From the Niagara Falls Review:
Perhaps the truest and best example of family can be found at the Ricci home in the city’s south end. Michael and Olga Ricci and their five children dreamed together, worked together, lived together and achieved together.
The late Michael, known as Mac, and his wife Olga were pioneers in the Fallsview tourist area. Buchanan Avenue was a dirt road when Mac saw the spot he wanted for his hotel. The site, overlooking the falls, was a field. For 51 years, the Riccis welcomed the world at their ever-growing hotel, the Oakes Inn.
“It all began with $500 and a dream” said Michael Jr. “Dad borrowed $500 from Grandma and talked the banks into the rest.”