Wounded Warrior participants over the past 20 plus years has been a life changing blessing to me and numerous others.

Thank you very much for all you've done. Roland Adamson

Bobby Dean • ATO 1968

I would like to share my experience that I had the first time that I went to the ATO reunion at the Trail's End Ranch.

After getting there and settling in George gave me a personal tour of his home and afterwards he also took me out to see the awesome ranch that is absolutely breathtaking, mind you this is a person that I had never met in my life. He was such a generous host who made me feel so welcome, I wish I could have met Necia to tell her how much I enjoyed her beautiful home.

We are so blessed to be able to call George Yax Brother. Bobby Dean 1968 Worthy Usher L&R

Colton Jackson • ATO 2008 • Treasurer

You always here folks say, “it’s the little things that count”. In my case, that is how I feel about you.

While I have not had many outings with you, anything you’ve taken part in was to benefit others. As an Undergrad, we didn’t really know who we should thank, but we now know. Being at the ATO lodge several days a week, really was like a second home with all your family in it.

There are countless memories there that I’ll have for my lifetime. I had the luxury of visiting the Trail's End Ranch not only for the Reunion, but for a weekend stay with my wife. We were treated like an executive guest and we had a blast.

The world needs more caring folks like you and Necia, and I can say from me, you are greatly appreciated!

Tom Evans • ATO 1961

My Tribute to George and Necia Yax is for their exemplary Patriotism. As a fellow ATO brother and Veteran, I have always known George to be foremost in his love of country, it’s military and family (including the ATO family).

A fond remembrance of putting their support into action was when my wife Mary and I joined the Peace Corps after retiring and as Senior Citizens in 2002, I found an opportunity to organize a WW2 tribute to the South Pacific people of Tarawa where we were serving and the American’s who died there in 1944, liberating the island from the Japanese.

I sought funds to stage a first class event on the 60th Anniversary of the “Bloody Battle of Tarawa”. The first person I thought of to help fund this was George Yax. I knew his

Army service and patriotic pride would respond on any level. My goal was to let others who cared participate. I requested that he and Necia outfit the 65 Peace Corps volunteers with a special T-shirt for the event; about $300 in cost. George’s only request was in what form the money was to be sent. He said that even if it was in Clams he’d send it. George even said he would send more if needed.

The event was a grand success. George and Necia were only one of the sources providing funds that day, but the only other veteran and friend that I valued the most in this small gift because, I knew they would want to take part in it.

Thank you George and Necia for this and many other great memories. Love & Respect, Tom.

Gordon Koenig • ATO 1968

Dear George and Necia, If it were not for your loving and generous nature in opening your hearts and home to all of the Dons and ZM alumni, I would have likely never had the honor and pleasure of meeting you.

Not only that, but because of your kindness in allowing us to come to the Trail's End Ranch for the ATO ZM Reunion, I have gotten to meet Dons and ATOs that I had only known by seeing their photos on composites that hung in the ATO house; as well as those that came after my time at Sam Houston. As a result, my life has been enriched beyond belief.

To say that I have the utmost love and respect for you would be a great understatement. On behalf of all the Dons and ATOs, I want to thank you for all you have done for us, and in doing so you have garnered the utmost caring and love from all of us to both of you. With that being said, we are all here for you just like you have been here for us.

Yours with true Love and Respect, Gordon Koenig

Necia & George And Their Welcome Wagon Love & Respect

Wendel 'Spot' Bailey • Don 1959 & ATO 1960

George and Necia, I don't know the proper words to express my (our) gratitude for all your generosity not only to all the Brotherhood but also to our spouses .

All the reunions were great, but the board meetings and hero hunts were very special also. Your opening your home and facilities have created memories that will never be forgotten and produced an Alumni Association Bond that will never be exceeded by any other group.

Personally, I thank you both for letting me roam free in the kitchen and sleep in almost every bed (except bunkhouse). I look forward to our next meeting where ever, when ever. Love & Respect. Wendell

Dennis Congdon • ATO 1971

You were already gone when I showed up at SHSU so I didn’t get to know you then.

I knew of your name, saw your pictures, but considered you as one of the giants of our ATO chapter

that went before… “talked about but never to know”. Thanks for closing that gap by opening up

your ranch for the yearly reunions. I’ve enjoyed coming and getting to know you and all the

other giants. You definitely helped to “bind men together…” Thank you, Dennis Congdon.

Gary Barnett • ATO 1966 • W. M. 1969

Y'all's kindness and Generosity have provided many ATO Brothers memories that will last forever! Memories not only for our Brothers, but for the Wounded Warriors who were able to enjoy brotherhood with ATO's who respect and appreciate their sacrifice to keep us free! Thank you for all you have done! Gary Barnett

Jim Marsh • ATO 1967

Merry Christmas, “Big” Brother George and Necia, Christmases are made merrier each year for many veterans, ATO Brothers and others who are the benefactors of your unselfish generosity.

The Zeta Mu Chapter is blessed to have a Brother of your magnitude and all of us are moved by how you and Necia further the growth of the Chapter by opening your ranch to past and present Chapter members.

Love and respect, Little Brother Jim Marsh

'Diamond' Jim Danklefs • ATO 1972

Hi, George, it was several years after the reunion started before I could attend! Every year Tippy would come by and try to get me to attend. In 2002 I decided I should go and that was the best decision I ever made!

I attended every year after that place at the most incredible place in the world for our bunch to have a reunion! You were the most gracious host possible, the lodging accommodations were great, the meal facilities were great, and the activities were great! I never missed a year after my first visit to your ranch!

I enjoyed seeing Brothers I had not seen for many years and meeting ATOs and DON's I had never met!

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for letting me join in these reunions.

I hope you and Necia have a very enjoyable Christmas season, and many thanks George!

Benny Ray • Don 1959 & ATO 1960

Duffer, please extend my thanks and gratitude to George and Necia Yax for all they have done for the Dons and ATO's.

Living in Austin I encounter many people who are members of various fraternities. None have had the Alumni experiences that we , from Sam Houston State have been fortunate to receive. Without a doubt, we would not have enjoyed these without the open invitations to the Trail's End Ranch. I am sure the donation of your facilities and time has been an expensive undertaking.

We have been able to keep up with and physically see our important and lasting relationships we made at such an impressionable time in our lives. I cherish each and every brother I have from both of our organizations.

Thank You and yo all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Love & Respect

If ATO Had A John Wayne, His Name Would Be "Yax"

Steve 'Bucky' Keer • ATO 1966

George and Necia, I want to personally thank you both for all the work you have done for the Dons and ATO's, and for Necia letting us invade y'alls home and beautiful Ranch. Thank you, Steve Kerr.

Joe 'Whappo' Grillo • ATO 19xx

Wow, I'm happy to offer this Tribute to George and Necia. I've enjoyed the reunions, food, their beautiful ranch, and your land and home are wonderful.

It was always great times being around all my brothers, but I didn’t realize the true meaning of what the reunions did for me. Yes it was fun, but it wasn’t until my wife died that I realized how important the reunion at your ranch meant to me. After Jan death I felt alone, even with family I felt alone.

I went to the reunion with great pain. Being around you and all my brothers helped me find joy and gave me hope. It brought me out of my shell and I found that I was not alone.

Like everyone, I miss not having the reunion this year. But, what I miss most of all is your funny laugh and you walking around with a glass of wine and a cigar.

Thank you for the use of your hospitality and most of all, for you and Necia.

Love and Respect, Joe Grillo.

Bruce Barns • ATO 1968

Dear George and Necia, I hope that this holiday season of 2020 finds you both doing well.

I have had the opportunity to enjoy activities and hospitality at the Trail's End Ranch for several years, and I have always been welcomed as a brother and a friend. I want to sincerely thank you for opening your home and hearts to me and all the Brotherhood.

I look forward to visiting with you in the new year! Love & Respect, Bruce Barnes.

David Ferreo • ATO 1975

For to many years I was inactive with ATO, and ignorant of how important its sustainability would be.

Since graduating from SHSU in 1977, I focused on a variety of responsibilities but always kept the ATO Brothers in my heart. Watching from the sidelines though takes it toll as the aging process continues.

I don’t think anyone can ever measure what George and Necia have done, both on keeping the ATO spirit alive, but also having a dramatic positive effect on the individual Brothers. I come from a family with three sisters and no brothers. The season I had at SHSU will always be cherished, and my Brothers I met there hold a special place in me. But watching how George provided such a positive influence on Brothers that started in Dons, to current Zeta Mu members actives was really cool.

George and I had a chance to meet and discuss leadership at one of the reunions. Those conversations reinforced the strong belief I have in that it is tough to teach leadership to adults. The traits necessary to be successful have to start at an early age. George not only recognized that but his service through others provided the catalyst for growth, both for individuals and the entire organization. He maximized the talents of others in order to provide the greater good.

George and Necia, thank you for your unselfish service. Your sacrifices are much appreciated and I for one am proud to call you are part of my family.

Virtue Truth Love, David Ferrero

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Forever Grateful For Your Reunion Vision & Hospitality

The Reunion Genesis began at the 1997 Patio Get Together

It all began that eventful evening in 1997. When George invited Roy 'Bird' Harper and Joe Smith to share in a wee drop of the Grape, on his patio at Trail's End Ranch. Then George had an Epiphany...

ATO Zeta Mu Annual Reunion at Trail's End Ranch

The Reunion Genesis began at the 1997 Patio Get Together

The Vision George had was a result of the three Brothers reminiscing about 'the good ole times' at Sam, and wondering where and what were some of the Zeta Mu Brothers doing...

Our 20+ Year Tradition Began with Your Vision

The Reunion Genesis began at the 1997 Patio Get Together

Our 20+ Year Tradition Began with Your Vision

The more wine they shared, the more were remembered, so they began to make some calls. The result was, "let's invite our Brothers to get together... Our Annual Reunion was Born...

1st Reunion • 1998

2020 • Covid 19 • Future Reunions

Our 20+ Year Tradition Began with Your Vision

As more Brothers were called, more interest was generated and the idea grew into a reality in 1998.

2019 Reunion

2020 • Covid 19 • Future Reunions

In 2019 we held our 22nd and last reunion at Trail's End Ranch... is this the end of an Era?

2020 • Covid 19 • Future Reunions

There is still uncertainty about the 'China Plague', but Our Brotherhood is Resilient...