Saturday July 24

Monday July 19

  Good wet monday morning everyone.  We are getting some much needed rain but looks like it will be out by noon and 30% for the next few days.

  We had another great weekend at the gap as the skyway continues to mount fatalities.  The skyway has had 3 in the past 7 days.  Two on  the NC side and One on the TN side, all speed related.  I know the gap gets a bad rap from time to time but we are going on the 5th straight year the the skyway is much deadlier than the gap.  So when up there please be carful and watch your speed the curves can sneak up on you and next thing you know you will be in on coming traffic.  

  No major groups in again this week but that will change with the miata club hitting the gap the following week.

  Good news well more like great news for Tapoca Lodge as they have been bought and looks like getting a full make over.  Have not had a chance to speak with the new owners but rumor mill is they will be reopening for the 2011 season.  It is a wonderful and historic facility and we wish them all the luck we hope to be able to work with them in the coming seasons.

  Hope everyone has a great day.  

Brad 

Friday July 16

  Great news folks, this week my nephew Steven has received a 100% clear bill of health after a long medical battle stemming from a brain tumor.  You do not know strength like that of this young man, many years of testing and surgeries with not so much as a single complaint.  We could all learn a lot from this young man.  He was the main inspiration on why we got involved with the Pediatric Brain Tumor foundation a few years ago.  This year at the Indy MOTO GP foundation even we donated a custom painted 600 CBR.  Steven has a drawing on that bike.  We are very happy for not only Steven but David and Sharon that they are free of that worry.

  Looks like rain chances late tonight and early tomorrow but clearing out Sat afternoon and sunny on sunday.  Temps still in the 90's.

  Been great seeing all of our local riders back in the gap now the slide is open.  

  We have started to see a small increase in accidents, most minor but folks please keep in your lane, the consequences of crossing the double yellow will be painful.  Worked one accident this week with a gentleman who broke his hip after striking a car.  So now everyone is back in the gap please be carful it is busy and we love to see everyone back at the store with a smile not being towed out on a roll back or even worse.  

  Ok hope everyone has a great weekend.

Brad 

Tuesday July 13

  Good morning folks

  Yes we have been very busy the past few days as the road reopened last friday.  It has been really good seeing all the local riders again as we have missed them the first 1/2 of the season.

  Had a great time this weekend doing a ride along with Blount County Sheriff department on sunday.  Let me tell you folks, I know most of you only have minor contact with the Blount County Sheriff office, but having a chance to go out with them gives you a up close experience with what a professional organization they are.  I rode with Deputy Steve Donald and let me tell you folks he is a true positive force for this community.  He goes well beyond the normal scope of law enforcement and works very hard with his community even with helping fix neighborhood disputes.  He is a credit not only to the professionalism of the department but has a true desire to helping Blount county.  I look forward to the next ride along.

  We got some much needed rain the past two days but we will now see the skies turning blue and we will have another great weekend.  Looks like temps back into the low 90's or upper 80's.

  Hope everyone has a great week.

Brad 

Friday July 9

  Gooooddddd Morning everyone

  Today we get the Dragon reopened all the way for the first time since March 15th.  At some point today TDOT will have completed the clean up of the rock slide and will reopen both lanes.  Thanks to the contracting company, TDOT and all the public officials who have worked very hard to lessen the economic impact of the rock slide for both states.

  Weather today looks like we will be cloudy most of the day with rain in the late evening as well as early Sat am.  The rest of Sat and Sun look great as another high pressure system moves into the area.

  Hope everyone had a great 4th of July weekend, I got to spend my weekend riding and hanging out with my Brother David.  David is on his way back to the middle east for the second time in two years so I was glad to be able to spend that time with him cruising Western NC and East TN.

  Ok folks hope to see everyone this weekend.

Brad 

Thursday July 8

Only one update for today US129 will be open by this weekend.

  TY TDOT and all the folks that helped with the rockslide.

Brad 

Saturday July 3

Good afternoon folks,

Not much to report, weather is great as Brad covered yesterday, traffic is light, faces are smiling, it's a good day @ Deals Gap!

Don't forget tonight is 50 racing in the parking lot, practice starts when the lot starts to clear and races begin around 9pm.  Come on out and enjoy the show!

MG

Friday July 2

  Good morning everyone

  Great weather today started out at 61 looking for a high around 82...perfect.  All weekend we will see this weather.

  No word yet on the road other than they are now eating into there bonus funds so hope they are moving to finish fast.

  Foothills parkway is getting new pavement as we speak so look for excellent road conditions there soon.  Do watch for the flag men as they continue to work there. 

  Was good to see our friend JT at breakfast this morning, always a treat to be able to spend some time with JT.  He always has great stories on his days as a factory Porsche race car driver.  If you ever get a chance to talk with him you will have a great time for sure.

  Ok folks not much going on today, remember 50 racing in the parking lot after 8pm sat night.

Have a safe day.

Brad 

Thursday July 1

Thursday July 1

  Good Morning everyone

  Today is the day we are drawing the winning ticket for the MOTO GP prize package for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.  There was a little date conflict where the tickets say the drawing is 1 July and the web site said 5 July.  We are going with the ticket date as we have already had a few calls on it.  We will announce the winning ticket today.  I want to thank everyone who bought the raffle tickets this year, with a nephew who has had a tumor removed from his brain this organization hits close to home.  Every penny we made on the raffle will be give to the foundation so they can continue to save the lives of our children.

  Eventful trip through Cades Cove and Parsons Branch this morning as the wildlife was out in full force.  Saw 3 bears and a lot of deer, so if looking at the animals is your thing hit Cades Cove around 6-7 am and you will see a lot.  Do not expect a fast lap as a lot of folks are in the cove at that time.

  ROAD UPDATES:  US 129 and the Skyway have grass on the roads from the mowers.  Most of it was gone by yesterday afternoon but still a few spots.  Foothills parkway is being repaved so look for delays and flaggers there for a while.

  Ok folks have a great day.

Brad 

Wednesday June 30

  Welcome to hump day everyone.

  Looks like the 4th of July weekend is going to be some of the best weather this summer.  We had a cold front move into the area so our mid to upper 90's will be replaced with mid to upper 80's  into the weekend.  The chance of rain will hold to 20% in the late evenings but that is typical for everyday this time of the year.

  WARNING: US 129 south of the store is getting the grass cut today and tomorrow and there is a lot of grass in the road.

                   NC143 aka the Skyway is having a sink hole filled today so look for one lane to be closed on the NC side right around the 15 mile marker or close to the NC entrance.

  Looking forward to the weekend we are having 50 races in the parking lot Sat night.  Also I get to spend two days riding with my brother David so that is always a great adventure.  Please take the time not only to thank a vet for our freedom that we celebrate this weekend but thank each other for it takes all of us to keep it this way.  Whether it is with military service, civil service, when we vote, when we express our pleasures and displeasures to the powers who run the country we all have a important roll.  So from myself I want to thank all of our customers and fellow Americans for all that you do everyday that reinforces our countries freedoms.  No in American tradition go out and have a great weekend, try not to blow off your fingers and go ride your motorcycles.

  Have a great week everyone.

Brad 

Monday June 28

  Good Morning everyone.

  We got another slow and uneventful weekend under our belt and are now steaming ahead to 4th of July weekend.  Looks like the best chance of rain is today and it is 40% for late afternoon showers then right back into sun and heat.

  We will now start tracking the clean up on a more frequent bases as we head into the time period that the contractors can still get there bonus.  Looks like the additional slide a few weeks ago will cause them to miss the 4th of July weekend however they still have a 2-3 week ahead of schedule prediction.  This places the reopen date for mid July.  Folks this is not the party line from TDOT, they will continue to stick with the 31 July date incase additional work needs to be done.  TDOT has been very good about passing information our way so this is as good as it gets for a firm date right now.  I expect more detailed information in  the next 2 weeks as we close in on the target dates.

  Over the 4th of July weekend we will be hosting 50cc races on Sat night, if you have never seen this event you should stop by it is great to watch.  If you would like to bring up your 50 and race with the locals and some of our out of town regulars contact MG@dealsgap.com for more info.

  Will take a moment to wish my daughter a happy 2nd birthday, we celebrated it on Sun.  I hope we can survive another 16 years lol.

  Ok folks hope everyone has a great week.

Brad 

Saturday June 26

  Good and once again hot morning.  Starting to sound like a broken record here.  Temp to reach 96 today and all sun.  Looks like this trend will continue into next week.

  No updates on the rock slide but I do expect more information to start rolling as we close in on 1 July.  But just to clarify as  we still get questions on this.  Yes the Dragon is open from 8am - 8pm every day.  However you can still NOT get past the rockslide road block at mile marker 11.  You CAN NOT get to Maryville or Knoxville from US129.  You can still ride the dragon but you have to enter from NC and turn around and come back.

  Only group in town this weekend is the XL Forum so we should have a nice weekend at the gap with light traffic.  If you have ever wanted to rid The Dragon folks now is the time to do it, in a few short weeks when the road reopens to all traffic we expect to see a increase in motorcycle and sport car traffic.  Even though we hate to see the damage being done to the local economy in TN and NC we have enjoyed the fewer 911 calls for sure.

  Ok, big shout out to George and Barb..aka the in-laws, they are visiting from PA this week and the kids have enjoyed them being here.  Hope they can survive the beatings Connor and Hailey are dishing out with their excitement lol.

  Ok off to go ride, hope everyone has a great weekend and try to stay cool.

Brad 

Tuesday June 22

  Good morning everyone

  Exciting afternoon yesterday as we had a double airlift yesterday from a bike on bike accident.  Looked like both riders were gong to be ok.  Please folks lets be carful and do not cross the double line, this kid was not going all that fast just looked like he target fixated and  drove straight thru the curb.

  Onto better news, as of Feb 23 2011 No trucks over 30 feet will be allowed on US 129  starting at the Swain county line which is located near the Tapoco Lodge.  Signs will be posted along US 129 starting in Robinsville.  Hopefully this will start a sharp decline in the commercial traffic in our area.

  Weather is going to continue to be hot hot hot and then more hot weather.  Looks like mid to upper 90's will be hanging out in the area for the next week. 

  Big thanks to the Graham County EMT's and Paramedics for all the work yesterday in the Gap.  They do such a fantastic job and really care for the folks they are working on.  Thanks Gang

  Ok now for the moron of the day story:  In the middle of the accident yesterday and the medics were trying to load up to critically injured  riders, some moron, and I can think of a lot more ways to describe this guy but I would get anger emails, actually tried to ask the Paramedic for directions around the rock slide and wanted to argue with him that the signs the state put up were confusing and should be changed.  Serious..... I have no idea how the paramedic kept from popping this guy.  I mean to walk down the road as he was 20 cars back or so, walk right into a active accident scene and go straight to the medic trying to keep someone alive and pull that stunt.  Wow just wow.

  OK all I got today gang, hope everyone has a fantastic Tuesday.

Brad 

Monday June 21

  Good Monday everyone, hope you had a great weekend.

  Happy belated fathers day to all the Dad's out there, I had a wonderful day with my gang.  Got great gifts from the wife and kids, my folks visited for the weekend and had a wonderful BBQ on sunday. 

  Rockslide still has the road blocked off and TDOT is still sticking with the 31 July date with hopes it will be sooner.  What sooner means is a greay area so we will just wait on the word from TDOT that the road is open all the way.

  Things are still very quiet on the weekends so if you are wondering what is the better day to ride it is Fri and Sat for sure.  THP does not increase patrols on the weekend and we are seeing more traffic on the weekdays right now.

  Check out the facebook page for 4th of July 50 racing activities  at the resort.  Mg@dealsgap.com is a good email for 50 racing questions.

  Have a great day everyone.

Brad 

Friday June 18

  Good warm Morning everyone.  Looks like we will be well into the 90's today with a heat index of close to 100.  10% chance of afternoon thunderstorms but that will be the forecast until Sep.

  WARNING WARNING WARNING

  TN was cutting grass on the Cherohala Skyway  and there is grass all over the road in both lanes.  With the high humidity it will be very slippery this morning.

  Watched NCHP pull over yet another truck trying to get into the Gap yesterday, that makes three this week.  Does no one read the 4 road closed signs on 129 or do they not believe them????  Well this guy was lucky to be caught before getting into the Gap, THP has been holding trucks at the end of the gap until 8pm when the road closes.

  This week continues the Knoxville bike event, we are not seeing any increase in traffic so far so we expect normal weekend numbers at The Dragon. 

  Work on the rockslide is progressing well ahead of schedule so we hope to see the road 100% open sometime in July. This of course is based on no more issues at the slide and we contiue to see this great weather.

  NC28 is starting to rack up the accidents again this year, no fatalities that we no of but numerous ambulances.  Please be carful gang, 28 is a great road and you can pick up speed but it is as unforgiving as the Dragon and last year was 10 times worse than US 129 on both  the fatalities and major accidents.

  Ok folks hope everyone has a great friday.

Brad 

Thursday June 17

  Good Morning everyone.  The next seven days are shaping up to be hot and dry.  Yesterday was our best chance for a afternoon shower but now we are settled in for dry weather and temps toping 90.

  Yesterdays excitement came in t he form of a car on fire in the parking lot.  Thanks for all my fire extinguisher operators who put the fire out before significant damage was done to the parking lot.  Once again Charity gets all the fun lol.

  Had a great ride on parsons branch this morning, all the dry weather has helped keep that road in great shape.  Folks if you come over parsons branch just remember the US 129 is still closed until 8am so time you ride so you make it into the gap after that time.

   Quick reminder if you are in the Knoxville area this week the Knoxville bike fest is going on next to the zoo.

  Rumor has it Tapoco Lodge has been sold and we may se the most historic site in our area once again reopen.  As this is still rumor we do not have details but we do hope this is all true, it is a neat place and would love to have it back open.

   Another reminder that we will be drawing for the raffle on 1 July for the MOTO GP trip, all the proceeds go to the Pediatric Brain Tumor foundation so please if you have not got your tickets check out the link at the top of the page for all the details.

  Ok gang off to do a few passes this morning in the Gap, hope everyone has a great day. 

Brad 

Tuesday June 15

  Good Morning Everyone

  Yes been awhile, we have been in up state NY doing a Americade aka the big rain out.  Amazing  the difference weather can make, last year was a great event with sun everyday, this year we had rain all but one day and the numbers were way off.  We defiantly got the hard core riders out this year.   We did manage a few good nights at a local Bar/Restaurant The Adirondack Pub and Brewery.  If you are ever in Lake George NY it is the best place to go eat and have fun.  Thanks to Ashley and the entire gang we had a wonderful time.

  With the Rock Slide still hampering traffic from the TN side we have had a very quiet year, most of the group events have been smaller.  On the plus side we have had no major accidents this season so there is always a silver lining and we have enjoyed not going up the hill to assist riders who are down.

  Talked with TDOT at length yesterday on how the clean up is going.  There has been an additional slide that will require more explosive work but they do not feel this will set back the clean up more than a day or two.  As of yesterday all the equipment was arriving to deal with it.  They are still able to work on the other sections of the slide so they continue to move forward.  TDOT feels they are still ahead of schedule. 

  Ok  First time in the known history of the Resort we have had a couple of bikes stolen.  Apparently over the weekend, after 2am on fri night/ sat am two bikes were lifted out, one had a disk lock, both had the forks locked and all the keys were in the rooms.  

  One bike, a 2008 CBR 1000, red,  VIN is JH2SC59078M001643, VA tag "HEAT2" Any information you have on this bike please contact the local law enforcement agency and then give us a call so we can contact the owner.

  The second bike is a 2010 Yamaha R1, NC plates on it as soon as we have more info on that bike we will put it out.

  This weekend the major event is the Knoxville bike rally sponsored by Knoxville Harley Davidson.  http://www.knoxvillebikerally.com/  Same place the Honda Hoot used to be held at near the Knox Zoo.  Not sure what if any impact we will se at the gap with 129 Closed near the foothills.

  Ok Gang that was the last event we are going too untill Oct so the updates will come more often.

Brad 

Tuesday June 1

  Good morning everyone

  Weather all week is scattered showers, typical for this time of year.  You can go all day without rain while others will see it all day.  Temps will be mid 80's for the rest of the month. 

  Big shout out to the NYPD riders who brought us the patch for the new Law enforcement/ Medical service/Fire fighter/ Military patch display.  For anyone who wants to contribute just send in a patch with a return address and we will return by sending you a sticker or patch of our own.

  Everyone please check out the raffle on the top of the page, drawing is 1st of July so down to one month left.

  MG and I are just about packed, heading out of SAT to Americade, so if you are going we will have patches and pins for anyone stopping by the booth with some sort or resort gear on, patch, shirt pin or hat ect.

  Hope everyone has a great day.

Brad 

Monday May 31

  Good Morning everyone and more important Good Memorial Day.

  Today I would like to thank all the men and women who have served or is serving in today's armed forces.  Thank you for our freedom, thank you for your sacrifices past and present and thank you for placing us first.

  I hope everyone takes some time today to reflect the cost of our freedom and of the men and women who have payed the price for us.  These folks are the true heros of our time, not some overpaid sport figure or a actor who gets paid to pretend.  These folks risk there lives every single day so we do not have too.  So if you see one of our proud soldiers today....and everyday for that fact....take the time to say thanks for that is the least we owe then.

  For those who spend most of your time complaining about unjust wars or how bad americans are or how hard we have it hear....please for God's sake move, you do nothing more than dishonor the generations of Soldiers who have fought, bled and died so we can be free.  So we do not have to show papers everytime we go to a different state, so our citizens are not drug from their homes in the middle of the night, so our children are not shot by snipers hiding in bombed out buildings, so you are not awaken by mortars and rockets landing in your yard, so you do not have to watch your family starve to death because the local war lord has taken all the food.  Look around, your life here may not be perfect, nor will it ever be, but you have the freedom and safety most counties will never know.

  Sorry for the rant gang but sometimes what I read from ignorant people complaining about americans and america gets under my skin, we as a country have paid a great deal for the freedoms we have.  You will find almost no family in this country that is not affected by the wars and conflicts over the past 60 years.

  Again, to All the Soldiers, their families and loved ones.....THANK YOU

"Airborne"

Brad 

Saturday May 29

  Good morning everyone

  Hope you survived the nasty weather yesterday.  I hit two hail storms in Sylva and Franklin.  Heavy rain in TN as well.  

  Watch the skyway today a lot of gravel in the road from  the ditches over flowing.  Look for the gravel to be there for the next week or so.  Also noticed a lot of gravel at the entrances of the pull offs so be carfule pulling in, have seen a few nasty spills already with folks pulling off to fast and hitting the patches.

  Today we see only a 30% chance of thunderstorms in the PM so looks like the rest of the weekend will be good to go on the weather.

  Thanks to the Two stroke gang for yet another great rally this year.

  Road construction continues to progress on US129 they are still ahead of schedule and they are still unwilling to give us a updated time line. 

  Remember folks what this weekend represents please, the men and women of the armed forces honor you every single day they serve please do all you can to return that honor to them this weekend.

  Just a little over one month until we draw the raffle ticket for the MOTO GP race weekend package so check  the link at the top of the page and buy your tickets.  100% of all the money collected will go to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

  Ok Folks have a great weekend.

"All The Way"

Brad 

Friday May 28

  Good Morning everyone

  Welcome to the Memorial Day weekend everyone. Today I am going off topic of the Gap that is and want to Thank all past and present Soldiers.

  This weekend we remember all the folks who have kept our way of life and freedom secure for over 200 years.  I know that the current wars we are ignored in are not popular...and frankly folks no war should ever be.... but regardless of how you feel please take this weekend to thank the men and women who risk their lives for us.  They get up hours before most of us everyday to prepare themselves for whatever needs to be done and are normally still hard at it long after we are at home cooking on the grill.  More often than not it will involve a task that will endanger their life.  They do this for very little money, no glory and barley a thanks from most of us.  This weekend you have a chance to do just  that, thank them.  If you no a solider past or present or even a family of a deployed soldier please take a few hours of your weekend to go say thanks, take hem out to lunch or dinner, go lay a flag on their grave site.  Do something please the men and women of our armed forces deserve much more than that but if you do it they would look at it as if you handed them a block of gold.

  So to all the men and women who have been there every day to protect me and my family, to those who have sacrificed your lives, to those who leave their families at home as they deploy for years to protect our country....THANK YOU.

  Hope everyone has a wonderful Weekend and remember you get to spend it in freedom because of the men and women of our Armed Forces.

"AIRBORNE"

Brad 

Tuesday May 25

  Good Morning Gang

  Big news of the week is it is hot.  We are now into the 7th straight 80 plus day and looks like we will be here for the rest of the summer.  Weekend outlook is hot and sunny so should be perfect riding weather for the area.

  Rockslide is still there but some customers who are watching the slide cam everyday say they are seeing cranes moving out and heavy equipment moving in.  Could be a great signal we are off the rock face stabilization and onto the clean up phase.  They crews have been on the rock seven days a week so they are working their butt's off.  

  Updates on The Dragon has been very good, we have seen a significant drop in accidents with almost zero requiring medical attention.  Thanks everyone for  the safe riding and helping us to continue to justify to TN they did the right thing (and they did) keeping the Dragon available for the season while we deal with the slide.

  For group information please check the calendar we have put up, it will give you a great idea of who will be visiting the area in large numbers.  We have got a lot of positive feedback on the new calendar so far.  Thanks, please keep the emails coming, only way we get better is if you send us your suggestions.  

  Ok, show time coming up again.  Me and MG will be at Americade 7-11 June in Lake George.  We are right in the middle of the park so come find us and if wearing a Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort item of any sort we will have a free giveaway for you in thanks for your continued support.

  REMINDER:  Gang we are coming up on just over one month before we draw the winning raffle ticket for MOTO GP race in INDY.  All the proceeds go to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and you will have a chance to win the custom made CBR600.  You do not have to be present and you can buy on line so check out the link at the top of the page.

  Everyone have a great week.

Brad 

Friday May 21

  Good rainy Fri Morning everyone.  Looks like the rain is in for most of the morning and will start clearing out sometime this afternoon.  The rest of the weekend looks great with a slight chance tomarrow and a great day sunday.

  Several car groups in the area this weekend as well as the Canadian group...aka Shayna's kids.  Good to see everyone back for another great Canadian invasion.  

  Thanks for all the emails with group dates to put up on  the calendar, this will help everyone know better when the real busy weekends will be. 

  Ok gang, to set yet another rumor straight.....THP IS NOT targeting folks on the Dragon, please stop coming into the store and saying you were targeted because you got a ticket for 35 or 40 over the speed limit.  Not sure of any police officer who will not stop you for that kind of speed.  THP has been doing a great job so far and have hear of no tickets that are less than 10 over.  Please Gang they only wish to help us keep the Dragon open while the slide is being cleaned up and this is a necessary evil.   

  Folks have a great weekend, everyone do the sun dance today lol.

Brad 

Thursday May 20

  Good morning everyone

  Looks like most of the bad weather this weekend will skirt north of us.  Majority of our chance of rain will be late fri but is moving fast and we only have a 30% chance Sat morning.

  As most of you read on the face book page the Deals Gap family lost a dear friend this week in a single bike accident.  Phil will be missed everyday, he has been a constant presence on our front bench for our entire 6 years as owners here.  Phil was always  a great source for pleasant conversation and always had a smiley for you.  Phil will be missed of that there is no doubt.  We at Deals Gap wish his family our condolences in this of most difficult times.  Rest in Peace Phil.

  Ok folks hope everyone has a great weekend.

Brad 

Tuesday May 18

  Good cloudy Tuesday

   Hope everyone stayed dry this past weekend, we got lucky and most of the rain held off too sunday afternoon and monday.  This week looks like the standard spring weather, fog in the morning, nice warm days with possible showers in the afternoons.  Highs are finally sticking in  the mid to upper 70's with a few days topping the 80 mark.

  The skyway took a beating on monday so watch for the gravel in the curves.  Around the state line area had a lot of ditches blow out so look for mud and gravel in that area in particular.   The Dragon is in good condition however, parsons brancsh washed out again so that is closed until next week.

   Ok now for the weekly rock slide update:  Talked with Steve Burden who is in charge of the clean up for TDOT yesterday.  They are in great shape on the clean up, no surprises and the plan seems solid.  They are a head of schedule but will stick with the 31 July  re-open date for a little while longer just to make sure.  TDOT and the clean up crew and working hard and fast on this slide.  Thanks to both groups for your efforts in getting our area back to normal.

  Please everyone take a look at the map at the top of the page to help navigate around the slide, you CAN NOT use foothills parkway to get to the gap.  The slide is between the parkway and the Dragon.  

  Our summer show schedule is starting to solidify and you can find us next at Americade June 7-12 Both number 31-32 right in the center of the park.  Remember to wear your Dragon shirt, hat pin or patch and come by the both for some free stuff.

  Ok folks hope everyone has a great day.

Brad 

Saturday May 15

  Gooodddd Morning everyone

  It is so good to be back, on tuesday I had to go in for minor surgery and had to tak a few days off.  

  Want to start out today with a big thanks to MG, Charity, Michelle and Jessica for all the great work they do for me.  I would not have been able to do the surgery with out great capable staff like the folks who work here.  After being gone for a week it is good to only have one message on my desk and no problems in the in-box....Thanks Gang you did a great job.

 Looks ike this week was busy, the weather has been great with all the rain heading north.  Skyway was already 67 this morning and it is shaping up to be another hot day.

  Happy belated B-day to Tank, sorry I missed it this year.  

  Also Happy Birthday to Beth as she turns ...... Ya not that stupid to give out her age lol....

  This weekend we have the first Motorcycle rally in Ashville since Honda Hoot left and looks like the weather will hold out for them.  If in the area go check them out they will have lots of vendors as well as entertainment.  The link for the rally is at the bottom of our page.

  Ok well off to mow grass with Connor lol.

  Everyone have a fantastic weekend.

Brad 

Sunday May 9

 Good morning everyone

  HAPPY MOTHERS day to all the mom's out there.  We appreciate all the love and hard work you do for us each and every day no matter how old your babies get.  On this day we remind ourselves how hard you job is, raising us, your hell raising motorcycle riding kids :)  Hope everyone gets a chance o rode home today and let your mom know how much you love her.

  On another mothers day note I have to thank my wife Beth....sorry mom lol...she is the number 1 super mom in the universe.  Not only raising our two strong willed kids, managing the house, dealing with me (her third kid lol), she still finds time to help at the resort.  Love  you Beth and thanks for all you do for our family.

  Ok if you missed riding at the gap yesterday it was a perfect day indeed, lots of sun and temps at 74 all day.  You till have 2 more days before we see a little rain on tuesday and the return of 80 degree weather.

  Well folks time to get the kids up and dressed as it is daddy in charge day lol, ok if I remember right taking connor to the strip club is not the appropriate activity for a kid....ugggg how does she do it all day lol. 

  Have a great day folks and enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Brad 

Saturday May 8

  Good cooler morning everyone

  Yesterdays scorcher of above 90 temps has been replaced with the high of 70 today.  Makes for much better riding for sure.  Wind/rain/hail storm passed this way early this morning but looking at blue skys now.

  This weekend brought Shawn and Cliff from FL....the rest of you wimped out...old friends from FL.  We even got a surprise visit from Tank.

  Still no new news from the slide area from TDOT other than the same old story.  I think at this point they will not say a word other than  the published story line, but I know as soon as they get a more definite change of dates they will let us know. 

  But as a reminder, The Dragon is open from 8 am until 8pm every day but you can only enter from the NC side and have to turn around at the end and come back into NC.

  Hope every one has a good weekend.

Brad 

Thursday May 6

Good or should I say Great afternoon everyone

  85 and all sun here the past few days with one more day of over 80 on Friday.  Sat cools back to the upper 70's but sun is still out so will be a picture perfect weekend.

  Still, as we continue to watch the news on West TN and other flood  areas, our thoughts are with the victims of this terrible disaster.  More rescue workers from the Knoxville and Maryville area headed out today to continue the search and rescue operations that are ongoing in those areas.  

  We were also glad to hear Trooper Thatch from the NCHP was ok after a nasty accident on 19/74 this morning.  Trooper Thatch's cruiser or more like super pimp charger, was hit by another vehicle this morning driving him into mailboxes. Car looks to be a total loss but Trooper Thatch was ok so that is all that mattered.

Took the New Cades Cove road this morning and wow what a difference that made.  Still not alot of passing points and most of the pull overs remain gravel but the ride around the park is so much better.

  Sweettttt Great News just met the new director of marketing for Wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley, Maje Baker.  The museum will in fact be staying in the area as well as being open 5 days a week now.  That is great news for everyone in the area, if you have never gone there and met Dale the owner than you have missed a great experience for sure. 

  Ok Gang I am out, everyone have a great day.

Brad 

Monday May 3

  Good Morning everyone, hope you survived the storms this weekend.  

  Today we will not be talking about the gap but instead would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to all the folks affected but the horrific storms over the past few days.  West and Central TN took another pounding last night with a Dam breaking near Nashville.  If traveling that area like I was last night please please please be carful, I saw 4 accidents in the course of 45 min near Chattanooga because of the heavy rain and water on the road.  All the accidents had at least one ambulance.  We will continue to see this rain all day so if you can avoid traveling I suggest you do, if not again please be carful and watch out for the folks driving like there is no rain and no standing water on the roads.  A lot of fatalities with this storm system we do not want to hear about any more.

  Beth is on the Skyway this morning and reported a lot of gravel in the road so if going that way most of the ditches overflowed and left a lot of crap in the road.  

  Again, for all the folks dealing with the severe damages from this storm we are thinking of you today.  Again reminds us that our little slide issue is nothing compared to what many folks are dealing with today, loss of homes, cars, and even worse the loss of life.

  Thanks Gang, have a good day

Brad 

Friday April 30

  Good morning from Panama City Beach florida and the Thunder Beach rally.  The next few updates will be from the white sands on the Florida Panhandle.

  I will get MG to post Gap updates on facebook and I will send pics and info from the Rally.

   Really came here to wish my brother David a happy 40th Birthday as he is TDY at the army dive school away from his family.  Also we get a chance to take our grandmother, who lives in PC out for lunch.

  Checked out the slide area yesterday as I was heading out of town, and from what I saw they are working hard to get it cleaned up.  

  Don't forget, this weekend at the Gap is the Mini rally so take a moment to check out all the cool cars if that is your thing.  Even if it is not check them out at Fontana Village or at the Resort you will enjoy not only the cars but the folks at the rally are super nice as well.

  Ok folks time to hit the beach and grab some food.  Have a great day.

Aloha

Brad 

Tuesday April 27

 Good morning folks, looks like the rain is stalled over us for yet another day.  70% chance of showers until late tonight then clearing up for the rest of the week.

  Shout out to Molly and Paul from the Mini club was great to see them both yesterday.

  Yesterday was all rain but a few motorcycles were out and about with reports that The Dragon was clear of branches and leaves so they still had a great time.  Took a pass this morning and noticed that Parsons Branch gate was open so looks like the duel sporters have another rout to get to The Dragon from Cades Cove.

  Not much shaken today as we expect yet another quiet day with the rain.

  Hope everyone has a great tuesday.

Brad 

Monday April 26

  Hey Gang

  Welcome to a rainy and windy Monday morning.  Weekend went well, Sat was a wash out but things were in great shape on Sunday.  We see clouds leaving the area today and as the week goes the weather will get warmer with lots of sun.

  Great news I-40 reopened at 6:00pm last night so the truck traffic can once again get back on the 4-lanes and off US129.

  68 in the Ducktown area is also reopened so slowly we are getting the slides cleaned up.  Things on US129 remain the same, we continue to bug TDOT every week and get the updates.  Yvette Martinez from TDOT has been great keeping us updated as to the progress of the clean up.

  This week we see the arrival of the Mini Rally, some 500 plus Mini's this year will be hitting western NC and eastern TN.  A great group, excellent drivers and they keep on there side of the double yellow.  If you want to see some really cool cars head over to Fontana Village on NC28 that is where they will be based out of.  Again, a great group of folks and we welcome back again this year.

  The updates this weekend will be spotty as I am off to Panama City Beach to visit my Brother as he officially becomes old like me and turns 40.  I will update from the beach, will not be much Gap info involved I am sure lol.

  Everyone have a great day.

Brad 

Sunday April 25

  Good morning folks as we have a great day after the wicked storm last night, so far no reports of damage and the roads are in ok shape with some leaves and such on the road but no trees down.

  Cherokee rally seemed way down from our point of view but that tends to happen when rain is predicted like this weekend.

  Sat was very quiet so not much activity to report.  S2000 club did there group lunch again here at the Resort and a great time was had by all.  Thanks to the S2000 club always good to have your group back.

  Ok folks have a great sunday.

Brad 

Friday April 23

Friday April 23

  Howdy Folks and good Friday

  Busy weekend here at The Dragon with 4 Rallies in the area.  Cruiser rallies in Cherokee and Maggie Valley, the Busa Bash and the S2000's all visiting our area.  So far we have had a few minor accidents and one air lift off the Skyway.  Reminder for everyone to please be carful we hate to see anyone in even a minor spill.

  Sunny and 82 today, great day to ride but looks like we are in for some thunder storms.  The storm is a fast mover so looks like it clears out Sat evening and Sunday is mostly cloudy and mid 70's. 

  The Dragon is still open and sounds like everyone is having a wonderful time and most speeding tickets are wellllllll over the posted speed limit.

  Still no word other than the contractor is a head of schedule and working 10 hrs a day 6 days a week in hopes of getting the slide out of the way. 

  Ok folks, July is closing in if you still want a chance of winning a free trip to the MOTO GP in Indianapolis  get your raffle tickets now.  Check out the link at the top of the page for all the info.

  Ok folks back at it everyone have a great day.

Brad 

Tuesday April 20

  Good morning folks

  Looks like we are in for a little rain today, will be good to wash off all the pollen.  60% today but clearing up for a few days and then clouds on the weekend.  Temps start heading into the upper 70's and low 80's by friday.

  Still NO PHONES as a forest fire has damaged most of the trunk line.  Verizion is on it and working hard to get service back to this area.  Please email us for assistance.

brad@dealsgap.com

info@dealsgap.com

charity@dealsgap.com

  All 3 will get you to someone who can help.

  Rescue got there first call late last evening, a rider from Ontario low sided one mile from the store, no serious injuries just a broken hand.  Thanks Swain rescue for the help. 

Some reminders folks, please check out our ride for kids raffle at the top of the page, and for more updates during the day join our facebook page.

  Everyone have a great tuesday.

Brad 

Monday April 19

  Good morning Gang

  Seems we are having some serious phone issues in our area.  We are down to one line so if you do not get us please try again.  Verizon is on it and we hope to get back to normal service today.  Seems the bears needed to rewire the Den and have knocked some of the lines down.  Happens every year, wish the bears would stop remodeling lol.  

  If you need a question answered and the line is busy or not working, here are the emails you need

 Billing: michelle@dealsgap.com

reservations or online orders: charity@dealsgap.com

job info or applications: mg@dealsgap.com

general info either brad@dealsgap.com or info@dealsgap.com 

  This weekend went off without a issue or complaint, great time had by all.  Looks like we may get some more normal spring showers late this week.  Normally they come in the evening time but I would still carry some rain gear incase you run into a small shower or two.  So far does not look like we go beyond a 40-50% chance of scattered showers.  Typical spring stuff for us so you should get in lots of dry riding.

  Hope everyone has a great Monday

Brad 

Sunday April 18

  Good cooler morning folks, 39 on the Skyway at 9 am brrrrrr.  But looks like we are back in the 80's by the end of next week.  Still very little chance of rain in the next 7 days.

  Looks like we had a few minor issues in the Gap yesterday that resulted in a few tickets.  THP is really doing a fantastic job but some folks are forcing their hand.  Again they want everyone to be safe and when you endanger someone's life they will stop you.  I can not stress this enough, THP is only trying to keep folks safe and they are doing a great job at it.

  Ok on to happier notes, this has been the first week being reopened and folks are having a blast, we have not rolled EMS a single time nor have we required a tow truck for anything other than break downs.  One Semi ignored the 200 people trying to stop him yesterday.  THP held him at the turn around point until after 8PM when the road was closed.  Thanks to the troopers for squaring that yahoo away as a lot of folks told him the road was closed he was just being a complete tool.  All three car groups in the area this weekend had a great time and near perfect weather....see you guys next year thanks for visiting the Resort.  

  This week was also the end of our 6th year at the Resort.  We have done and seen a lot of changes.  Best of all we have met tons of wonderful people and made a lot of good friends.  To all our customers thanks for 6 wonderful years, you have been awesome.  We can not wait to see what the next 6 years brings us at the resort.   Thanks again, Brad, Beth, Connor, Hailey and the gap dogs.

  Ok Gang, off to ride Connor around on the fifty, have a wonderful day.

Brad 

Saturday April 17

  Hey Gang

 Been doing more dailies on the face book.  Not much change as far as the road info goes.  NDOT has put up a lot of confusing signs up.  Bryson City has a sign saying one lane open.  Nope not the case.  One sign in Robinsvile says road closed at the state line, nope not the case either, From the state line to mile marker 11 aka The Dragon is open still from 8 am to 8 pm seven days a week.  

  Three car clubs in the area this weekend but none of them very large so no congestion issues on the Dragon.  Next weekend is the two big rallies in NC so expect heavier traffic then.  

  Again big thanks to Swain and Graham county rescue for setting up n the parking lot every day to help out TN with emergency response.

  Weather has cooled down some and we got a few showers this morning.  Looks like mostly sunny from here on out for the next few days with highs more seasonal in the 70's.  

  Everyone have a great weekend.

Brad 

Wednesday April 14

  Good morning folks and it is shaping up to be the best april on record as far as riding goes, a blocking high has the temps up and the rain out.  Looks like 70's and 80's for the weekend again.

  Yes the Dragon is still open from 8 am until 8 pm 7 days a week.  You still have to get on the Dragon from the NC side.  Still no lane open at the rock slide.

  Groups this weekend are The Rotary club, Cross Fire club and the MRQ club.  All of the groups are relatively small so should not effect anyones riding.  Next weekend is the Cherokee and Maggie Valley rally as well as the Busa Bash so that weekend expect to see a lot of bikes around the Smoky Mountain National park in Cherokee and Gatlinburg.

  Thanks Swain and Graham county rescue squads as well as THP for keeping everything right on track in the Gap getting nothing but smiles from everyone coming back to the Resort.  

  Normally do not harp on TV shows, but my Deadliest Catch season just started and the opener was a great show, if you have not seen it yet you can find it on Discover 9pm on tuesdays.  People say we are nuts, check out what these guys do for a living....imaging Bearing straights, winter, hurricane force winds, -20 degrees, 30 foot seas all to catch crab.  No wonder this stuff costs a small fortune.

  Ok gang have a great day I am off tomorrow so check out the facebook page for updates from the gang.

  Brad

Tuesday April 13

 wow 82 and not a cloud in the sky, great for April.  Weather for the next week is looking just as good.

  Second day with the road reopened and only a few bumps and no major issues.  Thanks to both the Graham and Swain county resque squads for being on call and ready to roll this week from the store.

  Ok big news of the day if looking for a sport bike rental....thats right I said it sport bike rental check out our friends at www.sportbikes4hire.com (888)-914-4473.  They will now be renting sport bikes for the area.  Check them out.

  Big welcome to the Norway riders who passed our way today with Orgie...sorry probably just destroyed the spelling of your name lol...www.route66usa.info tour group.  20 riders and all had a great time judging from the smiles.  They are riding from Orlando to Boston, be safe guys and thanks for stopping in.

  Ok gang all we got for today, hope eveyone is out riding somewhere.

Brad 

Monday April 12

  Good Morning Folks

  Yes "The Dragon" reopened this morning at 8am Sharp.  Thanks TDOT for being right there with the key.

  Hours of operation for "The Dragon" will be 8am until 8pm 7 days a week until TDOT determines if and when they can open just one lane for traffic to pass into the rest of TN.  I will keep up with the TDOT folks and keep you up to date on how that is going.

  For pictures of the Gap as it opened today check out our facebook page.  I will also post a video latter today.

  THP is in "The Dragon" as well, one or two patrols will be in and out all day, they are not here to crush anyone just want to ensure everyone goes home safe, happy and on there bike not in the back of the ambulance, helicopter or worse.  All the rumors about a THP every 10 feet or they will write you 10 tickets for anything they can find is 100% horse crap.  Those folks have nothing better to do but make up this stuff so you will go to there web site.  Pathetic if you ask me.  A lot of agencies in TN and NC worked very hard to get this done so thanks to all of them.

  On to better things..... Weather is perfect for the next week.  Highs around 75-80 and lots of sun.  Skyway was cold this morning but will warm up fast.  

  Congratulations to all you Rossi fans as he racks up yet another win and what may end up as another championship year.  

  Well folks I am off to go make a pass on "The Dragon"  hope everyone has a great day.

 Brad 

Sunday April 11

  Good morning everyone

  We had a fantastic day yesterday warming up and sunny all day.  Forcast for the next 7 days has temps in the mid 70's.

  Yes The Dragon does open tomorrow at 8am but just from the NC side.  THP will re-lock the gate at 8pm.  The Dragon will operate this way for 7 days a week until the slide is cleaned up or they get one lane safely opened.  We have a detour map posted so you can see how to get to The Dragon from the north.

  Last night was the first fifty races and the spring big wheel race.  What a blast, thanks MG you did a great job organizing the event, best one yet.  Check out our facebook page for the pics and vid's from the races.  With the road closed we were able to do the bigwheel race in the daylight so we could see just how crazy these folks really are.  MG will be organizing more fifty races as the year progresses and we will post up as the dates are set.

  Hope everyone has a fantastic day and come over on Monday for the opening of the Dragon.

Brad 

Friday April 9

  Good Friday morning Gang

  Finished up the last piece of coordination with the EMS yesterday.  Swain and Graham county rescue will be posted up in the parking lot until one lane is open in TN for there EMS.  Graham county EMS has signed up to be the primary response for the Gap.

  Thank Graham County you have been great to work with on this issue.

  Also completed yesterday was a mutual aid agreement between Swain and Graham so that Graham county EMS can once again be part of the Deals Gap family and service accidents on NC28 and US129 in Swain county.  Both sides worked out a deal that is fair to both counties.  Graham county will receive compensation for the work in Swain.  Thanks all the Commissioners from both counties as well as Kim the Graham county manager and Kevin the Swain county Manager. 

  And it is still official "The Dragon" will reopen Monday 12 April from 8am-8pm.  At 8PM the gates will be closed by THP or TDOT until the next morning.  You will only be able to get on the road from the NC or Southern entrance.  TDOT and the contractors will be working hard to get one lane open as soon as they can to allow thru traffic.  But only if it safe and only if it does not slow down the contractors.

  Ok folks , also THP will be patrolling the gap to keep everyone safe, lets give them a break please have fun but lets not act like my 3 year old.  When this is all said and done I would like to see TN come away with the knowledge they did the right thing for both states and not think this was a total cluster.  I know this only goes to 1% of our riders out there so the rest just ignore me lol.

  Ok everyone have a great day, the weather here looks perfect for the next 7 days.

Brad 

Wednesday April 7

  MONDAY 12 APRIL 2010 THE DRAGON WILL BE OPEN AT 8 AM. 

Ok gang great news.....it is official well all but the lawyer to say ok.   TDOT will build a fence at the state line with a gate.  They will open the Dragon for use from 8am until 8pm from the NC side only.  There is still no way to get past the slide so you will have to turn around after the Dragon and return.  Two THP will patrol as well as Graham county EMS will be the medical support.

  MONDAY 12 APRIL 2010 THE DRAGON WILL BE OPEN AT 8 AM. 

  Folks we need to thanks for this are and they are not in order:  US Congressmen Heath Schuler, NC Sen John Snow, NC Rep Roger West, TN Sen Doug Overbey, TN Commissioner Gerald Nicely, TN Rep McCord, all the folks at TDOT, the Graham County Commissioners for all the EMS support, THP, NCHP NC and TN Governor's staff and most importantly all the wonderful motorcycle and sport car groups and people who took the time to write, email, fax and call letting these folks know how much you love our area. 

  Folks looks like great weather on Monday so come visit and ride the Dragon once again.

Brad 

Tuesday April 6

Email I just got folks, we are close to getting this done, looks like not till monday but will see if we can work hard to get it done faster.

 

Tennessee Senator Overbey & North Carolina Senator Snow,

 

The department is eager to open this facility and we believe that we will have everything on the Tennessee side ready to allow opening the road from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM 7 days a week beginning next Monday, April 12, 2010.

 

As a follow up to our recent discussions regarding the partial opening of US 129 to traffic, the department seeks your assistance in clarifying some issues that emergency service providers in Tennessee have brought to our attention.

 

First, the department has been successful in working with the Tennessee Highway Patrol to provide law enforcement on the closed section of US 129 between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM, 7 days per week until the slide can be cleared and the roadway opened.  The department has been able to secure approval from the FHWA to pay for the THP overtime required through federal emergency relief funds.  The plan will be to provide at a minimum 2 patrol units between the slide and the state line between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. This source of funding are not available for emergency medical services.

 

We will also be putting signage on US 129 at the State line entering Tennessee,  advising motorist that there will be limited emergency medical services on the dead end section of road.

 

The final issue that we are trying to address is that of emergency services for personal injury crashes that law enforcement and EMS entities in Blount County have brought to our attention.  Your assistance in getting a commitment from Graham County, North Carolina to provide EMS coverage is much appreciated.

 

Prior to the slide, 911 calls in his area would come to the Blount County EMS.  The crashes would first be responded to by THP or the Blount County Sheriff.  They in turn would contact the local fire department who would decide, based on conversations with law enforcement, what kind of EMS to send to the site (ambulance only, or ambulance and extraction units). Injured motorist would then be driven or life flighted to trauma facilities in Blount or Knox Counties. Response times to crashes in this vicinity were on the order of 1 hour.

 

The department does not expect response times to be identical to pre-slide time frames, however, we feel that we need to have a reasonable expectation of what to expect under this proposal from North Carolina to provide emergency medical services. Emergency service providers in Blount County are particularly concerned in this regard. It is our understanding that Graham County, North Carolina  EMS has a response time somewhat longer than the 1 hour from the Tennessee side and that no trauma facilities exist near the North Carolina side of the slide and  the nearest trauma center is located in Ashville, a considerable distance away. We also understand that Graham County EMS has very limited equipment and may not be able to assist in a timely fashion when the need arises.

 

We are seeking a plan from North Carolina that lays a strategy for addressing emergency medical services. We feel that they need to provide the State of Tennessee with a plan that provides a schedule and a identifies equipment and resources available to provide emergency medical services (ambulance and extraction) to this section of road.

 

With this information, the department can ensure a safe transportation facility to the users of US 129.

 

The department will continue to work diligently to reopen the road due to the slide as soon as possible.

 

The Tennessee Department of Transportation seeks a response to this request as soon as possible.

 

Please feel free to contact me at Paul.Degges@tn.gov or by phone at (615) 741-0791.

 

Paul D. Degges, P.E.

Assistant Commissioner/Chief Engineer

Tennessee Department of Transportation

 

Tuesday April 6

  Good morning from another hot day here at Deals Gap.  Looks like temps will top 80 again today before the rain hits late wen night dropping our temps back into the 60's for a few days.

  Our first group event of the year is scheduled for this week, R32's will be hitting the area this weekend.  Also planned this week is 50 racing in the parking lot.  Hotel is full so should be a fun evening.  If you have never seen this group of 100% certified nut jobs come out and watch.  

  No official date on t he road reopening but we are trying to get one so we can let everyone know.

  Not much else going on.  Hope everyone has a fantastic Tuesday.

Brad 

Monday April 5

  Ok Gang it is official, TN will sign off on Graham county letter of EMS support.  Thanks to all the letters, emails, phone calls and faxes you sent in.  

  But lets also thank the State of TN for letting NC help.  Also, Thank you THP I know that you will have a hard patrol schedule and are going the extra mile to get the road reopened.

  This week I will change the save the gap banner to a site listing all the critical political and private players that helped us along the way.  Please feel free to thank those folks as much as we asked for there help.  All too often we are quick to judge and complain but we never take the time to say thanks...present company included.  So I will make sure I take this opportunity to express my thanks for all of there work as a team.

  OK now for the WARNING.....this is not a closed course folks, traffic will be going both ways and not all just motorcycles.  TVA and Alchoa will be bussing there folks between the dams.  Please do not cross the double line thinking it is safe to do so.  Crossing will put you at risk of serious injury or a fatality.  Also, please do not complain if THP gives you a ticket for crossing they only want everyone to be safe.  They would prefer not to write a single ticket and see everyone go home safe and happy.

  Thanks again Gang 

Monday April 5

  Good monday morning folks, we had a outstanding weekend with tons of sunshine and warm weather.  Looking at 85 today.  We expect some rain and cooler temps on wen/thurs but we will still be in the mid to upper 60's.  Rain will only last one evening so still looking at a great spring.

  Ok folks here is the latest email I have revieved from the Senator's working on getting the Dragon open.  Lets all hope this is the final piece of the puzzle.  Please keep up the emails and calls until we get the barricade moved.  Big thanks to everyone who already has.

Saturday April 3

  Good Morning everyone

  Wonderful day yesterday with a high of 81 and all sun.  Today we are looking at warm again but a chance of rain.  Looks like the rain will be late afternoon or early evening.

  Ok everyone knows my commute is currently taking me over the skyway every morning.  If you ever get a chance to hit the skyway at sunrise or sunset I highly recommend it, the scenery at that time is spectacular.

  Warning on the Skyway, today I was met by a commercial 18 wheeler and in my lane imagine that.  With all the commercial roads connecting NC and TN closed expect to see a few trucks on  the skyway.  Not all of them will be willing to take the posted detour for commercial traffic on US 26 in Asheville.  

  Ok now for the latest rumors on the road....NO it will not be closed for 3 years.  No Big Foot is not attacking bikers.  And No Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort has not been sold to the highway patrol to put a detachment in (yesterdays phone call).

  Want to extend our congratulations to Josh Ritter on his recent engagement.....run now while you have a chance....oopppssss I mean we are all very happy for you.  For those of you who do not know Josh all you have to do is look at any building on our property for Josh's dad Marty has been our contractor for the entire remodeling of the resort.  Josh has worked along side Marty for just about every step of the way.  Again good luck Josh.

  Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

Brad 

Friday April 2

Good morning and a happy good friday to everyone.  Things contiue to move forward on getting the Dragon reopened by Wen next week.  Waiting now for all the paperwork to be signed so the barricade can be moved.

  Key things to remember:

 1-  It will not be one way traffic, you have to turn around and come back to the resort.

2-  Two way traffic will mean crossing the double yellow puts you at risk as well as other motorcycle riders.  Will resault in serious injury or a fatality.

3-  THP will patrol ever day until the slide is gone, this is for our protection NOT I say again NOT to write endless tickets and use it as a revinue builder.

  Easy stuff gang, we can have the Dragon for once without semi traffic on it.  No word yet when the road will be open for thru traffic that will be up to the rock slide when they bring it down.  But just at $2 million for the winning contract I do not see it as taking long or they will be losing money fast.

  Now for the rumors, hope I can get them all right lol.

No the road is not being removed and turned into part of the cades cove loop.  No the tree of shame has not been cut down.  No TDOT did not cause the rock slide on purpose.  No THP is not tazzing folks for approaching the barricades.  That is the ones from this week lol.

  If you have any questions or a funny rumor you have heard send them in to info@dealsgap.com would love to hear them.

  Hope everyone has a great easter weekend, eat tons of candy or better yet feed your kids tons of candy and see how hyper they get.

Brad 

Thursday April 1

 NEWS FLASH GANG

   This is a email I just received from TN State Sen Doug Overbey.

Rep. McCord and I just had a meeting with TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely.  Comm. Nicely indicated he thinks they have the law enforcement piece worked out or nearly worked out for the Highway Patrol to patrol the Dragon during daylight hours (8 to 8).  They do not, however, have the EMS piece worked out and he says it will take a written commitment from North Carolina that the state of North Carolina can provide suitable and appropriate EMS coverage.  This written commitment needs to come from someone in North Carolina with authority to commit the resources to provide EMS coverage and needs to be addressed jointly to Commissioner Nicely and Safety Commissioner Mitchell.  If such a letter is and can be forthcoming, please favor me with a copy. 

  As you can see folks TN is stepping up to the plate here and working on the deal.  Now the ball is back in our court in NC and will continue to work the deal.  Thanks for everyones support.  If we get this deal done it will be our turn to support the THP and EMS units on the gap by working together to keep it safe so they can complete the clean up. 

Thursday April 1

  Ok folks great news, I have worked out a deal to purchase 14 miles of US129 called the Dragon from the State of TN and will operate it as a toll road.  Daily and Seasonal passes will be made availible to Motorcycles only.  Deal will be completed in the next few weeks so be ready.

  Ok Good April 1st....aka April fools day.  Still no word on when and if we will get the Dragon reopened until the slide is cleaned up so please keep up the work, I am calling and emailing Sen Snow and US Congressman Shuler every day.  I know they are working hard so lets help them out and let the TN folks know how much we love the area.

  Weather will be the best of the season the next week, highs in the upper 70's and lower 80's over the next 7 days.  A small chance of rain Sat late or Sun early but only about 20-30% so we are in great shape.

  We should start seeing the equipment moving to the rock slide the end of the week and through the weekend as the have to start in the next 5 days.  We are hoping they jump on it fast and get it done early. 

  We will be welcoming Kyle and the ride for kids group today for lunch, if you are up and see them please thank them for all the hard work they do for children with brain tumors.  You can also stop in and see the bike they will be giving away at the ride for kids Lap of Champions during the Aug Moto GP in Indianapolis.  In conjunction with that event we are doing a raffle for a weekend package at the race that includes a lap at the brickyard on your bike.  Please check out the link at the top of the page for all the details as well as purchasing of tickets.

  Hope everyone has a fantastic day.

Brad 

Wednesday March 31

  Great Morning everyone, not a cloud in the sky.  It is shaping up to be the best weekend all year.....80's this weekend, now thats riding weather.  If you hit the skyway in the morning remember that it is 10-15 degrees cooler at the top.  So still in the 30's and 40's first thing in the morning.

  As everyone saw the contract has been rewarded and work will begin soon, at a $1.99 million dollar bid I suspect they will work fast as that does not sound like a lot of money for a clean up.  Tn and NC will lose that much in sales tax the first 30 days the road is closed.  

  In other Gap news, looks like the 50cc races are back on, 10 April will be the first one at the resort and with 13 rooms filled with racers it is shaping up to be a big one.  So if you want to see a bunch of grown men and women riding 50cc bikes dam near killing each other come out around 8pm.  

  Ok folks my day off so time to hang with Connor and Hailey hope everyone has a great day.

Brad 

Monday March 29

Monday March 29

  Good morning gang

  Raining and fog is the order of todays weather.  Typical for this time of year but starting tomorrow a warm and sun trend caring us into a wonderful weekend.  80 on friday now thats what I like to see. 

  No news this morning on the continued closure of US129 at the state line.  Contract is to be awarded today and will have to see where it goes from there.  The meeting on Friday was positive from the NC side now we are waiting on a response from TN.

  Well with two days of rain and a closed road not much to report on a monday morning so as soon as we here who gets the contract we will update you more.

Thanks

Brad 

Saturday March 27

  Ok folks we are now in a holding pattern on the road being closed to see if TN is willing to save our community or let it die all for the sake of......well have no idea really, we can provide the EMT service, THP is already here so I fail to see the problem.  This weekend's Politician to contact will be US Congressmen John Duncan.   Lets have him show up to work on monday with thousands of emails from tourists concerned by the road closure and concern that TN will not be willing to work in partnership with NC.

TN Governor: Governor Phil Bredesen Governor's Office Tennessee State Capitol Nashville, TN 37243-0001 Phone: 615.741.2001 Fax: 615.532.9711 Phil.Bredesen@tn.gov

TN US Congressman: Congressman John J Duncan JR 2207 Rayburn House Office Bldg. Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-5435 Fax: 202-225-6440 http://www.house.gov/writerep/

TN State Representative: Senator Doug Overbey 4 Legislative Plaza Nashville, TN 37243-0208 Phone: 615-741-0981 or  800-449-TENN, ext. 10981 Fax: 615-253-0224 Sen.Doug.Overbey@capitol.tn.gov

  Thanks Gang, have a great day it will be perfect here.

Brad 

Friday March 26

Ok folks meeting is over, just reread my notes and here it is in a nut shell:

  Contract will be awarded monday afternoon.  Clean up must begin by 5 april but they can start sooner.  Finish date is 31 July 2010 however, huge bonus for finishing before that.  TDOT has placed what they call a safe date and are not really sure it will take that long but feel that was a date they could live with.  

  The barricade at the state line:  It will stay there until we can get a few issues sorted out.  Swain and Graham county commissioners stated they would have no issues crossing the state line and emergency management teams concurred there is no legal issues with that.  The law enforcement is the big issue as it is not as easy to transfer jurisdiction because of liabilities and the dangerous nature of there business.   Congressmen Heath Shuler feels that we can work with other avenues such as federal money to help pay for Blount county or TVA to work the gap if THP feel they can not accommodate.  For what I heard in this meeting, most of the agencies will not have a issue moving the barricade back it is THP that will be the hold up.  Congressmen Heath Shuler, Sen John Snow and Rep Roger West, all from NC will be working hard to make a deal fast with TN on getting this done.  No one wants this to be a free for all but wants everyone to be able to enjoy the Dragon and have a great time in the area.  

  What can you do top help:  Ok time to lay off the NC emails and calls other than your letters of thanks and encouragement as they are clearly on our team.  We as well as our Congressmen need you to contact the Governors office not by email but please call as emails are not being addressed, email the other TN officials from our save  the gap link.  We need them to understand that they will lose more tourism dollars as almost all the places to stay are in there districts not western NC.  So lets get the emails rocking and burn up the phones.  The NC folks said they got a overwhelming response and have heard the call.  Thanks Gang, I can not tell you how proud I was to hear that, we have a wonderful community.  

Brad 

Thursday March 25

Thursday March 25

Wednesday March 24

WARNING FALSE INFORMATION BEING PUT OUT BY TDOT AND BEING REPORTED ON OTHER WEB SITES.  Ok folks TDOT has confirmed that 1 Sep is NOT I say again NOT the expected reopen date for The Dragon.  There twitter page is linked directly to there electronic message system for the highway.  They have to put a date on it for the system to work so they just picked that one.  I talked with them and they do not have a date.  The contract will be awarded on Monday and that is when the Officale time schedual will be set.  Again, 1 Sep is misinformation.  I will post up the real info as soon as TDOT calls me.

Brad 

Wednesday March 24

  Good Morning everyone

  Looks like today is going to be warm and sunny, will be a great day for a ride.  We are looking at a chance of rain Thursday but the weekend is looking ok and best of all warm.  

  Still working on the road, hope we can get some positive results in a meeting on Fri with state and local officials.  US Congressman Heath Shuler drafted a letter last night from himself and TN Congressman John J Duncan JR requesting that the mutual aid agreement between the states is worked out.  They both site on the Federal Highway comity and as US129 is a federal highway I hope this will carry some weight with it.  Next stop will be the Governors offices as it will be up to them to work out that deal.  So lets double our effort on the two Governors offices so we can encourage them to help out.  

  In the mean time the Resort will change our hours of operation.  Until an agreement is signed we will not open until 9am and will close at 5pm until we see a increase in traffic.  Once the road reopens we will move back to our normal hours.

  Check  out the link at the top of the page for the email addresses as well as join our facebook page as we will continue to update the road status as it changes there.

  Have a great morning folks.

Brad 

Tuesday March 23

 Ok folks more clarification and some encouraging news this morning on the US 129 rockslide.  

  Clarification:  The facts are the slide is just south of the foothills parkway so currently you can not get to the Gap from US129, TN72, Happy Valley or the foothills parkway.  The Dragon is closed at the state line.  It was Graham county not NC that has offered support to get the Dragon open but with all you emails the state is getting involved.  

 Ok this morning I have several emails from TN as well as NC officials and am in the process of setting up a meeting with several agencies to see if we can get a mutual aid agreement between the two states that will allow the road to be reopened at least to Tabacat bridge so we can all still enjoy the road.

  I will tell you that so far all the responses from both Tn and NC have been positive and that is great.  That is encouraging to me that the states seem willing to work together on this.  

  So look at the top of the web page you will see our new "Save the Gap" link.  We need emails of encouragement to all of our state reps.  Let them know how much everyone would love to see the states work together on this and thank them for there support and work.  We can  not control nature and do not wish anyone hurt doing a rush job on a clean up.  But our government is supposed to work together like they are now and fix the things they can control like where the road block is placed.

  Ok, back onto Gap business.  April 10th we will host 50cc races in the parking lot.  Give MG a call at 800-889-5550 if interested.  I know we already have 6 or 7 rooms booked with racers already.   

  Skyway once again covered in snow and ice so lets hope for warm weather. Everyone have a great day.

Brad

Monday March 22

  Good....and can you believe it a very snowy morning.  74 degrees yesterday and snowing today.  The skyway on the TN side is in terrible condition...maybe because the state snow plow guys are living in a trailer with no water at the road block on US129.  The NC side is doing ok, snow plows were working hard and laying down salt.  

  We are closed today with the bad weather but things are shaping up for another great weekend so come on up and enjoy the NC roads.

  Still not a peep from any state agency from either side on what is going on here.  WLOS has not responded either, guess we will need a few dead bodies to get there help.  Oh well please keep pounding away folks.   I will put together a web page page today with all the contact info for all the local politicians and news teams you can continue to contact.

Sunday March 21

Hey Gang

  Fantastic day yesterday, 70 degrees and sunny.  A few riders were out and about and enjoying both 129 south and NC 28 while the Dragon remains closed at the state line.  The skyway is in great shape but with the snow still melting watch for water on the road.

  Still no word on the road but we will be back into it bright and early on monday morning.  

  Today is shaping up to be nice as well but looks like we are in for some rain on monday and possible tuesday, lets hope that knocks the rest of the rock down so they can get things moving.

  Thanks for all the calls and emails to our state and federal reps, and yes we are still open and plan on staying that way.   

  Hope everyone has a great day 

Saturday March 20

ok gang time to get the news involved:

 http://www.wlos.com/sections/station/newsteam.shtml

  This lists all of the local reporters and anchors for our news team.  Please pick out a few and drop them a email to encourage them to visit us so we can get the story out.

Thanks

 Brad 

Saturday March 20

  First this morning I need to thank everyone with all the emails and support.  Keep up the emails and phone calls to both of the Governors offices.  We got a lot of support from SEN John Snow yesterday so that is good news.  

  Still no word on dates or times the slide will be removed.  TDOT is waiting the plans from the geologists and then for the contractor to tell them how long to do it. 

  From all the positive comments we will continue to stay open with a limited staff but we do have gas and food so stop by.

  So with the Dragon closed try NC28 between the store and Fontana Dam it is just as curvy as the Dragon.  I take the skyway to work everyday and that is a great road as well, but still watch for a little ice and snow the elevation is much higher and will be a few more days before it all melts off.

  Thanks Gang have a great day.

Brad 

Friday March 19

  Ok Gang

  I know the rumor mill is going 100mph and we are trying to track down all of it.

  So here goes what we know as fact:  There is a landslide on US129 right near the foothills parkway, mile marker 13/14.  They have yet to issue the official time line to get it fixed as the state is still working the stabilization plan.  NC has offered to provide mutual aid to keep the Dragon open but TN has not accepted it.   As of today the Dragon is closed at the state line by the state of TN.  

  Ok we are working everyone we know and a few we don't to try and get TN to help out the road and the local economy by accepting a mutual aid agreement.

  Please contact the TN Governor office and let him know is a respectful manner that we need him to change his mind on this issue.  Here is his Info:

 Governor's Office

Tennessee State Capitol 
Nashville, TN 37243-0001 

Phone: 615.741.2001
Fax: 615.532.9711
Email: Phil.Bredesen@tn.gov

Key Departments :

Constituent Services	615.532.4562
Communications	615.741.3763
Scheduling	615.741.3867

  Please contact the NC Governor and let her know we need her help and support. 

Fax: (919)733-2120 

  As for the resort:  We are open for the time being, we will contiue to monator this siuation and judge what services we can contiue to offer.  Remember we have a lot of great riding in Western NC still so as long as we can stay open we will.  If the road block is moved we will contiue to operate, but if we fail to get TN on our side I am not sure.

Gang, thanks for all the support you have been the best group of folks to hang with for the past six years.  

Thanks

Brad