On November 29, the Vallejo community gathered at the Grind Café to celebrate local author and Hogan High School graduate Chris Navalta. He hosted a book signing and question-and-answer session for his new children’s book, *Basketball Stars: Stories and Skills from the NBA’s and WNBA’s Best Players*. The book seeks to inspire young athletes by blending biographies of renowned players, such as Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan, with illustrations and step-by-step instructions on their signature basketball moves.
Navalta was joined by friends and former teammates, including Marco McLeod, co-owner of the Grind Café, and Bob Mansfield, his former coach at Hogan High who now serves as a Coach to Player Operator at Levi’s Stadium. The event drew attention to Navalta’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of basketball players through engaging educational content.
Wreaths Across America Ceremony Honors Veterans
On December 13, the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony took place at the Mare Island Naval Cemetery. The event featured the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets Rear Admiral O’Kane Division Color Guard, who presented the colors as local volunteers recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Participants included members of the Men of Gilead and the Widows and Sons Masonic Riders Association of California, who assisted in placing wreaths on over 1,000 gravestones.
Additionally, the Vallejo Navy League organized the “Wreaths Across Vallejo” initiative, which involved placing wreaths at various memorials around the city, including the Warriors’ Memorial and the Police & Fire Memorial near City Hall. The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Phi Zeta chapter from Oakland/Berkeley also participated by placing wreaths at the Port Chicago Memorial, honoring the sacrifices of veterans in the community.
Vacaville Museum Guild Launches Dessert Contest
In a sweet initiative, the Vacaville Museum Guild has kicked off its annual Dessert-of-the-Month Contest. Participants have the chance to win a monthly delivery of delectable desserts throughout 2026. According to Pat Zetah, president of the Guild, the desserts are prepared with care by dedicated members known for their exceptional baking skills.
Tickets for the contest are available at the museum for $10 each or three for $20. Proceeds from the contest will support various projects at the Vacaville Museum, promoting local history and culture. The drawing will take place on January 10.
Napa Native Serves on U.S. Navy’s Largest Aircraft Carrier
In another highlight, Lt. Alora Horne, a native of Napa, is making waves aboard the USS George H.W. Bush, one of the largest U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Horne, a graduate of St. Helena High School and Brigham Young University-Hawaii, brings valuable skills from her upbringing in Napa, including time management and the importance of community service.
Having joined the Navy six years ago, Horne currently serves as the stock control officer, overseeing essential operations on the carrier. She reflects on her experiences, highlighting that effective communication is crucial in her role, emphasizing the significance of interpersonal skills learned in her hometown.
These local events and achievements showcase the vibrant community spirit in Vallejo and surrounding areas, highlighting the dedication of individuals committed to service, education, and remembrance.
