Remembering Charles Newsome

Words: Mason Contractors

Charles Newsome, formerly of Johnson Concrete Products and Past Chair of NCMA, passed away on December 28th. Charles joined the Stalite/Johnson Concrete family in 1968 as General Manager and led the companies for fifty years. Charles also had been a key leader of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff Program, which would help support research, education, and promotion intended to benefit all within the industry. We reflect on our fond memories as Charles was a continuous supporter of the MCAA. In particular, we will always have fond memories of Charles collecting our hats over the years.  

His commitment to the industry was further highlighted when he was honored with the Leadman Award in 2016 during the MCAA Convention at the World of Concrete in Las Vegas. This prestigious award symbolizes Charles's exceptional leadership in advancing the masonry sector, recognizing his tireless dedication and volunteer support over the years. The MCAA extends our sincerest condolences to all of those who had the pleasure of knowing Charles Newsome, and he will be missed dearly. 

Properties and Advantages of Brick Cavity Walls
June 2026

Many compound words are self-explanatory "descriptive names." Sunglasses are glasses that block the sun. A fireplace is a place to build a fire. A cavity wall is exactly that: a wall assembly that contains a cavity. Previously, this concept was used prim

The “Small Job” Safety Trap: Why Safety Sometimes Fades When the Spotlight Disappears
June 2026

Before I was fortunate enough to lead Malta Dynamics, I spent a couple of years as a traveling salesman for the company. My territory covered the entire country (and some beyond), and in a typical year, I visited more than 100 jobsites across nearly every

Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
June 2026

As a business owner and leader, taking the mental health of your employees seriously and understanding how it can impact their work is essential. In fact, one in five adults experiences a mental health condition annually. Addressing mental health is more

Bonding with Masonry 2026: Q2
June 2026

This issue’s questions come from a Mason Contractor and an Engineer. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk.