The first destination is Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island, New York, with a gathering of scientists who discovered that certain bacteria and algae had an interesting immune system. They produced enzymes which would cut DNA at specific sites, and that would protect them from foreign DNA. The site specific enzymes would not harm the organism’s DNA since that site was not present in the host.

Those enzymes could be isolated and purified, and could then be used to cut DNA into fragments, and then another enzyme called a ligase could re-join DNA fragments into unique sequences. This was the basis of genetic engineering and cloning. When I first started Promega in 1978 I created a library of these enzymes, about 20 at first, and this was the basis for the start of the business.

So tonight and tomorrow, the people from those days including Nobel prize winners, will get together and tell stories of the “old days”. It is a unique historic moment, bringing together the discoverers and inventors who did this pioneering work so many years ago and honoring the past, recognizing those people who helped to create an industry and establish biotechnology.

It’s a beautiful fall day, crisp air, leaves falling with the temperature. Normally I would consider starting up the fireplace for the first wood fire of the season, drying more apple slices for holiday gifts, a walk on the bike path just a few hundred feet away.

But today is different, with the many small activities that need taking care of prior to departing on a long voyage: emptying the frig of perishables, check doors and security system, water the plants, final check of baggage items, last checks written for bills that will need paying.

As I walk down the sidewalk, I briefly turn to look at the house one more time, pausing for the brief moment of reflection on the journey ahead, but also contemplating how it will all look in 30 days with a dusting of snow.

The day and the journey begins with deep gratitude for the many wonderful people who have made this possible, with their work, support and love.

Planning, gathering, packing and contemplating the highest and best outcomes for this priceless opportunity to explore this amazing planet we need to care for.

Organizing and packing lists, of course. At least this is a journey on planet earth, not a 4 year starship voyage to Mars.