Empowering Women and Celebrating Community: Vallejo's Vibrant TapestryVallejo, a city rich in diversity and community spirit, has been the backdrop for a series of inspiring events that have touched the lives of its residents. From a successful fundraiser for underprivileged women and girls to a celebration of a beloved civic leader, these stories showcase the resilience and dedication of the Vallejo community.

Uplifting Women, Empowering Futures

Soroptimist International of Vallejo Hosts Successful Fundraiser

Soroptimist International of Vallejo (SIVallejo) recently held a captivating "A Tour of Italy Winemakers Dinner & Auction" at the renowned Caymus-Suisun Winery. This event, which took place on September 7th, was a resounding success, raising funds to support SIVallejo's mission of providing underprivileged women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment.Through their scholarship programs, SIVallejo is making a tangible difference in the lives of those who might otherwise face significant barriers to personal and professional growth. By investing in the education and development of these women and girls, the organization is not only transforming individual lives but also strengthening the fabric of the Vallejo community as a whole.

Celebrating a Life of Service and Positivity

On September 8th, the Vallejo community gathered to celebrate the life of Dennis "Den" Kittelson, a beloved civic leader and volunteer. The celebration, held at Suite Treatments in Vallejo, was a testament to the profound impact Kittelson had on the city and its residents.Speakers at the event praised Kittelson's unwavering passion, infectious positivity, and tireless dedication to serving the community through his involvement in various civic and non-profit organizations. Kittelson's legacy of improving the quality of life for everyone in Vallejo will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the city's future endeavors.

Honoring 75 Years of Service: NARFE Chapter 16 of Vallejo

The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) Chapter 16 of Vallejo is celebrating a remarkable milestone – its 75th Anniversary. This dedicated organization has been steadfast in its mission to improve the general welfare of all federal workers and retirees, making a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.The chapter's leadership, including President Karen Anne McCann, Second Vice President and Alzheimer's Chair James Porter, Sunshine Chair Connie Boucher, Secretary/Treasurer Melanie McCrossin, Hospitality Chair Monte Simmons, and Legislative Chair Helen Zajac, have been instrumental in maintaining the chapter's commitment to its members and the broader Vallejo community.

Celebrating Vallejo's Rich History at the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation's Founders Day Festival

On September 15th, the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation (MIHPF) hosted its annual Founders Day Festival at the Admiral's Mansion Gardens, drawing over 500 visitors. This event was a celebration of Vallejo's rich history, showcasing the city's deep-rooted connections to the former naval base and its enduring legacy.The festival featured a lineup of dedicated volunteers and leaders, including CeeCee Weaver, Ciri Malamud, Jim Reikowsky, Cave Campion, Kent Fortner (President), Dennis Kelly (Vice President), and Sandy Buchwald. These individuals have been instrumental in preserving and sharing the stories of Mare Island, ensuring that Vallejo's past remains an integral part of its present and future.

Blind Seniors Enjoy a Delightful Outing at Brazelton Ranch

In a heartwarming display of community outreach, a group of 21 clients, volunteers, and staff from the Pittsburg-based Lions Center for the Visually Impaired (LCVI) visited the historic Brazelton Ranch fruit stand in Vacaville. The seniors were greeted by host William Brazelton, who shared the farm's rich history and insights into the fruit-growing business.The inquisitive seniors engaged in a lively dialogue, and one client, Mac Coates, even treated the group to an acapella rendition of the Carpenter's "Sing A Song" as a gesture of appreciation. The group then joined the line of customers to purchase fresh, juicy peaches, nectarines, pluots, and other stone fruits from the roadside stand.The LCVI Activities Coordinator, Richard Grange, praised the exceptional quality of the Brazelton's produce, describing it as "the absolute best" – juicier, sweeter, and riper than anything they had tasted before. The seniors then continued their outing with a special lunch, including ice cream sundaes, at Fenton's Creamery and Restaurant in Vacaville, before exploring the nearby Nut Tree Plaza and other local attractions.

Vacaville Native Serves the U.S. Navy with Distinction

Petty Officer 1st Class Jorge Rivera, a native of Vacaville, California, is proudly serving in the U.S. Navy, assigned to the Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC) in San Diego. Rivera, who graduated from Vanden High School in 2014, joined the Navy nine years ago, driven by a desire to explore the world beyond his hometown.As a machinist's mate, Rivera has honed his skills and embraced the values that have enabled him to thrive in the Navy. He credits his upbringing in Vacaville for instilling in him the importance of lifelong learning, humility, and an open-minded approach to personal growth.Rivera's service to the Navy is a testament to the prosperity and security that the U.S. Navy helps to maintain, as it operates globally, promoting the nation's interests. Rivera takes immense pride in his role, stating that "serving the Navy has always been an honor" and that it means "being part of something bigger and having a significant impact in the world."