Topic Team Leader

Before coming to the Star Tribune in 2005, Shiffer worked at The News & Observer of Raleigh, N.C., where he was an editor and reporter. Shiffer is the author of "The King of Skid Row," a local history book. He lives in Minneapolis with his family.


E-mails, public records reveal what happened before Third Precinct was abandoned

Three days of rage culminated in the burning of the Third Precinct, an event unprecedented in modern American history.


Bookmark: An old book resonates in these modern times

In times like these, I find myself turning to literature to remind me that people haven’t changed that much in 300 years or so. In…


64 years later, neighbor of mystery girl in haunting photos introduces himself

The revival of Janet Lee Dahl's memory sparked a flurry of e-mails and phone calls. A former neighbor remembers her life and death.


Discarded photos reveal the haunting story of a Minnesota girl

More than 200 snapshots discovered in a California flea market trace the life of a Minnesota child.


On an accidental safari, a park in Uganda boasts a wealth of wildlife

During a surprise safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park offered up a host of sights.


Review: 'Dirty Doc Ames and the Scandal That Shook Minneapolis,' by Erik Rivenes

NONFICTION: Minneapolis Mayor "Doc" Ames was known for his visits to brothels, rigged poker games, and free-flowing booze.


UFOs and aliens thrive in the vacuum created by secrecy

Lack of government transparency plays a big role in propagating wild theories of alien landings and coverups.


Sexual harassment shielded by secrecy at Minnesota Capitol

The sexual harassment scandal has brought new attention to the different disclosure practices that apply to Minnesota institutions.


Minneapolis' posting of 'deleted' EPA pages is a bit overheated

One problem: The web pages in question are still on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's website. You can find them linked from the EPA home page.


Mille Lacs County sues feds to get FOIA response

And since November 2016, county officials have been waiting.