UW Extension announces summer classes line up

The University of Wyoming Extension is offering a wide range of educational opportunities this summer, giving residents the chance to learn new skills in art & well-being, and healthy cooking.

A popular opportunity returning to Big Horn County this summer is Art for Better Living, which is filling quickly. This six-class watercolor series will take place at the North Big Horn Senior Citizens Center in Lovell and runs from June 29 through August 10. Taught by local artist Julie Werbelow, the class is designed specifically for beginners and combines creative expression with mental wellness practices. Each session includes a brief introduction to breathing techniques, a short lesson on mental well-being, and approximately 90 minutes of guided watercolor instruction. The program is offered free of charge thanks to funding from the John P. Ellbogen Foundation, making it accessible to anyone interested in exploring art while improving overall well-being.

In addition to art classes, Extension educators are partnering with local BOCES programs to expand Centi$ible Nutrition cooking classes in the county. Traditionally reserved for individuals qualifying for SNAP benefits, Big Horn County has been selected as a pilot location for a collaborative effort between Centi$ible Nutrition and Community Vitality and Health educators. The goal is to make the program available to all residents, regardless of income, in response to strong local demand.

This eight-class cooking series begins on July 23 and runs through September 10, with classes scheduled at two sites:

Lovell: Big Horn Federal Savings Bank from 2–3:30 p.m.

Greybull: High school home economics room from 5:30–7 p.m.

Participants will learn practical skills such as meal planning, budgeting, and preparing nutritious meals at home. Space is limited, and the cost is $10, with scholarships available to ensure broad participation. An additional evening class in Lovell is being planned for this fall to accommodate increased interest.

To sign up for the cooking series, interested individuals should call (307) 548-4160.

Rounding out the summer lineup is Cooking with Merlaine, a two-class series of community cooking classes hosted in Burlington. These sessions will take place on July 13 and August 12 from 7–9 p.m. The classes are offered free of charge, with Merlaine Cook generously donating both the food and venue. As with other programs, space is limited, and early sign-up is encouraged.

To stay up to date on the latest class offerings by UW Extension educator Melissa Cook and to participate in her 2026 needs assessment, join her monthly newsletter, Bighorn Thrives. Join by calling (307) 568-4160 or by emailing Melissa at mcook12@uwyo.edu.