Looks like la-imc is in direct violation of its own privacy policy.
http://la.indymedia.org/process/privacy.php "The LA-IMC web server does not track the domains or IP addresses from which people visit and/or post to the sf.indymedia.org web site. Usage of other services, however, may be logged."
[...]
"At no time, unless a user specifically authorizes such disclosure, will the LA-IMC disclose individual user personal information that is not publicly available to unrelated third parties."
"In the event that the LA IMC becomes aware that site security is compromised or nonpublic user information has been disclosed to unrelated third parties as a result of external activity, including but not limited to law enforcement activities or external security attacks, the LA IMC shall take reasonable measures which it deems appropriate, including internal investigation and, if required, cooperation with our web host, Transbay.Net.
If the LA IMC becomes aware that a user's personal information provided to the LA IMC has been disclosed in a manner not permitted by this Privacy Policy, the LA IMC shall make reasonable efforts to notify the affected user, as soon as reasonably possible, of what information has been disclosed, to the extent that the LA IMC knows this information."
I consider my IP address to be personal information.
Now, la-imc, you need to either remove your little "yellow star" feature, or change your privacy policy to reflect the feature.
But I'm guessing you'll do neither.
Man, you people are so afraid of differing viewpoints, aren't you?
Cowards.