The replacement facility for MBMHI still needs a site, but we know it won’t be on Moccasin Bend. | Photo by PapaBear via Chattanooga Tourism Co.
In case you missed it, Moccasin Bend has made quite the headlines over the last year as it was being scoped for the development of a new facility to replace the Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute (MBMHI). Now, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee has announced the state will not build on the land.
This decision comes after the initial results from an archeological review that’s being conducted on the state-owned portion of the land — the first since the institute was first built in 1961. Let’s break down the study + the efforts that led to this decision.
“While land use decisions on the Bend haven’t always taken these precious resources into account, a new story begins with this decision by the Governor,” said Administrator of Parks and Outdoors Scott Martin.
Key findings
Crews found 73% of the state-owned MBMHI site contains resources that show Native American life and culture from layers of historic + pre-contact materials — think: pits, hearth materials, etc.
No human remains or burials were found, but the presence of the Woodland Period (700 B.C. through 1000 A.D.) features indicates there could be more found on the site.
The site has areas that showcase strong preservation and integrity.
Local efforts
While the state owns 86 acres that the institute sits on, Moccasin Bend spans across 956 acres as a National Archeological District. This designation was accomplished in 2003, making history as the country’s first and only national archeological district.
Throughout all that time, local nonprofit National Park Partners have been advocating to keep developments off the land. You might have seen the “Save the Bend” petitions + public forumsover the last few months.
Looking to be a part of the conservation efforts for Moccasin Bend’s history and future? Start by joining in on upcoming events + discussions.
You can also expect full findings of the study to be released in November as the state continues its search for a location that better fits the ~$260 million development.
Asked
How many Native American Tribal Nations are connected to Moccasin Bend?
“Joker: Folie à Deux” | Monday, Sept. 30 | 7-9:18 p.m. | Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater | $10+ | Get a “fan-first” look at Joaquin Phoenix’s return as this iconic DC Comics’ villain.
Tuesday, Oct. 1
Mini Halloween Glitter Globes | Tuesday, Oct. 1 | 4-5 p.m. | Collegedale Public Library, Collegedale | Free | Use a kit to craft your own seasonal scene that will leave all the ghouls talking — no library card is needed.
NoogaLights | Tuesday, Oct. 1-Sunday, Nov. 3 | Times vary | The Chattanooga Choo Choo | $11+ | This immersive and family-friendly light show will feature nearly 1 million Halloween-themed lights.
Wednesday, Oct. 2
Noontunes | Wednesday, Oct. 2 | 12-1 p.m. | Miller Park | Free+ | Spend your lunch break in the park while enjoying food, games, and a performance by In the Company of Wolves.
Thursday, Oct. 3
Cirque du Soleil: “OVO” | Thursday, Oct. 3-Sunday, Oct. 6 | Times vary | McKenzie Arena | $55+ | From mighty crickets bouncing off trampolines to a hypnotic spider contorting inside her web, you’ll witness the acrobatic whims of imagination.
Saturday, Oct. 5
October Beer Fest — Chattanooga Red Wolves SC vs One Knoxville | Saturday, Oct. 5 | 6:30 p.m. | CHI Memorial Stadium | $17+ | October Beer Fest is back. Look forward to Octoberfest fan challenges (ever tried holding 14 beer steins?), pregame food + drink specials, games, and more.*
The new J. A. Henry Community YMCA facility has officially opened on Dodds Avenue. The renovated space includes upgraded equipment + a teaching kitchen for community nutrition education and workforce development. This space will also support programs like the Mobile Market.
Sports
Chattanooga Football Club has parted ways with Sporting Director and Head Coach Rod Underwood, who saw the team to its success in the National Independent Soccer Association + its MLS NEXT Pro deal. Assistant Coach Chris Nugent will be the interim coach for the remainder of the season.
Award
The Chattanooga Police Department’s Crime Analysis Unit was recently awarded first place for “Statistical Reporting” at the International Association of Crime Analysts Conference. The recognition was based on data + the innovative approaches used in the unit’s 2023 Annual Report.
Arts
Red Bank Public Art Board has announced an artist call for an upcoming mural project. Local artists will be tasked with painting murals on the facilities building at the Red Bank City Park + Kids Corner Playground — apply for pre-qualification by Tuesday, Oct. 8
Try This
If you’re looking to be more adventurous but aren’t sure where to start, you can join Four Bridges Outfitters for a Backpacking 101 course on Thursday, Oct. 10. From 6:30 to 8 p.m., folks will learn more about gear, packs (including pack fitting + packing), and other resources like Leave No Trace.
Hey, Nooga high school juniors, seniors, and parents: UTC is hosting a free College Quest event on Friday, Oct. 18 to interactively introduce high school students to the college offerings and careers that await them in healthcare, STEM, and computer science. See details + register for personalized lab tours, career-specific excursions + more.*
Listen
Ready to silence the chaos and hear what matters? These next-gen hearing aids are here to crush the noise and put you back in control. With razor-sharp sound and a stealthy design, they’re your little secret. Hear the difference.*
The Buy
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Fast-dissolving melatonin mints that support sleep hygiene. They’re sugar-free and formulated with a natural blend of lemon balm, chamomile, passion flower, and elderberry — all ingredients that help regulate your sleep cycle and promote relaxation.
While I’m not the biggest fan of the weather I seem to have brought in from my Florida trip, I am glad to be back with you all. During my time reading on the beach, I got a nice little reminder of home in Lakiesha Carr’s “An Autobiography of Skin,” which mentions none other than Bessie Smith on the opening page.
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