
| Rusty Wier Hearing was musician Rusty Wier's last sense to go, so although he was unresponsive when surrounded by relatives and friends, including Jerry Jeff Walker, at his son Coby's house in Driftwood on Thursday night, Wier tried to raise up his head when the group sang "Amazing Grace." By the next morning the Austin musician, who had a hit when Bonnie Raitt covered his "Don't It Make You Wanna Dance" on the soundtrack to "Urban Cowboy," was dead after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 65. "There's this myth about the hippies and the rednecks meeting at the Armadillo and passing joints and Lone Stars to each other," Austin musician John Inmon said. "But the rednecks and hippies were the same people. That was Rusty. He was a redneck son of Central Texas, but he was also a hippie." Although Wier got his own chapter in Jan Reid's book "The Improbable Rise of Redneck Rock," which chronicled Austin's "cosmic cowboy" scene of the '70s, Wier's contribution to Austin music goes back to the mid-'60s. As a student at Southwest Texas State, the Manchaca-raised Wier was recruited to play drums in the Wig, Austin's answer to the Monkees. He later played drums and sang in the Lavender Hill Express, a popular country/rock cover band. But he wanted to step out front. "One day he just gave up the drums and started woodshedding on guitar," said Inmon, who played with Wier in the trio of Rusty, Layton and John. "He locked himself in a room and practiced and practiced. He was a natural entertainer, so he could get his music across, but it took him awhile to get good." He established himself in the early '70s as a folk singer with rock 'n' roll eyes and a ever-present, low-crowned black hat. Wier's first three albums - Stoned, Slow, Rugged in 1974, Don't It Make You Wanna Dance in 1975, and Black Hat Saloon in 1976 - came out on three different major labels. But in the clubs is where he made his money. "Bartenders loved Rusty," musician Bob Livingston said. "He had this thing during his show where he'd hold up a shot of tequila and everybody would go to the bar to buy their shots. Bar business was always good when Rusty played." Wier played the Saxon Pub every Thursday for almost 15 years, almost never missing a gig, owner Joe Ables said. "He played the Saxon one last time in March," Ables said. "He was so sick I had to carry him to his wheelchair, but he was in a great mood. People had come from all over to see him. He truly got to find out that he was loved." A memorial service will probably take place at the Saxon, Ables said, though details are still being worked out with the family. He's survived by four children from four different wives, Inmon said. |

| Click the Photo below to view "Best Friends are Family!" Photo along w/ a few others in the flick captured by Daniel Martz (Thanks Daniel! : ) |
| I had the wonderful opportunity of being one of the many guitars to break the World record for the most guitars playing simultaneously at Luckenbach this past Sunday. The two songs being performed while setting the Guiness Book of World Records for most guitars played was "This Land is Your Land" and "Luckenbach Texas". Im not exactly sure what the final count was of guitarist present (I quit counting when they gave me # 2121), but I do know that we beat out the old record that was set in Germany by over a thousand plus guitarist. I had a wonderful time bouncing around the crowded guitarist in hopes of capturing the energy that the unity brought to everyone there. I think I achieved my goal! I feel as if I turned another memory into a purpose of understanding. Enjoy the show friends! Peace and Love, Wesley |

| Prayers and Praises for Jordan Precious Jordan, now age 9, has a rare and incurable form of Epilepsy known as Dravet Syndrome (formally known as SMEI or Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy). She has suffered from Seizures since she was 6 months old. She is the bravest, smartest, sweetest, prettiest little girl we know and every day she is "A Hero". Jordan (2 of my dearest friends sweet little girl) has suffered from seizures since she was 6 months old; she had her 1st seizure the day of her 6 month immunizations, due to a high fever. Her 2nd seizure was at 8 or 9 months old due to an ear infection and high fever. Her 3rd seizure was the day of her 12 month immunizations due to a high fever. From there on out they started her 1st anti-convulsant medication and as time went on, they have gone through approximately 15 different other anticonvulsants, her seizures have continued to worsen and progress over the years, as well as her disabilities. She is now on 4 seperate anti-convulsants, nine medications total per day. She has a vagel nerve stimulator (installed in Oct. '04), uses the wheelchair from time to time when seizures are worse or if outings are lengthy. Part of her dravet syndrome, she suffers from hyperthermia and hypothermia. She has a cooling vest that we can heat or cool during extreme hot and cold temperatures. Learning disabilities have been a huge part of Jordan's problem's. Her diagnosis includes progressive regression and cognitive memory loss. We are having to learn the alphabet for the 4th time. She receives PT, OT and Speech through the school district and has recently had evaluation to receive extended services outside of school due to regression over the last 2 years. Jordan has had a really rough couple of years. Mostly due in part to hormone levels due to early puberty onset (not sure if brought on by seizures or syndrome?). But when that started 2 summers ago, the seizures worsened at a frighteningly rapid rate, more meds were administered, as well as hormone shots and eventually a hormone implant. And most recently, she has developed Atexia, a physical disabitilty! Needless to say; Jordan has been incredibly strong throughout the duration of this trial in life. She is a joy to life and to everyone who can appreciate life, and if you do not then meet her, you will. I am proud of Jordan and her Parents, and have nothing but admiration for the love and efforts her family and friends have provided. I consider each and everyone of you my family. If you take the time to visit this site, then I know you have a heart. Those who don't...now is your chance to take the time to appreciate what a heart can deliver. "PEASE" sign up today for Jordan's E-mail Newsletters and Updates. Jordan will look forward to hearing from you. Just click here to Contact Jordan and she will be more than happy to send you regular updates. Don't forget to view her wonderful family photos and pictures from Jordan's Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World! Also, see how you can help Jordan and other charitable organizations associated with Dravet Syndrome and learn more about Jordan's disability and about her specific needs, hopes and goals by clicking here. I would like to thank all of you for taking the time to recognize the efforts of what Jordan needs right now. Personally I have set a goal to raise $11,000 that will go toward buying Jordan a Seizure Service Dog. I am doing this by selling my art, and by obtaining sponsorship from a few other caring entities who support my artistic eye. On January 30th we will have a benefit at Ruta Maya with family, friends, and kewl music. I plan to share 20-25 pieces of my art for a silent auction that will include a handful of my favorite musicians. Leeann Atherton, Shelley King, LZ Love, Bob Schnieder, Gary Clark, Clifford Antone, and many many others. The exciting part is that I have a sponsor that is willing to give me a dollar for every dollar earned from the art that I sell. Bonus...need I say more ( : If you want some classy Austinite art for your music room, now is your chance to get it. Not to mention, my art rocks...and you will smile every time you walk into your room and look at it. ( : If any would like to contribute to the Silent Auction please contact me at 512-785-7874. Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you. Peace and Love, Wesley |


| April. 4, 2010 Hey there strangers…I say this because I have been in a cognitive state for awhile now. My apologies for this, as I have other obstacles in life that have caused a diversion of what it is that brings me that piece of mind. Art, interaction with those who I cherish, and overall…getting out an capturing the smiles that helps to make me flow! New trials with this New Year have remained to be a do it yourself obstacle course. My dearest friend sent me this quote last week, and I feel compelled to share it with you. “You are as Happy as you decide to be!” These words over the past week have helped me to realize something. “Choice”…It’s a simple thing! “We all have it!” What separates the folks from the mice, is the example set by those blessed individuals who have chosen to acknowledge this. Hey man! If I can see it, then I know you can as well. Really!!!! Turn your blue sky to something you’re not afraid to welcome. Happiness is the cheapest asset that we all have if your able to believe in it and most of all yourself. Simple isn’t it! ( : I know…easier said than done. Nevertheless; it’s only as hard as you make in your mind to be. Can I be happy or do I chose to be a pain in my own ass… I wish all of you nothing but the best for what the New Year has delivered thus far, and even “more” what it has in store for each and every one us who are in tune with the souls of others as much as our own. There’s no street signs to give us directions! We have to find our way…..the one to make us feel that we can make it on our own. With this final thought Im going to say goodday! Enjoy todays Art (My Eye!) and feel free to send me any ideas you may have to help this site deliver something each and everyone us is deserving of . Unconditional Happiness… Wesley |

| Art by Wesley Balli We see ourselves...Looking deeper within! Much farther than any other ever could! What can you do...be that man, our just lose yourself? Lose yourself to the blues...chose to run in your mind to the moon! Follow what that heart hides, call yourself...Say within yourself the way you know you feel! Look into your eye...find your whites...find the sparkle that makes you no mans fool! |
| Feb. 4, 2010 Hey there strangers…I say this because I have been in a cognitive state for awhile now. My apologies for this, as I have other obstacles in life that have caused a diversion of what it is that brings me that piece of mind. Art, interaction with those who I cherish, and overall…getting out an capturing the smiles that helps to make me flow! New trials with this New Year have remained to be a do it yourself obstacle course. My dearest friend sent me this quote last week, and I feel compelled to share it with you. “You are as Happy as you decide to be!” These words over the past week have helped me to realize something. “Choice”…It’s a simple thing! “We all have it!” What separates the folks from the mice, is the example set by those blessed individuals who have chosen to acknowledge this. Hey man! If I can see it, then I know you can as well. Really!!!! Turn your blue sky to something you’re not afraid to welcome. Happiness is the cheapest asset that we all have if your able to believe in it and most of all yourself. Simple isn’t it! ( : I know…easier said than done. Nevertheless; it’s only as hard as you make in your mind to be. Can I be happy or do I chose to be a pain in my own ass… I wish all of you nothing but the best for what the New Year has delivered thus far, and even “more” what it has in store for each and every one us who are in tune with the souls of others as much as our own. There’s no street signs to give us directions! We have to find our way…..the one to make us feel that we can make it on our own. With this final thought Im going to say goodday! Enjoy todays Art (My Eye!) and feel free to send me any ideas you may have to help this site deliver something each and everyone us is deserving of . Unconditional Happiness… Wesley |

| March 5, 2010 Austin Tx...Born and Raised here, and proud to be a part of what I know is one of the best cities in Tx. I'm what you call a "Bubba" according to the history that I have learned from a few Austinite Old Timer buddies of mine, not sure exactly when, but before I was born (42 years ago), everyone who lived south of Town Lake (Lady Bird Lake) was labeled "Bubba Land". The sky line you see is on the North side of the Lake, so the picture here was taken by a "Bubba" who still lives on the "Bubba Land" side of town Town (Lady Bird Lake)better known as, South Austin. Peace and Love, Wesley |
| March 8, 2010 I spent this past Sunday with a select group of individuals whom I openly welcome, without hesitation, into my heart, and more so my spirit. To see these folks pull themselves together is admirable. Especially when it comes to our ability to recognize our own weaknesses by sincerely understanding the trials of our neighbor. These folks (Class 13) are special, you can see it in their eyes. Peace and Love, Wesley |
| Discovery (Austin Tx): Folks fortunate to find them self, wit them themselves! CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON!!! |
| Feb. 20 2010 Momo's fun with Gary Clark, Papa Mali and some kewl "A" friends!!! Respectfully, Wesley CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON!!! |
| Title: Life CLICK THE PLAY Below BUTTON!!! |


| Aug.7, 2010 Well, it’s been 38 days since I broke my firkin’ neck and 37 since the surgery. How do I feel inside? I have feelings of desolation and just glad to be back home! I missed my dog Smokey, I missed the clean atmosphere of my home (neat freak), and I missed my own bed. My will is strong though because I dream of walking all day every day. Right now I still can’t even get from the bed into the wheel chair on my own. Jesus almighty when? It makes me so mad to feel so helpless and to many weeks already have hurried by. I also feel bad for my inability to express my appreciation for all the warm wishes received from friends and family. These I yearn for because they truly are inspiring and have become a tool that helps me push myself hard even when the pain is overdue! I love you folks so much my heart beats faster when I have thoughts of spending time with you again. Going to parties, the river, a restaurant to eat just weighs so heavily in my thoughts I feel like I’m going so crazy it’s outlandish. You will be happy as me to know I have walked for 15 minutes yesterday and today while strapped in a harness over the ambulator (fancy treadmill). Yesterday I supported 80% of my weight and it’s Way kewl eh! Now if I could just feel it? The nerve damage has the pain level about the same and the loss of feeling keeps me sloppy. This is dangerous because if I ever fall and hit my neck again I will be completely paralyzed. Well, guess I’ll wrap this up and share it with you before therapy comes and gets me again. Next session is group therapy. We play kick ball and shake n bake the arms…. I’m glad I took the time to write and share this with you because it has me feeling much better. Peace and Love, Wesley |
| December 22, 2010 Hello Friends, Wow man…hard to believe it’s been close to 6 months since I have made the time to sit here and update my favorite website in the world. I guess I've been playing with that Facebook way to much. Ha! So much has happened and there is so much to share that I will try to keep it as short and sweet as possible. That and I want to look through some of this year’s best Art & photo’s to create a movie for our enjoyment. As for myself, I’m doing much better than I ever expected (Compared to my last update!). I can now walk and get around on my own! Just 4 months ago a doctor told me I may never work or walk again. This was such a mental blow that I refused to accept it. With the help of prayer, therapy and determination I have surpassed the expectations of both myself and the doctors. I am still handicapped in my arms, hands, and feet but if you saw me on the street you would never know. Aside from the cane I use that is. Don’t ask me to play a guitar either. Every time I try, I get mad and just want to crash the damn thing against the closest solid object I see. Ha! I spend a great deal of my time now working on my escapes. The escape I speak of is Art. Something about that Art Zone just carries me away to that untouchable place. Right now I can feel my hands beginning to act out due to this typing so I am going to close with a poem I wrote this morning. I have to save some hand energy for the movie I want to create and share with you today. God if you only knew how much fun and peace this brings. I can only wish that it delivers the same to you. Have a Safe and Happy Holiday my Friends. Secret Place I found a place so free, so far away...a place only I can see. Run, Cry, Laugh, Rest... I spread to the ground like seeds. This place I've found is all that matters I’m free... Untouchable I have become, without any worry in the world. Time to smile, now only I am left to judge this trial. What I need, is all that’s left...this is how it shall be. The sky is a place that takes me away. I can see everything just disappear...O’ takes my breath I say. Look back just in time… see you smile, even through the miles. Time to rest, to hide my face… I’ve found my happy secret space. --Wesley Balli Peace and Love, Me |