New inductees into the National Mining Hall of Fame come from a vast range of occupations – and centuries – but all have made a significant contribution to the mining industry.”They’re educators, researchers, civic leaders, scientists of all types,” announcer Thomas Falkie told the crowd. “Their one commonality is that they have contributed to the minerals community.”George Oates Argall, Jr. (1913-2002) was inducted at the ceremony. An engineer and publisher, he traveled the world reporting on mining operations in more than 65 countries. Argall’s daughter Joan and her family attended the banquet and Falkie asked them to stand and be acknowledged. John F. “Leadville Johnny” Campion (1849-1917) was next. Falkie explained he made his fortune as a prospector in Leadville, and later founded the Denver Museum of Natural History.”There’s a posse of Leadville Johnny’s descendants here tonight,” said Falkie as nearly a dozen people stood up from their tables.James M. Gerstley (1907-) was the only inductee still alive, but was unable to attend the ceremony due to poor health. Gerstley was president of U.S. Borax & Chemical Company. Gerstley’s son from Santa Monica attended the ceremony to accept his father’s plaque for him.Charles R. Nailler (1910-1981) was a mechanical engineer who became a Consolidated Coal Company senior vice president. Falkie said Nailler contributed to mining machinery and mining systems, and was known as a dynamic leader. Nailler’s son and wife accepted applause on behalf of Nailler.Edwin Noel (Penne) Pennebaker (1902-1905) was a geologist who traveled the world devising exploration programs for copper and ore. He was also named a Legion of Honor member of the Society of Mining Engineers. Russell L. Wood (1927-2001) was first a miner, then after graduating from Colorado School of Mines, became the senior vice president of the New Jersey Zinc Co., and later president of Asamera Minerals. “Russ was a noble miner and a gentleman,” said Falkie. – Carrie Click