EVANSTON — A cold and snow-covered November Saturday appeared to get local folk into the Christmas spirit — at least judging by the number of people in attendance at Santa’s Workshop at Evanston’s Railyard Complex on Nov. 18. The workshop, a long-time local event hosted by Boy Scout Troop 911, featured numerous booths selling assorted goods filling both the Roundhouse and Machine Shop.

Parents and volunteers affiliated with the Scouting group worked the doors, and one of them, David Miller, said it was a very good turnout. “When it snows the day before or the morning of, it tends to be really busy,” said Miller. 

Shoppers could find home and holiday décor, handmade quilts and clothing, food items, toys, books, ceramics, jewelry and many other items for sale. Even Santa Claus himself was on hand for several hours to visit with children and pose for photos. 

Jennifer Richard, committee chair with the Pack 911 Cub Scouts, said the Workshop is the primary fundraiser for the 911 Scouts, which is the only community-based, non-denominational Scouting group in Evanston. 

Richard said she wanted to let the community know about some changes happening with the Scouts, notably that girls in kindergarten through fifth grade, ages 5-11, will be able to join the Cub Scouts starting in January. She said that older girls will be able to join the Boy Scouts the following year. 

Richard also said the Scouting group is looking for people, both adults and kids, to become involved with Troop 911. The Cub Scouts meet every other week on Tuesday and the Boy Scouts meet weekly on Monday, both at the Uinta County Search and Rescue Building. 

Scoutmaster Jeff Breininger said he was pleased with the number of people attending the workshop and was grateful to the community and the vendors for the ongoing support. 

Anyone with questions about the Cub Scouts Pack 911 or the Boy Scouts Troop 911 can call (801) 710-2712.