On Aug. 1, 1983, University of Colorado journalism student Sid Wells was shot execution-style in the back of his head in a condo in Boulder. He was ready to start his senior year and was dating the daughter of the late actor and director Robert Redford. Years later, I interviewed Sid’s mother, June Menger, who has since died.

Although June was close to Redford’s daughter Shauna, June told me she felt as though her son’s case had been “overshadowed by the Redford connection.” Then she added, “I finally realized that I need the Redford connection to keep the case open.”

The case is still open, and an arrest warrant is still active for Sid’s roommate, Thayne Smika. Sid was born in Norton, Kansas, and was the youngest of three boys. His childhood photos show him as a happy, busy and outgoing kid, with lots of friends. The family moved to Longmont, Colorado, where Sid graduated from high school in 1979. Then he entered CU, in Boulder.

His father, Dick Wells, had been in the Navy, and Sid was raised with an appreciation for the military. In Sid’s freshman year, he joined the Navy’s Reserve Officer Training Corps. He needed a date for the Navy ROTC dance and invited a girl from his dorm, not knowing, at the time, that Shauna was the daughter of actor Robert Redford.

 

Sid and Shauna continued their relationship throughout their sophomore and junior years. This chapter of Sid’s life was a whirlwind of activity, with his studies interspersed with trips with the Redford family, including horseback riding at the then-newly opened Sundance Institute in Utah.

Robert Redford even flew Sid to New York to meet television journalist Tom Brokaw, who planned to hire him as an intern.

June described Sid’s college years as “glamorous.” Then came the unthinkable, when Sid’s brother Sam found Sid’s body in the apartment he shared with roommate Thayne Smika.

Seeking Justice For Sid

“Shauna came and crawled in bed with me and we cried together,” June recalled. Shauna later married and had a family of her own, but the women kept in close contact. June said she would always think of Shauna as her daughter-in-law.

The Boulder Police Department arrested Thayne Smika for Sid’s murder on Oct. 6, 1983. On Oct. 24, the case went to a grand jury. A week later, June watched helplessly when former District Attorney Alex Hunter declined to charge Smika, stating there was not enough evidence. After that, Smika was set free and disappeared.

In 2011, with new evidence that centered on the testing of shotgun pellets recovered from Sid’s body, then-newly elected District Attorney Stan Garnett issued a new warrant for Smika’s arrest. Even so, the alleged murderer is still at large.

 

Sid was never forgotten as June’s life, inevitably, moved on. Her marriage in 1984 to Jim Menger was followed by the welcome birth of her first grandchild.

June found strength through the Parents of Murdered Children organization, educated herself on the legal process of a murder investigation and went to the state legislature, where she won a battle for victims’ rights. She then became an active member of the Families of Homicide Victims and Missing Persons organization (FOHVAMP) and completed a term as a family member on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s Cold Case Task Force.

When interviewed in 2012, June stated, “I’ve moved beyond the grieving stage, but the pain is always there. Most of all I miss Sid’s presence — just having him around. I’ve never given up. How can I? I need justice for Sid.”

Tribe Recovery Homes, a Denver-based drug addiction treatment and sober living provider, has closed its residential program in Boulder, citing a recent loss in federal funding. It becomes the latest nonprofit in the city to shut down amid funding challenges.

The organization ran an 11-bed residential program on Pearl Street where people recovering from drug addiction could stay for a month or more. Residents had access to peer support and treatment, including therapy and medication to curb cravings.

The home was a core part of the city and county’s strategy to address methamphetamine addiction and substance use, particularly among homeless and formerly incarcerated people. Its closure follows the shutdown of Boulder’s only homeless youth shelter and a residential treatment home for young people.

The City of Boulder plans to bring in a new operator to provide similar services at the Pearl Street site, but that transition will take at least two months, according to Kurt Firnhaber, the city’s director of Housing and Human Services.

“We’re in a difficult environment right now with state and federal funding challenges,” Firnhaber told Boulder Reporting Lab. “The city isn’t able to and doesn’t have the resources to backstop some of the challenges.”

Tribe first opened the Boulder facility in 2023 with a $900,000 U.S. Department of Justice grant, leasing the building from the city essentially free of charge. The program was overseen by both the city and county. But when start-up federal funding ended, both the city and county declined to provide ongoing funding.

The county has since transferred oversight of the site to the city, which will continue leasing the property to the next vendor for $1 per year, according to Firnhaber. Instead of receiving grant funding, the future operator would be expected to bill Medicaid and other insurance providers for services.

The city recently issued a request for proposals to select another provider to operate a similar program out of the same building.

Thomas Hernandez, the founder of Tribe, said one reason the organization chose not to apply to be the next operator was partially because the city wants to place a greater emphasis on serving homeless people, while Tribe primarily serves formerly incarcerated people.

“We weren’t aligning in mission statements,” he told Boulder Reporting Lab.

Hernandez said the organization ran out of its federal grant in April and expected more challenges securing federal funding under the Trump administration.

“It’s rough when you lose funding,” he said. “You have all your staff paid for, and then you’ve got to pick up that bill.”

He said the organization had been scaling back operations ahead of the closure. Two people still living at the facility were moved to Tribe’s homes in Denver, and the group plans to continue outreach work in Boulder.

The city’s request for proposals closed Sept. 19, with a new operator expected to be selected by early October.

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is often hailed as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a rich, fulfilling lifestyle closely connected to nature. From breathtaking mountain vistas to charming small towns, this state embodies an aspirational lifestyle that many dream of—one that celebrates adventure, health, and community.

The Allure of the Great Outdoors

Colorado's stunning landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Home to 58 majestic peaks over 14,000 feet, known as "fourteeners," the mountains attract climbers, hikers, and nature lovers year-round. Renowned locations like Maroon Bells and Pikes Peak showcase Colorado's natural beauty and offer ample trails for every skill level.

Hiking and Climbing

The hiking season boasts an impressive array of options. Popular trails like the Flatirons in Boulder and the Hanging Lake Trail near Glenwood Springs cater to both seasoned hikers and beginners. For those ready to conquer the mountains, climbing lessons are readily available, with expert guides ensuring safety while teaching essential skills.

Skiing and Snowboarding

When winter blankets the state, Colorado transforms into a snowy playground. World-class ski resorts such as Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge entice thrill-seekers with pristine slopes. Techniques for skiing or snowboarding can be mastered through lessons, and families can partake in activities like snowshoeing or snowmobiling, ensuring that all stay active during the colder months.

Health and Wellness in the Mountains

Living the Colorado dream is also synonymous with embracing a holistic approach to health. The state's residents prioritize physical fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, creating a vibrant, health-conscious community.

Active Lifestyle

Engaging with nature through outdoor activities fosters a healthier lifestyle. Many Coloradans partake in running clubs, yoga classes, or even mountain biking groups. The state's diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop to these activities, enhancing the overall experience and community connection.

Organic Living

The trend toward organic living flourishes in Colorado, with farmers' markets and health food stores popping up in every town. Residents place a high value on locally sourced and organic foods, promoting sustainability and supporting local agriculture. This dedication to fresh produce enhances not only personal health but also strengthens community bonds.

Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Colorado's culture is as colorful as its landscapes. The arts scene thrives, presenting numerous galleries, festivals, and live performances that reflect the region's diverse heritage.

Local Artisans

From Native American crafts to contemporary works, local artisans express Colorado's culture through various mediums. Art shows and festivals like the Cherry Creek Arts Festival showcase the talent of local artists, inviting visitors to appreciate the creative spirit of the community.

Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, an array of festivals celebrates the state’s culture and traditions. The Telluride Film Festival and the Aspen Music Festival draw international attention, while local events like the Colorado State Fair allow residents to celebrate community values. Such gatherings foster connections and encourage participation in the local scene.

The Community Spirit

A defining characteristic of life in Colorado is the strong sense of community. Residents find camaraderie through shared interests, whether it be outdoor adventures, arts, or community service.

Outdoor Clubs and Groups

From hiking clubs to conservation organizations, there are numerous ways to engage with like-minded individuals. Organizations like the Colorado Mountain Club and local Sierra Club chapters promote outdoor activities and environmental stewardship, bringing individuals together for both fun and purpose.

Volunteering Opportunities

Coloradans deeply value giving back. Numerous nonprofit organizations focus on environmental conservation, education, and health services. Many residents find fulfillment in volunteering, which strengthens community ties and promotes a shared vision for a sustainable future.

Education and Family Life

For those looking to settle down, Colorado offers robust educational options and family-friendly communities.

Exceptional Schools

The state is home to notable school districts, renowned for their commitment to academic excellence and holistic education. Many communities prioritize educational resources, from arts programs to STEM initiatives, ensuring children receive a well-rounded education.

Family Activities

Family life blossoms in Colorado, with a plethora of activities suitable for all ages. From interactive museums in Denver to nature explorations in Rocky Mountain National Park, families enjoy diverse experiences that can enrich their lives. Seasonal events, like pumpkin patches in the fall and summer fairs, provide additional opportunities for family bonding.

Sustainable Living

Coloradans are keen advocates for sustainability and environmental responsibility, integrating these practices into daily life.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Outdoor enthusiasts often engage in eco-conscious practices, such as Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that natural areas are preserved for future generations. Many communities emphasize recycling programs and green building initiatives, showcasing Colorado's commitment to protecting its pristine environments.

Renewable Energy

The state is a leader in renewable energy, with initiatives promoting solar, wind, and water energy. Residents increasingly adopt solar panels and energy-efficient devices, working toward a sustainable future that aligns with Colorado’s natural beauty and ecological aspirations.

Changing Seasons and Lifestyle

Each of Colorado’s four seasons offers unique opportunities to experience the mountain lifestyle.

Spring and Summer

Spring unveils colorful wildflowers, while summer presents a chance for hiking, biking, and rafting in crystal-clear rivers. This season is ideal for families to explore local parks and participate in outdoor festivals celebrating the warmer months.

Fall and Winter

As autumn sets in, the landscape transforms, allowing for beautiful drives along roadways lined with golden aspens. Winter invites residents to embrace winter sports, cozy community gatherings, and festive holiday celebrations, cultivating a strong sense of belonging.

The Colorado dream encompasses a harmonious existence with nature, a vibrant community spirit, and an active, health-oriented lifestyle. As individuals and families discover the joys of mountain living, they become part of a larger narrative—a commitment to sustainability, adventure, and love for the great outdoors.

Living in Colorado means not only embracing the breathtaking surroundings but also cherishing the rich tapestry of community and culture that defines this extraordinary state.