Gene Adamcik poured 32 years of his life into improving the Heart O’ Texas Speedway, the oldest track of its kind in Texas. A Friday night race honored his legacy.
Justin Hamel
Justin Hamel is a visual journalist for the Bridge through a partnership with Catchlight and Report for America. He’s excited to help shape the Bridge’s visual journalism by ensuring every story includes strong visuals. His goal is to create meaningful photos that reflect Waco by listening deeply to people within the community; photographing not only the concerns impacting their lives, but also the celebrations, dreams and traditions. Before joining the Waco Bridge, Justin Hamel spent six years in El Paso as a freelance photojournalist covering migration along the U.S.-Mexico border and the energy industry in the Permian Basin.
Waco’s downtown courthouse, up for sale, is home to New Deal legacy
Waco’s federal courthouse is home to a New Deal legacy and historic artwork by Eugenie Shonnard.
Photos: Contested races bring Election Day crowds to McLennan County polls
Republican and Democratic primary elections brought crowds to McLennan County’s 39 vote centers on Tuesday. Vote centers at Waco Assembly of God and Hewitt Public Library saw heavy use as usual, while the Waco Multipurpose Center site got a boost from the appearance of U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Dallas, who has been in a fierce […]
Sawdust, dynasties and prize buckles: Youth livestock show tests animal rearing skills
Whether showing rabbits or steers, competitors took pride in the results of their hard work in feeding and tending their animals.
Photographer’s notebook: Behind the scenes of “Becoming Mariachis”
What started as a routine photo essay became something more as the Bridge team got to know the student mariachis and saw their confidence bloom.
Becoming Mariachis: A season with University High’s Los Mariachi Troyanos
The teenage members of Los Mariachi Troyanos learn confidence and connection in their journey through traditional Mexican music.
Photo essay: Honoring MLK’s legacy of peace and justice
Waco celebrated the civil rights leader with a peace march across the Suspension Bridge, followed by a gospel extravaganza.
Photo essay: The shimmering glow of late-night Waco
The Waco Bridge’s photojournalist captures the mysterious shadows and the riot of neon light that paint the dark streets of Waco at night.
Photo essay: Experiencing the wonder and welcome of Waco in 2025
Night swimming, punk rock shows, polka madness and dinnertime with a family are among the indelible memories of the Bridge’s photojournalist in his first year getting to know Waco.
Photo essay: Tru Jamaica back to dishing out Caribbean delights on Taylor Street 3 years after fire
Customers kept Tru Jamaica alive in food trucks and temporary locations while it rebuilt from a fire. Owners are hoping they’ll rediscover the rebuilt location.

