Brownstone Midwest Supper Club April 14 with Dr. Steven Templeton

We are pleased to announce the next meeting of the Brownstone Midwest Supper Club on April 14, 2025, featuring Dr. Steven Templeton, author of “Fear of a Microbial Planet: How a Germophobic Safety Culture Makes Us Less Safe.”

About Dr. Templeton:

Dr. Templeton is an Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at Indiana University School of Medicine – Terre Haute. His research focuses on immune responses to opportunistic fungal pathogens. He has also served on Gov. Ron DeSantis’s Public Health Integrity Committee and was a co-author of “Questions for a COVID-19 commission,” a document provided to members of a pandemic response-focused congressional committee.

About the talk:

In his talk, Dr. Templeton will examine how the Covid-19 response exemplified our culture’s excessive fear of microbes, resulting in counterproductive policies that may have caused more harm than good. He will discuss how the pandemic amplified existing germophobic tendencies in society, leading to interventions that disrupted the natural relationship between our immune systems and the microbial world. Dr. Templeton will offer insights into how we can develop more balanced and effective approaches to public health challenges without the devastating social, economic, and psychological costs of germaphobia-driven overreach.

Join us for an evening of stimulating conversation, delicious food, and community connection as we explore these vital ideas together.

Venue & Details
Lennie’s is a beloved Bloomington institution known for its warm atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and craft beer selection. For over 30 years, Lennie’s has been bringing people together over delicious food and drink in a setting perfect for meaningful conversation.

Location & Parking
Lennie’s is located at 514 E. Kirkwood Ave in the heart of downtown Bloomington, Indiana. Street parking is available along Kirkwood Avenue and surrounding streets (metered until 9pm). There are several parking garages within walking distance.

Ticket Information
$50 per person includes a tasty buffet dinner and drinks.  Space is limited so secure your spot now!

Travel Information
Accommodations
Excellent hotels within walking distance of Lennie’s:

• Grant Street Inn – A historic charming local inn
• Graduate Bloomington – A boutique hotel celebrating Indiana University’s heritage

For more information contact Joni McGary at jonimcgary@me.com. Please include “supper club” in the subject line