MANASSAS — Stephanie Williams has been an active force in Latino communities for most of her life.
Before moving to Virginia in 1989 she had been an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) member helping farmworkers in California as well as a teacher in South America.
Once moving to Prince William County however, Williams dove into several roles dedicated to bridging the gaps within the local Latino community. One such role was in creating the only local Spanish language television program in the county Panorama Latino.
The show began as a response to a tragedy, just a few days before Christmas in the early 1990s, a Hispanic family found themselves caught in a house fire that started in the basement. Only one member of the family, a young boy, lived while the rest of the family died in the flames.
“I believe that bringing information to the Hispanic community in their native or primary language is more impactful and beneficial in letting the people know what is going on in their community,” said Williams.
Panorama Latino began its original run in 1991 when Williams was approached by then Comcast Cable Vice-President Troy Fitzhugh about starting up a local Spanish language show that would bring news and information to the local Latino community. The program’s original run lasted from 1991 to 1992 but returned in 2001 and has continued to run for the last 19 years.
The show’s goals and topics range from health, fire prevention, law enforcement, education, immigration, among other subjects. The show has had various organizations such as the Social Security Administration, the American Red Cross, The Life With Cancer Family Center and several others come on and give information that is vital to the Latino community.
According to Williams, this helps with the assimilation process of newly arrived immigrants by giving them a way to learn about not just the local, state and federal laws but learning about community resources and activities.
The existence of such a show has proven vital to the growing Latino community and the community is indeed growing. According to the U.S Census, the total population of the Latino Community rose from 4.5% in 1990 to 20.3% in 2010 which would come to over 400,000 Latinos amongst the population of Prince William County. According to Data.com, that percentage has grown to 28% which has added another 100,000 Latinos to the county population.
Panorama Latino airs on Comcast Channel 2 Friday nights at 8:30 pm and can also be viewed on YouTube. Its latest episode will guest Prince William County Police Chief Barry Barnard and will air in September.
Recent Stories
(The Center Square) – Talk of relocating the FBI National Training Academy from Quantico to Alabama is causing an uproar among some Virginia lawmakers.
If you’re driving through Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, or along I-95 this week, expect delays due to overnight paving, bridge repairs, road closures, and resurfacing projects. Here’s a roundup of major traffic impacts you should know about:
A judge has temporarily halted timbering near Courthouse Road, where a developer plans to build a large data center. The emergency injunction comes after neighbors raised alarms and Stafford County filed a legal complaint alleging zoning violations and broken land-use promises.
John Williams is the soundtrack of my childhood. So when the Kennedy Center invited my wife and me to Notes and Frames, a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra celebrating classic film scores, I jumped at the chance.
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
