SO U T H W E ST O RA N G E
IN THIS ISSUE:
Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
FREE • THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2026
VOLUME 11, NO. 25
COMING SOON TO A THEATER NEAR YOU Horizon West Theater Co. has acquired a new facility that will be renovated and is expected to open this summer. PAGE 5A.
YOUR TOWN
Overcoming insecurities
HAMLIN CRAFT BEER FEST IS BREWING IN HORIZON WEST The third annual Hamlin Craft Beer Fest is coming back Saturday, March 28, in support of Legacy Events for Education. Taking place from 4 to 7 p.m. at 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden, the event will feature a variety of craft brewers, more than 70 types of beer, ciders and more from local, state and national companies. Food trucks also will be there. The 21-and-over event will include a Fun Zone offering beer pong, mini golf and cornhole. A DJ also will be present, providing music and fun to attendees. No children are allowed at the event, but four-legged friends are welcome. Tickets vary from $5 to $60. Visit bitly/4d95p4c to purchase your tickets. Legacy Events for Education provides scholarships and grants for arts, academics and athletics for high school students. Students also have the opportunity to earn volunteer hours. The nonprofit also hosts educational programs for students and their parents throughout West Orange County public high schools.
Photo by Leticia Silva
Elizabeta Makarenko is excited to fly to Los Angeles for the College Television Awards. Her short is a finalist for the Animation Series category.
Elizaveta Makarenko, creator of 3D animated short film “Beautify,” is heading to Los Angeles for the Television Academy Foundation’s 45th annual College Television Awards. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Courtesy Image
Vera’s beautified version corners her before trapping her in the phone.
PRIDE IN THE PRODUCTION More than 70 Castleview Elementary students worked together to produce an energetic performance of “Lion King Jr.” SEE PAGE 21A.
From pool to head of school Alex Birchenall’s initial dream to be a swim coach led to his teaching career. Now he’s the new head of school at Windermere Prep.
SEE PAGE 3A.