Little Italy, AR - St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church parishioners celebrated their 90th year since their founding as an official parish in 1922 during the first weekend of October 5-7, 2012. Hundreds of relatives of the original Northern Italian settlers gathered Friday evening for a Homecoming lovingly planned and given by the parishioners of St. Francis Catholic Church. The evening began with a brief prayer service led by Pastor Fr. Richard Davis with welcoming remarks delivered by Vince Chairo, descendant, and Chris Dorer who spearheaded the event. A wine, cheese, and dessert reception followed in the parish hall. In addition, the annual Spaghetti Dinner was celebrated on Sunday the 7th, which is an effective fundraiser for the parish. Hundreds (if not in the thousands!) were in attendance from all over the state in this much anticipated event complete with homemade spaghetti sauce, sausage, insalata, and from-scratch desserts. Keep your calendar clear for the first Sundays in October!