An Espanola business owner could be sporting a new look for the new year, thanks to a unique challenge to support the Espanola Lions Christmas Toy Drive in memory of Agnes Michon, Ms Claus (who repaired, bought and donated many toys for the drive for several decades).
Dan Vanier, the owner of Espanola’s Giant Tiger is a big supporter of the toy drive, and this year, he has challenged his staff to collect $10,000 in toys from the public and in turn, he will shave off his beard.
Likened to ZZ Top, Vanier has never been seen without a beard in the last two decades, so for his family and staff, this is a big deal, and it is all to help the kids in the Espanola and North Shore Corridor have a merry Christmas.
The public is invited to help the staff reach their goal, so for 2026, Vanier will sport a clean-shave face … for a few days anyway!
The toys will be delivered to families on Saturday, December 20th in partnership with the Espanola Elks – 99.4 FM Moose Hamper Fund.
