camshaft alignment

Yes, since you already had it running earlier you should run it again. Also can your scan tool do active tests? I want to know if you can active test the oil control valve. If you already replaced it then drive it to verify there are no timing codes set.

I ordered a new vvt timing solenoid. I'm fed up with wondering if it's bad or not.

Majority of the time it was. The new solenoid came with an upgraded gasket with a screen to filter the oil going in to the solenoid.

I'm changing the oil and filter before the new cam solenoid arrives. Should I pour some oil into the holes where the cam solenoid is mounted before I install the part? It seems to me that pre-loading with motor oil would offer immediate lubrication rather than have it moving dry until the oil is pumped up there.

There is no need to pour oil in. All the solenoid does is move the amount of oil flow to adjust the cam timing.