https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_microbe damn, we gotta get ourselves a state microbe
State microbe - Wikipedia

quick, someone discover a novel antibiotic

Oregon went with a yeast. That's a pretty good microbe to have.

New Jersey and Illinois both went with an antibiotic. Also great microbe choices.

the story of how all modern penicillin production dates back to one moldy cantaloupe in Peoria is getting to me

https://www.the-scientist.com/how-a-moldy-cantaloupe-took-fleming-s-penicillin-from-discovery-to-mass-production-72304

How a Moldy Cantaloupe Took Fleming’s Penicillin from Discovery to Mass Production

Alexander Fleming’s 1928 discovery of a mold with antibacterial properties was only the first serendipitous event on the long road to penicillin as a life-saving drug.

The Scientist Magazine®
illinois was firing on all cylinders that year
can you believe Wisconsin didn't vote in a state microbe
@BestGirlGrace No kidding, literally need a microbe to make firm cheese, c'mon Wisconsin it's right there!