While AKMuckraker Sleeps..
Hi, it’s Snoskred here. I am hoping AKMuckraker is fast asleep but I don’t know.. would you be able to sleep after a day like this? 
I’m giving you a blank thread for comments as the other one is loading very slowly with over 600 comments on it now.
Also, we have a couple of threads on the forums which you might want to check in on -
Rep Mike Doogan Outs AKM – Updates, Links, Contact Info..
In the second thread there are a lot of links to blog posts, one news article (but wait until they get a hold of the story!) and also contact info for Rep Doogan that Charcoal Sniper P and I have been collecting, plus links posted by forum members in the first thread.
Whether or not people support AKMuckrakers opinions, I believe most people would support AKM’s right to remain anonymous. I feel it is a right that everyone on the internet is entitled to – people make the decision for their own reasons, some because they have been cyber stalked in the past, some to prevent being cyber-stalked in the future.
This may be the first known case of an anonymous blogger being cyber-stalked by an elected official determined to find out their real identity and out them, though!
You can email messages of support to AKMuckraker at akmuckraker(at)yahoo(dot)com – be aware that a lot of people are doing so at the moment so you may not get a reply.
If you see an inappropriate or trollish comment on the blog, please email me at unlocktroll@gmail.com with the name of the poster, I’ll try to fix it while AKMuckraker is in the land of Nod.
Snoskred – On Behalf Of The Mudflats Forum Team.
Sleep well AKM – ! You are dear to us!
Thank you snoksred for all the information and the blank thread. I hope that AKM can rest and rest assured we that do not live in Alaska will do what we can to help. The response to this travesty in these comments is truly eye opening. You are right snoksred even the other bloggers of the other side have came to offer their thoughts and do not agree with this criminal act.
Thanks snoksred for the info….
Just made a small donation to help.
I am disgusted by this action…more so that it is not some kid having fun, but a rep who is suppossed to have some kind of ethics..ha
know ak that you have the support, prayers and much positive energy from all of us
hey Snossy, what a day, eh? Whoever thought this would happen?
But now that everyone is safely tucked up in bed, I’m going to re-post a comment from a previous thread. Anyone who remembers Bea’s comments will know that she is a smart, wise and articulate Alaskan, and a good typist – which goes to show she was fit to be tied when she posted this:
Bea (14:59:17) :
Just called Dooganâ??s office and was told by the twit that answered the phone that it was
Dogganâ??s â??First Amendmentâ?? right to out ALM.
It took everything in me not to SCREAM at the little twit.
Call Dooganâ??s office yourself here:
907-465-4998
P.S. Note the perfection that is his state website:
http://www.house.legis.state.ak.us/doo.php
This shocked me so profoundly that I don’t have words to say how, but I think it’s too important to overlook.
Hi Snoskred. I guess you were right! She is a she. My inner AKM voice has stopped being a male anyway, so I’m adjusting.
Thanks also for the reminder to donate. On my “to do” list for far too long.
also donated a little, hope it helps
thank you snoskred. I’ve been here since the beginning and I’m not leaving.
Dear AKM,
Thank you for all you do, you are an inspiration to so many. My heart goes out to you but I truly believe you will come out of this stronger. Knowing you, you will make some darned good lemonade out of this big ole sour lemon Doogan handed you. Bless you and remember you have love and support from around the world. You are an amazing person. – Rainie
P.S. Thank you Snoskred and all who are helping (o:
me niether.
me neither.
I e-mailed he-who-shall-not-be-named-because it-makes-me-snicker, which no doubt will be deleted. As Mr. Poe asserts, the Internet has profoundly changed the way people interact with each other. I know my local paper won’t print anonymous opinion letters to the editor, but one’s bolog is one’s own newspaper, and one can set the rules. I think hwsnbnbimms will probably never see the error of his ways, but what I have learned about Alaska is that it is a very small state where very strange things happen. Let’s hope nothing bad happens to AKM, who has done more for Alaska than hwsnbnbimms ever will.
So Charlie has gone?
My donation will be forthcoming next week (payday) and please use it as you will…..
NO . Never . I was busy for a moment.
http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/2009/03/shannyn-moore-was-keiths-guest-on.html
Thanks Snoskred.
We are all just sick about this.
There is a huge distenction between a Public figure, especially one who is publically elected and on the public dole, who is supposedly working for the public good – and a private citizen speaking truth to power.
good morning everyone,old habits die hard.this is what i’ve done for months and i will not stop.AKM have a good rest,i have a feeling everyone will be here when you come back.tami
I am absolutely shocked at how juvenile the elected officials seem to be in Alaska. I think Alaska is long overdue for politicians who at least act like the grownups they are. I thank you for your blog. It is informative and believe me from Sarah and her babbling to the rest of the bunch at least you can rest assured that you are smart, educated and making a difference which is more than I can say for you elected officials. They ought to be ashamed of themselves!
They do know that they are out of high school right?
Don’t worry a lot of us who don’t live in Alaska will be donating money. I guess it is because we just aren’t “real” Americans.
HE misunderstood when I said Alaska , he heard Arizona. He was looking for a certain state rep.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/28/bobcat-walks-into-arizona_n_180302.html
CityKid, your blog entry about the Chevron tanks:
http://www.ptarmigannest.net/?p=1324
I see AKM is one of your correspondents.
Lost my job in Jan. I can only hope what little I have sent, will help the cause.
AKM for Governor!
I really think that we had a poster who works for the president on the OUT thread – this is very exciting! So think about that AKM – you have the ears and eyes of people working for our awesome President, and probably the First Lady herself, here at Mudflats!
Also, too – with the loyalty which has developed here toward you – just let Sarah the witch try ANYTHING and she will be crushed like a bug. I know she’s not the only one – her sewer rats need to be squashed, too. We’re working on that one. They have gone way over the top with their abuse and all journalists might as well thank those little poison-filled creeps for adding to the demise of the newspaper. Alaskan papers on-line are completely overrun with their hate and insanity, and they have spread their putrefied infection to any media that runs a Palin piece. All you need to know about Palin (if you don’t know her personally and I don’t recommend that) is found in her supporters.
Back to the President and his family – YES YOU CAN AND YES YOU WILL! And so will we. It’s a different day in Alaska, and thank god for that! Bright light is spreading to all of the dark corners here thanks to your blog and the power of your pen to whip everyday people into action. Like ME! I’ve stirred up more crap than I even like to think about sometimes thanks to you! I’m sure somewhere deep down, my adoring husband forgives the ‘Flats for stealing his bride. He’s just happy that I have found my voice and have been called into ACTION! Go AKM! No, I mean STAY AKM (to steal from womanwithsardinecan).
You are doing the work of an earth angel and we rally to your good work. Through our association and our actions, we are earth type angels too! Even my DOGS love you and they don’t just love anybody. They did vote for Barack Obama, or tried to! They knew right from the beginning that our President was a friend to all creatures great and small. I hope you found a really smooth and lovely tasting wine to toast to a changed world – one that you have changed in a very significant way, just like our Prez has.
Our dearest AKM’s outing by Doogan has reached the recommened list on The Daily Kos site. Doogan is really going to suffer over this. Go to the link and read the comments. He is toast, stick a fork in him.
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/3/27/713917/-AK-state-rep-Doogan-outs-Mudflats!
I’m not leaving either.I hope that rep. doogan is up for re election he will not mind getting some of my free speech.
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
That is the first amendment to the Constitution. Nope, don’t see any rights to out someone that wants to remain anonymous.
But doesn’t rep doogan understand that the constitution works both ways?
No, don’t see any place that you have to sign your name, when you write, speaking your mind.
This is pure intimidation. 2 liberal bloggers, one outed and one threatened by stalkers.
Gov. Plain seems to have up the ante. Or is the fact that fox News is in town relevant? Diane Patyjewicz
Snoskred, you rock
AKM, again, you know that you have many, many people backing you in word and spirit and beyond. You are loved, admired and appreciated, and for very good reasons. I hope that Doogan and others of his ilk understand the extent of the support you have.
As my Granny use to tell me “it is always darkest before dawn!” I’m having a challenge right now, b/c I want to get up and go stomp on something, anything, really, but I also know that to really be a supporter of AKM (she will remain an anon blogger to me, until she/he tells me otherwise) it is best to wait until we know what would AKM wants to do. Going off in the wrong direction is of no real use to AKM or Mudflats, so I’m going to stop, watch and read (the old stop, drop and roll, technique of putting out a fire) so AKM as some space to figure out where to go next.
Thanks, Snoskred for giving us the space and AKM the to time to sleep and reflect on where and what to do….
As with the villages in their time of crisis, AKM knows what is needed here and will I’m sure let us know what would be of most use, my pj’s are pressed and my key board is fired up, so just print the word AKM, and I’m sure thousands of anon bloggers will join Brian, sending out the loudest Moose call the northland has ever heard.
Now that I have read most of the 600+ comments on the “outing” thread, I am even more gratified and proud to be a part of this community of thoughtful, smart, and articulate readers. I can’t express myself as well as many on this blog, but I still feel compelled to vent.
This isn’t only about Alaska politics. Having seen a n’er do well such as GWB get selected for public office (and look how well that has turned out…) has encouraged the power hungry desires of those even LESS qualified. That scares me. We can’t look to the “establishment” in politics or in the MSM to shine any light on truth. It’s become a 24-hour infotainment circus out there. The good guys are outgunned in many cases. That’s why we look to people like AKM to let us know what is really going on.
Palin and Doogan (among many others) are proof that dishonest and dishonorable behavior is not limited by political or religious affiliation. We came to this blog for various reasons, but have become loyal readers due to its integrity. This blog is making them nervous. Didn’t the Wicked Witch of the West get defeated when Dorothy hit her with a bucket of water? Well, we’ve got our own Wicked Witch of the West – and she needs a baptism. Let the cleansing by the water of truth and light continue!
smooches UK lady thank you for the link. Do you remember when AKM had the post on the lynx she caught on camera and all the info, about it avoids humans, now you see the bobcat really doesn’t give a rats butt. I do hope that he/she was not rabid.
AKM you hang in there. I’m not going anywhere either. Tell those twits to bring it on. Doogan should be doing his own job instead of trying to identify all the bloggers. What a #1 twit.
I wish I could stay connected all day as my fellow pups rise, but this soccer mom has a game.
Til later mud pups!
Thanks Snoskred for the e-mail update. It’s been awhile since I’ve posted here.
AKM, I am back to show my full support for you, the same way you’ve been a vital support to many of us in the Lower 48 since that very day SP was named as a VP candidate. You literaly kept many of us SANE and Informed, and for that I’m truly grateful.
I think it’s truly outrageous that this Doogan jerk felt the need to out you. I hope you pursue any legal options you may have to nail this bastard to the wall. I’ll be happy to contribute to legal funds.
Keep up the good fight and don’t back down!
I haven’t commented in a while, but am a faithful Mudflats reader. Thanks AKM for this wonderful blog site. Thanks to Snoskred for the email alerting me about this.
I wonder what this guy thought the consequences would be. What an idiotic jerk.
Sending my contribution to Mudflats in a bit — and also my protest emails
doogan has it on the government website
http://www.akdemocrats.org/doogan/032709_2_doogan_in_juneau.htm
Chiming in from western NY.. We certainly have our share of knucklehead State politicians, but this Doogan seems like a real piece of work! The one issue that stuck me, aside from the much larger privacy/stalking issue, is Doogan’s apparent sense of perspective. It looks like you’ve got a lot going on in Alaska, but he feels his time is better spent trying to ferret out a blogger’s name? WTF, are you kidding me?!
Anyway, got get ‘em, AKM, you and your Team are performing a great service.
Many lovely words have been put down here extolling the countless virtues of our beloved AKM. The truth about Doogan is this :
http://dictionary.die.net/snitch
A tip of the hat to MudFlats from Texas. And for Mr Doogan, thanks for continuing to take the heat off of Texas, its insane politics, and more insane politicians.
Rest assured, Mr Doogan’s Democratic Primary Opponents will be getting funding from down here as well. My first reaction was hoping that AKM would run, but after my morning coffee, and with a clearer head, I hope that she stays away from that cesspool at the Capitol.
U.S. Senator D-AK 2010, maybe?
oops sorry it’s the akdemocrats web site
http://www.akdemocrats.org/doogan/032709_2_doogan_in_juneau.htm
You probably already know what I think, but what if I say it doesn’t matter what I think?
Political bloggers’ anonymity is protected by the First Amendment and has been re-affirmed time and time again by the US Supreme Court.
What the hell is Doogan playing at? This was an egregious tort – the damage is irreparable. I hope he’s got good insurance, because I reckon the nonpecuniary damages could exceed $1 million, especially taking into account Doogan’s motives for “outing” her, and the inherent potential for further harm.
Thanks Snoskred for all you do for us Mudpuppies– really appreciated your email, too! Sending you and AKM and my fellow puppies HUGE amounts of energy– this news is all over the blogosphere and is overwhelmingly supportive of AKM. Ah, Mikey, you really should have thought this impulsive repugant action through a little bit more…
Doogan’s obsession with revealing AKM’s identity reminds me that a few months back this blogger was obsessed with finding out the identity of Audrey from Palin Deceptions.
http://socraticgadfly.blogspot.com/2009/01/what-person-and-money-is-behind-palin.html
When asked what it was he hoped to achieve by doing so he became extremely defensive and snarky and has since attacked the PD blog as being cult-like.
And this guy calls himself a progressive……sheesh!
I’ve posted this before , but it must stay at the forefront. Please note the link to join the campaign on there.
http://thinkprogress.org/2009/03/27/ups-oreilly/
Dear AKMuckraker,
Mr. Doogan’s action was reprehensible. As a senior citizen I’ve seldom seen such an example of spite on the part of an elected official. I, for one, here in NY state, begin my email day by opening Mudflats to see if I have missed anything interesting overnight.. Your writing whether on politics, nature, or the environment, is extraordinarily fine work, a joy to read. Even though I consider myself well-read and fairly aware of what is going on in the world, I was certainly an ignoramous about Alaska until Mudflats appeared on my horizon.
I hope for your sake and indeed for Mr. Doogan’s sake as well, that you and your family don’t suffer in any way for his action. He has shafted himself with this outing. If I were an Alaskan I would never vote for Doogan again even though I am a Democrat.
AKMuckraker, please continue to write……….keep the candle of enlightenment bright for us.
P.S. I’d certainly miss the beautiful photos and updates on Brian if you quit.
My email to Doogan – if he deigns to reply I will let you all know -
What you did to AKM was beyond the pale, but I don’t think you are smart enough to realise it. Having read a lot of your replies to other people you are obviously someone who is not smart enough to know how much they don’t know. Wisecrack answers are not becoming in a public servant. Take a look at some of the comments on the Daily Kos, you know, that Democratic movement/funding site that is very influential.
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2009/3/27/713917/-AK-state-rep-Doogan-outs-Mudflats!
Yours,
Annette M Kenlay.
Well, it seems to me, AKM, that you have not LOST anything – but that actually you have many new opportunities now. SInce the whole world KNOWS who you are – well, shoot, you might as well just go ahead and run for office. You can have your pick – you wanna run against little DooDoo or the Bigger tur* who never goes to Juneau. I mean, whatever you do, you can do it from your home computer, charge the state for sitting in your jammies and shooting Brian (with your camera.) Just sayin’. Also. You have already proven you are smarted than they are – and more honorable – also – too – but then that did not take much. Sorry. You know you have tons of supporters. The rest of us will migrate up there, get registered, vote you in, and, well, come home for the winter. Sorry, that is the best I can do.
Can we start a Sack DooDoo along with the sacSarah org?
I can see the ads now… a pooper scooper, a sack, an Alaskan Huskey… well, you get the picture.
I’m back after a second bad night of sleeping on the couch (husband is getting a snoring problem) and dreaming of mudflats. My first waking thought as I staggered to the kitchen to make coffee is that if doogan was so obsessed about anonymity he could have started a personal crusade to get Alaska papers to require a real name and state of origin for every person leaving a comment, just like most papers require a real name for letters to the editor. Mudflats is a blog community of like-minded individuals who get to comment if they remain civil and don’t bring a spoon for the pot. Newspaper comment sections, and the comment sections of the big national blogs, are more like dogpiles, dogfights, etc., among very non-like-minded individuals, and they have all turned very nasty, especially when Team Sarah shows up. People come here because they can get real news about what is going on in Alaskan politics, through the editorial perspective of one unique individual and know that they won’t be beaten to a pulp in the comments section. AKM has always reminded people to remain civil on this blog.
Mr doogan is obviously uncomfortable with people voicing their opinions anonymously, and instead of focusing on his old medium, the newspaper, he chose a personal vendetta against an anonymous blogger who took him to task for being extremely unprofessional. To me that removes what small credibility his argument may have had for some people, and puts his self-professed motives into complete doubt. His actions speak quite clearly. He did not do this for “the good of Alaska” or to expose “hooded attackers in the shadows.” He did it because he was pissed off at being called out for his incredibly unprofessional, obnoxious behavior concerning the emails he received.
I too have an anonymous blog, though not a political one, and my reasons for remaining anonymous are very important to me. If some person simply decided that my reasons for remaining anonymous on MY blog were unacceptable to him, and went about exposing my real name, I would probably kick him in the nuts at the very least.
I believe his behavior as a public official is unethical and may have broken some privacy laws. At the very least, he needs his nuts kicked right out of office in the next election, and even better, legal remedies need to be pursued.
Good morning from way down and over in Alabama. I thought of Mudflats all night. Thank you for the update and the privilege of continuing on the site to express our support and our concerns. My “I PLAY IN MUD” bumpersticker should arrive by Monday and now I will be even more aware and proud of it on my little VW beetle!
I’ll click Donate for sure.
I’m saddened.
Anyone who has seen the earliest posts knows she was pretty much content to blog happily and share her insights without calling attention to herself.
She was happy to support what she believed in, and criticize what didn’t seem right.
So it was deeply ironic that Mudflats became so popular. She was not seeking the attention.
And now. Geez!
I’m hoping others will support her too.
Lets follow her example and “pay attention” and speak out and hold our politicians accountable.
In the end we will be standing up for not only her rights, and bloggers’ rights, but our own.
We might even get better government out of it too.
It’s time to come together.
I love you AKM
You were in my last thoughts before sleeping and my first when rising. Stay well and keep up the good work you are doing! I smell a book deal AKM, and a stint on MSNBC.
AKM + Olbermann
I read your posts regularly, and share the pictures of Brian the Moose with my kids; they love it. I live in Kansas City and feel very fortunate to have access to your window into Alaska. I hope you will be able to keep the curtains open and continue to be our gracious tour guide, in spite of the childish little pranksters.
Morning. I was hoping this was a bad dream I had last night.
Thanks, Snoskred, for all you do here.
AKM, I’m not leaving unless you do.
I hope this costs Doogan much time, money and aggravation. What a stupid, stupid man.
Oh, I forgot to mention, it’s an ethics violation: AS24.60.010, certainly; possibly AS24.60.060, and criminal statute AS11.56.860, depending on how he obtained the information.
Remember, if you’re filing an ethics complaint, it has to happen while the person is still in office, when they’re not campaigning for office, and within five years of the event.
Good luck – and if you want to set up a legal fund, I will donate all I can.
Muddy,
I have not commented lately but do tune in….actually almost daily.
I grew up not far from the Zambezi River in Africa. I never thought that I would have any interest in Alaska….you sucked me in and I have loved it…with Palin, with Alaska, with wolves and bears and with Brian and Brenda, and I thank you.
Please, please do not give up the blog.
So they know who you are now, so WHAT. ( Could it be a relief ? )
You are entitled to an opinion, and I thank you for that.
Please keep going…
Got the email about being overlaoded. I’ll be checking in, but will try not to post is it’s in a really high number. Or will post once, rather than 7 times, or whatever.
The best.
AKMuckraker: I’ve been reading your blog since Palin was nominated for VP. I love your “take” on things. I love your sense of humor. I love your encounters with Brian! After the presidential election, I cleaned out my political website “favorites” cause I needed to get on with my life and not spend so much time on the computer. But I kept yours and I’ve visited almost every day since. I’m sorry Mike Doogan is such an ass.
We Puppies are going to need more bandwidth, so please join me in donating if you can
Remember the battle cry “The whole world is watching’ This is certainly Part Two!
Maybe we should start using our real names. Just an idea.
Antsy – people have the right to remain anonymous. They do it for many reasons and it is their own choice. If they want to use their real name that is fine, but there is no need to put their own selves at potential risk just to support AKMuckraker. Because there are a lot of nuts out there on the interwebs, it is safer not to use your real name.
On that note, I am keeping a fairly close eye on the comments today. Please if someone trolls, do not respond to them, as their comment will be deleted as soon as I spot it.
Thanks all..
btw, as per my last comment, I’m not advocating that newspapers require real names for commenters, just pointing out that the damage done to polite exchange of ideas by rabid commenters from places like Team Sarah is real, whereas the so-called damage to public officials like Palin, due to anonymous bloggers, is a fabrication.
I promise not to respond to trolls in words and only respond to them in my vengeance fantasy running in my head.
Also, somewhere back in one of the tank threads was a link to the daily status update for the facility. Anybody remember where it is? I haven’t had enough coffee yet to look for it, and i feel like crap. Was that coming out of Cook Inlet Keepers? Can’t remember.
Response to Aussie, who quoted a poster named Bea:
Tell Mike Doogan to take advice from a good First Amendment lawyer before he digs himself in an even deeper hole. You can’t invoke the First Amendment when your intention is to abridge the free speech of others. Ask Jeff Webster how that legal strategy worked out for him!
AKM – sending the love and good vibrations to you and yours……..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC2gZMNkyJo
womanwithsardinecanNo Gravatar (05:12:48) : SHE SAID KICK HIM IN THE NUTS! LOL…that made my morning:)
Possum said –
“Can we start a Sack DooDoo along with the sacSarah org?
I can see the ads now… a pooper scooper, a sack, an Alaskan Huskey… well, you get the picture.”
thanks for the first laughter I’ve had since this all started yesterday. Maybe we could all now have — a Dooper Scooper. Anyone in this group a designer? Think of the money that could be raised in a quick hurry to Scoop the Doop…..
What a dolt Doogan is. Have sent a restrained but cutting email to his personal web address. The world is watching, AKM. Hold firm. What you say in this magnificent blog needs to be said so don’t you quit.
I’m outraged that someone would do this.
Just finished reading Progressive Alaska’s blog giving an email exchange between him and Rep Doogan. The emails from Rep Doogan show him to be an arrogant, vindictive and self righteous individual. Bob Poe’s ‘apology’ for Mike Doogan might have been valid at one point in Rep Doogan’s life, but certainly much too kind and forgiving for the person Doogan has become. One could hope for Doogan’s sake that he might very well benefit from a chance to rest and restore his mental/emotional health through retirement. Immediate!
AKM isn’t (wasn’t) anonymous she was creating under a pen name
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pen_name
and I hope she continues to do so.
I spent the day yesterday at a seminar Find it Free and Fast on the Net: Strategies for legal research on the Web
It is hard to believe all the details you can find out about someone if you know where to look.
I will continue to remain anonymous
Can’t wait to try out some of my new knowledge to unearth something really unhealthy about doo doo
We all know that evil carries the seeds of its own destruction. Doogan = FAIL
Doogan’s aide’s response shows that he/she is as uninformed about the First Amendment as he is. Yes, the First Amendment protects the right to speak. However, it does not protect all speech–i.e., libel and invasion of privacy. I have the right to speak but do not have the right to disclose someone’s private records, whether they are medical or financial or otherwise entitled to privacy. There is a distinction between the sort of speech that the First Amendment was intended to protect (i.e., comment on government) and speech which inhibits or punishes that speech (i.e., disclosing someone’s identity when they have intended to keep it private).
Doogan’s aide’s response shows that he/she is as uninformed about the First Amendment as he is. Yes, the First Amendment protects the right to speak. However, it does not protect all speech–i.e., libel and invasion of privacy. I have the right to speak but do not have the right to disclose someone’s private records, whether they are medical or financial or otherwise entitled to privacy. There is a distinction between the sort of speech that the First Amendment was intended to protect (i.e., comment on government) and speech which inhibits or punishes that speech (i.e., disclosing someone’s identity when they have intended to keep it private).
antiAnti (04:47:47) :
oops sorry it’s the akdemocrats web site
http://www.akdemocrats.org/doogan/032709_2_doogan_in_juneau.htm
——————————————————-
I emailed them and demanded they remove that paragraph, that it violates innumerable constitutional and civil rights of an innocent person. And worse.
I just want to say that I am absolutely disgusted by M. Doogan’s actions. Not only was it none of his business ousting AKM’s true identity but it completely blows my mind trying to figure out the Why? As an elected official where did he think this could in any way be beneficial to Alaska and to the Alaskan People?
What also disturbs me was the way he went about it. A quick e-mail? Jeanne, I will oust you!?!? Not that it would have made this any better but at least have the decency to find out the why anonymous first. He knew who AKM was. So why not let her explain it to him?
I hope AKM managed to get any sleep last night. I also hope that she will keep on blogging. I have become a dedicated daily reader of Mudflats since sometime last August.
AKM I am sorry your world got turned upside down. I will keep you, spouse and your children in my prayers.
Hey Guys..
Just in case you didn’t know, the space shuttle lands today.
If you have never watched this via NASA tv on the interwebs, you should. It is a thing of great beauty.
You can tune in now if you like –
http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/
We’re starting to see some major load on the server, so if things go down for a little bit, apologies – our new server is not online yet.
Cheers,
Snos
Ugh…the slowdown is back. This may be the last time I can get through. The world is awake now and they are apparently all headed for mudflats. I’m frustrated that I won’t have my daily update on GINO’s latest moronicy, because I’m sure she’s up to something as usual, especially since her lies about the legislature went viral.
Everybody try to have a good day, even without our daily dose of AKM, and don’t feed the trolls!
AKM….I am with Paula on this one. Use this to your advantage and I see you and Shannyn Moore teaming up with the likes of MSNBC. You are not only a force to be reckoned with, but add in Shannyn and Celtic Diva and us Alaskan’s and everyone else is very well informed on Alaska politics. As a female though, I truly appreciate the female perspective from all three of you ladies. I really do start my morning with Halcro and Phillip Munger on their blogs, they are amazing as well. By the time I have finished my second cup of coffee and have gone thru my favorite blogs, I am ready to start my day. It’s like reading five newspapers every morning before I leave for work.
If it wasn’t for all of our wonderful bloggers in Alaska, it would be business as usual, and it would be up to the FBI to finally hold our poiticians accountable. AKM, I know this is difficult, but as an Alaskan, I need you to stay here and continue to help keep us informed. You are extremely bright, intelligent, thoughtful, courageous and totally insightful. Now Martha Unalaska Yard Sign and I have our super power red capes we put on when we have just had enough of Palin and her antics. Put your cape on my dear, because we really , really need you to continue helping keeping us informed, on Alaska’s politics and our politicians.
I am sending you a big Southeast Alaska Bear hug and keeping my fingers crossed that you will get back in the saddle and kick some A$$….cause that’s what us girls down here in Southeast Alaska do….we just like to give it right back at them!
I’m still trying to catch up with everything. Now I know why I was having problems getting on The Forum last night. She had every right to stay anonymous, or use a pen name, if she chose. There’s a long histroy of that. Many of our founding fathers wrote using pen names.
I found Mudflats just moments after JM’s announcement. She was already familiar to me because we have been to Alaska so many times, but I learned much more about her from AKM. The politics up there always fascinated us; they are so slimey.
I hope this all works out for the best for AKM, but I’m sure she is still in shock.
I will now donate again.
Already posted my outrage on another posting (I’m disgusted) but want to add more.
When doogin outed AKM he did more than expose her name. He exposed her hubby and children as we all know.
BUT EVEN MORE——-HE EXPOSED HIMSELF.
While I detest what he did with every fiber of my being, I am so glad that he outed himself BEFORE he had the chance to go further in the political world.
I donated as well as left a present for MD at his newsletter email address:
Doofus – Shame on you for stalking and outing someone who wished to remain anonymous. I don’t recall anyone asking you to save the bloggers and the world from the mudflats. Sounds like you had a personal beef that you chose to air on the state’s dime. No need to reply as I’m sure your mouth is full with your foot which was previously up your arse.
A thought about Protest letters:
A letter to Doogan probably will not touch his heart and rehabilitate him.
It might flood his in box, but so what?
It might be better to email his colleagues and ask them to Reprimand or Censure him.
Here’s a list of the AK Legislators. (Emails addresses can be constructed by using first and last name)
here:
http://w3.legis.state.ak.us/docs/pdf/whoswho.pdf
Now THAT might do something.
Antsy–>
I’m finally de-lurking, but am going to stay anonymous because I work in the oil patch in Alaska. I would love to have a conversation at work for once that doesn’t involve the person sticking their fingers in their ears and start humming (metaphorically speaking…maybe). I get lucky with an actual conversation every once in a while. That’s why I love all you mudpuppies so much.
Speaking of luck, I just discovered that I recently moved into Doo-doogan’s district from the one next to it. He’s definitely going to get a piece of my mind.
I think marthaUYS mentioned that POM thing for Alaskans to comment. We non-Alaskans can’t use it but I recommend that all of you Alaskans avail yourselves of it.
Mike Doogan does not have nuts to kick. He is of the eunuch species.
http://www.answers.com/topic/eunuch
Mike Doogan,
AKMuckraker has every right to remain anonymous. There are numerous reasons why one might choose to do so, similar to whistle blowers laws. The best reason would be possible repercussion, if one doesn’t bow to the Republican leaders in Alaska, that are full of idealogical buffoonery.
For you to expose her name without her permission just goes to prove, her case. That you have no ethical, moral principals, or decency.
Sincerely,
As Gov Palin would define me, a pathetic blogger in PJs
Very interesting tidbit about Doogan
remember his column?
His column sucked. It made me angry every time I read it.
It was after a horrible murder in a bedroom community in south anchorage. A 13-year-old girl climbed out her bedroom window at 1 a.m. to meet a boy of similar age, and he murdered her.
Doogan wrote in his column that the parents should be ashamed of themselves for letting it happen! He really wrote that. I hope the parents didn’t see it, but he probably didn’t care.
(My LTE said that the child was dead not because she had snuck out at night, as we all did, but because somebody murdered her.)
I know other people who loathed his column too. Nobody who liked it. Did you? I’m not sure why you think he was popular.
What a charmer!!!
I am reposting my response to the Bob Poe post. I think that Bob Poe needs some careful attention if he intends on representing the folks of Alaska.
Your friends can change over time, that can’t be helped, but when a friend takes a vindictive, immoral, perhaps illegal action, you cannot explain it or excuse it away.
If your are an aspiring politician and your friend is a political figure, doing this publicly is just self defeating and stupid.
Now if your friend (Doogan) has nurtured this vindictive streak and he has just proven he will “out” whom he sees fit, perhaps he knows something about you (Poe) that you do not want the public to know.
Pallin’ around with Doogan and trying to explain away his behavior, well it simply stinks, it just stinks.
To AKM and all the other fine folks in Alaska, keep your eyes and ears on this one…….the Poe ………….Doogan………Palin connections.
Terise (12:44:06) :
I just wrote to Mike Doogan and got a response only minutes later. Someone is a little defensive.
Here it is:
Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:07 PM
To: Rep. Mike Doogan
Subject: Bloggers
Rep. Doogan,
I have never in my life written to a Representative before but I feel
compelled now.
I don’t understand why you felt the need to “out” the writer of the Mudflats
Blog, but in my book your actions are about on the level of Eddie Burke
releasing phone number over the air.
I know you don’t feel it, but I just have to say it – Shame on you!!!
Terise n’ha Caitriona
Anchorage, Alaska
Sent Friday, March 27, 2009 1:10pm
So you subscribe to the theory that someone can make relentless attacks on a public figure while hiding her identity? Defend that position if you can.
27
03
2009
===================================
To Bob Poe,
The above exchange between a voter and Rep. Doogan, happened shortly after “the news” of AKMs’ outing. In fact it was the first one posted on the Mudflats.
In two sentences, Rep Doogan ;
1: lies…………………..AKM did not engage in “relentless attacks” against a public figure. When you publish the truth, it is not an attack, it is the truth. AKM only wrote one article concerning Rep Doogan. As far as public figures go, AKMs’ most prolific contributions concern Sarah Palin.
2:insulted a constituent………….. Representatives work FOR the people are paid BY the people and are ELECTED BY THE PEOPLE. If you cannot justify your actions to them, or convince them of your point of view, you tell them that you are sorry that they do not agree with you. Then you thank them for taking the time to engage you and let them know that you respect their opinion. That is what ALL mannered, civilized folks do, not just politicians. Representatives never have any right to insult a voter, NEVER.
3:Ordered a constituent to “defend her position”………….As I pointed out, this person is his boss as it were. It is up to Doogan and/or any other politician to defend their own positions. The voting public are never, ever required to “defend” their positions.
Mr. Poe, there IS no defending a politician that treats voters in this manner, there just is not. Rep Doogan has sent many insulting responses to his voting public, while he does not do this in anonymity, he certainly does not do it in person. Indeed, Rep Doogan hides behind his e-mail. My mother would say of a person like this ” Doogan, he is a brave man…….. when he is on the other end of a telephone”
I have never heard of or known a politician to respond to the public the way Rep Doogan does.
Rep. Doogan has been relentless, (some would say he stalked AKM) in exposing AKMs’ identity. Doogans’ behavior has been obsessive to say the least.
The manner in which Rep Doogan responds to his voters reflects none of the qualities you lend to him in your post, in fact Edward R. Murrow would rollover in his grave at this comparison, quote;
Deep down Mike is a journalist of the old school variety, the Edward R. Murrow type. As a columnist Mike took his fair share of shots from politicians he took on, because his name was attached to the column. For Mike to see others able to do this under different, new rules must be frustrating for him.
===============================================
To round it all off Rep Doogan may have broken some laws in his obsessive quest to uncover AKMs identity, not to mention putting her children in harms way.
Being frustrated does not excuse any, illegal or immoral action. It does not excuse verbally abusing the voters of Alaska.
Rep Les Gara appeared on the Mudflats blog and had a wonderful exchange with the voters and contributors from the four corners of the globe. I’m sure Rep Doogan knew about this, but rather than avail himself of attempting to engage in an opportunity like this, he would rather expose AKMs’ identity.
My final thought for you Mr. Poe, as you seek to win an election of your own, we are judged by the company we keep and as you attempt to excuse the inexcusable, I only see you falling short of your goal.
Yes, everybody’s awake now, so…
Ethics violation: AS24.60.010, certainly;
possibly AS24.60.060, and a crime: AS11.56.860
Any Alaskan over the age of 18 can make an ethics complaint against an Alaskan elected official.
You can also lobby for Doogan’s censure within the Legislature and lobby the state Democratic Party to choose another candidate in 2010. Or, Alaskan Democrats may start a recall petition.
AKMuckraker can, if she so chooses, sue Mr Doogan. No matter what anyone thinks about tort reform, I don’t think a lawsuit against Rep. Doogan would hurt. In fact, it would serve to reinforce bloggers’ and posters’ constitutional right to anonymity, and deter future offenders.
Thanks, Snoskred. Thanks, AKM. Just donated again–had not done so since the fall. My bad. Rock on, AKM!!!!!
Thank you Dr. Chill that is exactly what I will do….
I think she should contact the ACLU
http://www.aclu.org/privacy/internet/15375prs20010711.html
ACLU, Public Citizen Hail First Appeals Court Decision Protecting Anonymous Internet Critics (7/11/2001)
http://www.aclu.org/privacy/internet/15108prs20021001.html
In Legal First, ACLU Asks Pennsylvania Supreme Court to Protect Anonymous Online Speakers from Legal Intimidation (10/1/2002)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PITTSBURGH–In the first case of its kind ever to reach a state supreme court, the American Civil Liberties Union today asked the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to protect anonymous speakers in cyberspace who face legal intimidation from public officials whom they criticize.
AKM, I am so sorry about this turn of events, and I am concerned for your safety. If you haven’t already looked into legal recourse, I urge you to visit the Electronic Freedom Foundation’s web site at http://www.eff.org for a starting point.
There is an interesting page on the EFF web site that discusses the right to anonymous communication. I think it is high time that someone somewhere stands up and challenges Sarah Palin, Mike Doogan and all others who whine and carry on about anonymous bloggers. The right to anonymity is VITAL to our political system. Check out the following quote from a US Supreme Court case upholding the right to such communications. This is taken from the EFF web page http://www.eff.org/issues/anonymity
” Anonymous communications have an important place in our political and social discourse. The Supreme Court has ruled repeatedly that the right to anonymous free speech is protected by the First Amendment. A much-cited 1995 Supreme Court ruling in McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission reads:
” Protections for anonymous speech are vital to democratic discourse. Allowing dissenters to shield their identities frees them to express critical, minority views . . . Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority. . . . It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation . . . at the hand of an intolerant society. ”
This is a cause that is larger than AKM vs. Doogan because it is critical to the protection of the anonymous communications in our future. Take care, AKM! We support you. — Maggie in NC
Hey AKM/Snoskred,
Here’s one more article for you:
http://www.motleymoose.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=1199
Thank you very much Maggie !!!
I think Doogan has a drinking problem and it’s turning his brain into mush. There’s no other explanation for his behavior.
When I was in a rough time, someone said to me, “when your back is up against a wall, God opens a window”.
It’s true! Had that happen a few times. Not like the the Shining, when she’s stuck halfway through this tiny bathroom window, but a big wide one that I could climb out of easily. Hope this window of opportunity can happen for J (AKM) – Oh, and I believer her to be a “she” because of the story of Brian coming up to her window, while she was washing her windows with Windex. I know my husband wouldn’t have taken the time to pull out the Windex.
AKM bless you…I’m not going anywhere..Been here about a month now you’r the reason why…Keep your chinup…((HUGS)) to ya…Hello Mudpuppies…
In all our haste and fury, let’s try very hard not to start taking our anger out on everybody who is trying to figure out what Doogan was thinking. (He obviously wasn’t thinking, not straight anyway!) When I read Bob Poe’s post, I did not read into it that he was excusing Doogan’s behavior in any manner. I’ve read other places where it’s been said that Doogan used to be quite a respected journalist. It very much sounds like Doogan has changed over the past number of years — and the change hasn’t been for the better. I’ve read no responses by any of the bloggers or visitors that have said that what Doogan did was acceptable or good or positive; only that what Doogan did was reprehensible, not nice, not politically correct, against the law, abusive, immoral, illegal, shameful, stalking behavior, disgusting, against the First Ammendment, perfectly AWFUL, etc., etc., etc..
Our love for AKM (even when we didn’t know if she was a he or a she — I knew only that this person was MY FRIEND although obviously not on a first-name basis, only by pseudonyms, but a good friend none-the-less) is what matters now. To me she will always remain AKM!
I’m hoping we can band together in friendship to protect AKM and her family. Only AKM can tell us what she wants us to do to make things “all better.” And to end with here — what Bob Poe insinuated — out of every negative, comes something positive. Excuse me, Mr. Poe, for trying to interpret what you were feeling when you wrote.
And finally to AKM — you are respected, you are our daily news bearer, you are our friend, you are our sister, you are dearly loved. Please don’t let a foolish, vengeful, stupid (even though my mother taught me not to call anybody stupid) man put a barrier between you and all the rest of us. We would be lost without you.
To AKM and fellow mudpuppies – this is what scares people like Doogan, Palin, W.A.R., and Cheney:
http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2539741
Sabrina – Yes , I agree.
AKM, just wanted to add my voice to the hundreds who have already spoken. I’ve been here since the Palin announcement in August. Your wise, witty and thorough pieces have been an extraordinary public service. And cheap therapy when the political days were dark! What you created here is amazing. Whatever you decide to do I know everyone will support you. Here’s hoping that you stick with it. There are too many shady characters in Alaska that need to be held to account.
OT– Just been wondering—Wheres Ann Strongheart, why no updates on the villages? At least come over and give AMK a little encouragement after all shes done for the villages in their time of need. I’m thinking we served our purpose and that’s the end of it, sure hope not.
I too have donated.
I have also contacted the Alaska Democratic party and the national Democratic Party and asked for their censure of Doogan and his actions.
Sorry, can’t call him Representative or Mr. he does not have my respect and I will not show him any.
Snoskred and AKM — thank you. Words are not enough…..
The “rules” AND etiquette for journalism…internet blog vs. MSM, need to be hashed out.
Yes, people are required to sign their names to their comments in newspapers. But that fact surely inhibits many from stating more controversial opinions. (although wingnuts don’t care, so maniacally sure of their toxic opinions). Another difference is that your local newspaper is likely to be seen only by your immediate community, and hopefully your neighbors are less likely to approach with a lynch mob.
A BLOG may be read WIDELY, even world-widely and it ups the chances of being read by disturbed cretins, who may have the means to stalk and possibly harm the blogger and (even worse) his or hers family.
Gee, are they going to ask for SIGNED BALLOTS now? Just think, all those ANONYMOUS VOTERS!
@former alaska, Ann Strongheart has been sick with the flu. She posted a few threads back….
MUDFLATS EXCLUSIVE; Doogan answers critics
http://www.theonion.com/content/opinion/come_on_lighten_up_im_just?utm_source=b-section
My brothers and I have taken dad on a annual fishing trip in Alaska (Anglers Paradise Lodge) for the last 9 yrs. This year dad refuses to go to Alaska over Palin, we can’t be the only ones abandoning $35,000 trips over this Governor.
AKM, you’re so gifted, I hope this situation opens doors for you, your family and Alaska. Please don’t let your wonderful voice be silenced.
Thank you,
Wade Alexander
Paducah, Ky.
RealAlaska writes on a thread from December that Doogan is one of the good guys and that he/she will probably vote for him again. Doogan’s recent actions may have changed his/her vote. But it should change more than that.
RealAlaska, you sound like not just a “good guy”, but like someone who ought to be running to replace Doogan.
A minority party feels it has to protect its members. But this is how the Republican Party became so corrupt. After decades in the political wilderness, they were willing to say anything, do anything, and cover anything up.
What Mr. Doogan did was potentially a civil crime. It speaks of the arrogance of power. It is not something that can be tolerated.
I will be happy to contribute $100 to the campaign of anyone who files to challenge him in the primary. Please drop a note on MercuryRising when your campaign fund is established.
@PROFESSOR—sorry I missed it, tooo much to read–hope she gets well soon.
Good morning Mudpuppies:
I too thought about this until I went to sleep and woke up realizing it was real and not a true story about a wicked troll attacking an anonymous person while using his office.
Buried in the comments above was this – I believe this information can and should be used by anyone who would like to “enlighten” DooDoo of just how he has violated someone’s Constitutional rights. I also truly believe that AKA needs to take this information into consideration – we need her but will understand if she is too afraid and decides to walk away. In our country we all have rights – and the Supreme Court still upholds those rights – so for what it is worth….and it needs to be repeated, over and over and over:
There is an interesting page on the EFF web site that discusses the right to anonymous communication. I think it is high time that someone somewhere stands up and challenges Sarah Palin, Mike Doogan and all others who whine and carry on about anonymous bloggers.
The right to anonymity is VITAL to our political system. Check out the following quote from a US Supreme Court case upholding the right to such communications. This is taken from the EFF web page http://www.eff.org/issues/anonymity
” Anonymous communications have an important place in our political and social discourse. The Supreme Court has ruled repeatedly that the right to anonymous free speech is protected by the First Amendment. A much-cited 1995 Supreme Court ruling in McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission reads:
” Protections for anonymous speech are vital to democratic discourse. Allowing dissenters to shield their identities frees them to express critical, minority views . . . Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority. . . . It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation . . . at the hand of an intolerant society. ”
You Have the Right to Blog Anonymously.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation informs bloggers of their rights and helps in legal matters.
http://www.eff.org/issues/bloggers/legal/join
EFF has fought for your right to speak anonymously on the Internet, establishing legal protections in several states and federal jurisdictions, and developing technologies to help you protect your identity.
Basheert from Arizona I was just going to post this when I saw your post!
Let us know how we can help. Many people on this forum started to try to make people wake up to the evil that is Doogan months ago, but people shrugged it off. He finally exposed himself and I hope that he goes down!
I just sent the AS 2nd Degree Stalking Statute to DooDoo and the money quote from the eff website (and the link) and suggested perhaps he could have someone read it to him.
I will let you guys know if I receive a response.
What a complete moron.
Hopefully lots of us have screenshots of his enews for when he removes it and claims it didn’t happen? For AKM’s lawsuit? (I hope I hope I hope).
She needs to OWN this dirtbag.
AKM: Your deliberate exposure which places you at risk of harm, in my view, is domestic terrorism. No one has the right to use their substituted judgment to share anything about your identity which you have not given express permission to share.
That was done to me by a self-proclaimed progressive community blog, and it amounts to no less than cyber rape. Politics and the low life people who are fascinated and enthralled by its lure I stay as far away as possible from. That includes the writers, the bloggers, the fundraisers, the lobbyists and the politicians.
The US long ago became a fascist oligarchy.
Predators and prey and decidedly NOT a civil society is what the US is.
Watch your back, because you now have evidence that malicious intent is exactly what Doogan evinces.
Hope Doogan’s got DEEP pockets, he’s going to need them. Even if AKM decides not to pursue this legally, this is a precedent setting case. Someone’s going to pick it up and run with it straight to the US Supreme Court. I’ll donate.
How about a movement to censure Doogan for his despicable and illegal action?
http://www.bachmanneffect.com/2009/03/mike-doogan-ousts-akmuckraker.html
I think indictment and conviction should follow.
Just what I was thinking GA Peach AKA………….
Someone is gonna make a name for themselves with this case, I am going to donate to AKM, to help in case she thinks it should be her. It really should be as the original sin was to her.
Thank you, Anonymous and Basheert for reiterating the suggestion to contact the EFF. AKM, I am hoping that you will see my previous post about your Constitutionally guaranteed right to anonymity. Go to http://www.eff.org/issues/anonymity for more info.
I know you never set out to be the latest test case, AKM, but I hope you’ll be strong and stand up for what is vitally important in our society: the right to communicate anonymously.
I intend to support you in every way that I can. Please take care.
– Maggie in NC
Anonymity
“Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority … It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation–and their ideas from suppression–at the hand of an intolerant society.”
In three cases, spanning from 1960 to 1999, the Supreme Court has reaffirmed the principle that sacrificing anonymity “might deter perfectly peaceful discussions of public matters of importance.”
Anonymity–the ability to conceal one’s identity while communicating–enables the expression of political ideas, participation in the government process, membership in political associations, and the practice of religious belief without fear of government intimidation or public retaliation.
Disclosure laws have been upheld only where there is a compelling government interest at stake, such as assuring the integrity of the election process by requiring campaign contribution disclosures.
Anonymity has been an appealing characteristic for the majority of Internet users. Individuals are able to post to message boards, visit chatrooms, and browse informational sites without revealing their identity. This anonymity allows those engaged in unpopular, controversial, or embarrassing activity to seek and disseminate information without sacrificing their privacy or reputations. However, this anonymity is increasingly being threatened as civil litigants have begun using the discovery process to pierce the veil of online anonymity. Since 1998, innumerable civil defamation lawsuits have been filed against “John Doe” defendants by plaintiffs allegedly harmed by anonymous Internet postings.
Current law permits any civil litigant to allege defamation and bring a civil suit. If the subpoena is approved by the court, the ISP must disclose the individual’s name before the statement is proven defamatory. This enables companies to use the discovery process to intimidate anonymous users.
In the first appellate decision to address the issue, a New Jersey appeals court established stringent procedural and evidentiary standards that must be met before the identity of an anonymous online poster can be disclosed through litigation. The court recognized the constitutional right to communicate anonymously and refused to order the identification of a “John Doe” speaker who had posted comments on a Yahoo! message board.
See more at:
http://epic.org/free_speech/
Problem is, Doodoo wasn’t doing this for a defamation lawsuit, but as political revenge from someone is a politcal seat.
Stand tall AKM. Let’s take this sucker down!
Even the Supreme Court is Appalled by Doogan
“Anonymous pamphlets, leaflets, brochures and even books have played an important role in the progress of mankind.” Talley v. California, 362 U.S. 60, 64 (1960). Great works of literature have frequently been produced by authors writing under assumed names. [n.4] Despite readers’ curiosity and the public’s interest in identifying the creator of a work of art, an author generally is free to decide whether or not to disclose her true identity. The decision in favor of anonymity may be motivated by fear of economic or official retaliation, by concern about social ostracism, or merely by a desire to preserve as much of one’s privacy as possible. Whatever the motivation may be, at least in the field of literary endeavor, the interest in having anonymous works enter the marketplace of ideas unquestionably outweighs any public interest in requiring disclosure as a condition of entry. [n.5] Accordingly, an author’s decision to remain anonymous, like other decisions concerning omissions or additions to the content of a publication, is an aspect of the freedom of speech protected by the First Amendment.
“Under our Constitution, anonymous pamphleteering is not a pernicious, fraudulent practice, but an honorable tradition of advocacy and of dissent. Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority.”
Tyrants like Doogan!
McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Comm’n (93-986), 514 U.S. 334 (1995)
I posted a letter on the forum that I sent to each individual of the Senate and the Reps. thanks to Dr. Chills advise. Now I am sending it to the US Attorney General. I don’t live in Alaska, I don’t have a lot of money, but dam I have a lot of time to send e-mails and I truly want to help in this travesty.
AKM- Haven’t commented in a long time but I still check in every few days. As so many others did, I found you the day after SP was announced. Desperate to know more about this person that did not “sit right” with me, I found your brilliant commentary. I delighted in your insight and easy writing style, reveled in your wit, appreciated your integrity, and felt rescued by the mudflats community during the election. Though I am from Georgia, I grew to care about Alaska and your take on the latest events there.
Your courage is inspiring. I am sorry for your loss of privacy. You may be wondering if it was worth it…I just want you to know that you have changed me for the better. You have made me a better citizen of the country and the world. Thank you for that.
I sent email to each AK democratic party legislator, both AK US senators, the political blog contributers at http://community.adn.com/adn/blog/24417
and now I’ll be working my way through the NYTimes. My emphasis is on doogan’s use of government email for clearly non-government communication.
I’m posting this for basheert incase he/she cannot……….
“OK folks – here you all go – The story is now a lead on Daily Kos.
And just for more ammo, here is the eff from the Supreme Court Ruling on anonymity in cyberspace (go get the piece of human DooDoo):
There is an interesting page on the EFF web site that discusses the right to anonymous communication. I think it is high time that someone somewhere stands up and challenges Sarah Palin, Mike Doogan and all others who whine and carry on about anonymous bloggers. The right to anonymity is VITAL to our political system. Check out the following quote from a US Supreme Court case upholding the right to such communications. This is taken from the EFF web page http://www.eff.org/issues/anonymity
” Anonymous communications have an important place in our political and social discourse. The Supreme Court has ruled repeatedly that the right to anonymous free speech is protected by the First Amendment. A much-cited 1995 Supreme Court ruling in McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission reads:
” Protections for anonymous speech are vital to democratic discourse. Allowing dissenters to shield their identities frees them to express critical, minority views . . . Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority. . . . It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation . . . at the hand of an intolerant society. ”
Thank you AKM for all you’ve done. I’m not going anywhere either. I started reading Mudflats after the Reptilian convention. Though I live far away from Alaska in North Carolina; I’ve continued to read your blog after the election. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Thanks.
You do all know and are aware that you can actually write directly to our NEW and ENLIGHTENED President/White House right?
You can go to http://www.whitehouse.gov and hit “contact”.
It works people…they listen.
This violation of AKM’s constitutional right to privacy needs to go to Eric Holder NOW…
Hey AKMuckraker – If you’re up and about and reading this, can you drop by the Admin Chat?
Everyone can I just ask one thing – AKMuckraker is still AKMuckraker. You may know her real name, but out of respect I ask you please not to use it here on the blog.
It’s just a principle of the thing thing, if you know what I mean?
MomaGrizzly2012 at meatharas has changed her name to AKMuckraker!! WTF?? I was over there purusing this mornind and came across a blog posted under AKMuckraker and looked at the profile and she is formerly known as MomaGrizzly and she is a total Sarah lover. I am biting my tounge………….
former alaskan (07:13:33) : OT– Just been wondering—Wheres Ann Strongheart, why no updates on the villages?
———————————
I hope Ann isn’t being stalked too! We haven’t heard from her for awhile….
OK I did it – I sent the eff.org info and an email to the White House and requested this entire issue be directed to Atty Gen Eric Holder as a potential violation of her Constitutional Right to Privacy by an elected official using state resources…
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
I feel g-o-o-o-o-d … do it … let’s do something concrete for AKM …and yes I used my own real honest to goodness name and email.
UK LadyNo Gravatar (07:49:25) :
It really should be as the original sin was to her.
—————-
And us. I think it would make a great class action suit for all of us ‘anonymous’ blog posters.
Got to get back on that moose and ride.
PollyNo Gravatar (08:14:12) :
Somebody said Ann had been down with the flu. I’m sure she’s just as spitting mad as the rest of us. Feel better, Ann.
I very rarely post but have been a lurker Mudpuppie since the fall, I find Alaska politics fascinating plus have family that lives in Fairbanks
The real irony is the part I love best have been the stories about Brian & Brenda….living in Florida the Moose Tales are so exotic..not the crazy politics
I think it’s time we hold Doogan to the same standard he deemed as “proper” in defending his outing of AKM, who the frak was his source? Why aren’t they being cited as the source of the information, why do they get to be anonymous
The one thing that has cheered me somewhat today is the knowledge that Doogan is only now realising what a total moosesh*tstorm he has brought down on his own and his families head, KARMA!!
I just read Doogan’s essay on Ethics on his website. Since it was written at the start of 2007, he may need to refresh his own memory.
Has he ever spoken out about Palin’s ethical lapses?
After reading this story yesterday, I was so enraged that I posted for the very first time ever on a blog. I have been following the comments on this site as well as the many other places this story is being covered. While this ‘outing’ is certainly unconscionable and very likely illegal (unconstitutional perhaps?), I am heartened and inspired by the incredible outpouring of support from around the globe. I doubt that you, AKM, ever realized just how many people you have touched with your words.
As I read the seemingly endless messages of encouragement and sympathy, I have been struggling to find the silver lining in this terrible situation. Although my heart breaks for AKM and her family, I cling to the hope that this event may finally set in motion the unraveling of the vicious, underhanded and self-serving brand of politics that seems to be all too common, not only in Alaska, but throughout our country.
As a new day of hope dawns in our nation’s capital, perhaps this light will also shine across our country and illuminate the truth, whether it be to our elected officials’ delight or dismay. It appears that many of them need to be reminded that they are, in fact, ‘hired’ by US, to represent US and OUR interests to the very best of their ability. Their power is granted by the voters…and can, in turn, be removed by the voters should they fail to do the job they were elected to do. They are not rendered immune, by their ‘exalted’ status, from the laws, ethics and standards of common decency that apply to everyone. They cannot trample on the rights of their constituents merely because they choose to do so. While this situation has caused great pain for many people, perhaps it will serve as the catalyst for something much greater. Perhaps the outrage that is being felt by so many of us will lead to a greater accountability in our various levels of government.
Just think, AKM (and I refuse to think of you as anything else)…what began as a simple little local blog may become an important part of our country’s political history!
My prayers and good wishes are with you, your family, and the greater family that is part of this wonderful muddy world of the ‘flats!
Are all Legislators going to start using their state office resources to publicly expose anyone they may have a problem with? He needs to move his office to the 3rd floor of the Capitol Bldg., next to Senora Palin – his creepy, stupid, vindictiveness fits better in her neighborhood.
AKM I did contact a friend at the ACLU, likely won’t hear ack until Monday. I also requested another friend- a leading legal scholar internationally, to comment on this situation. I’ll let you know what I hear when I hear. I do, however, hope you will seek council. If you can get a nonprofit, like the ACLU, to take your case it won’t cost you a dime.
You have this moment to make a difference for all Americans, bloggers, commenters, politcal dissenters -each of whom have the right as well as the duty to discuss politics without being attacked by elected officials and/or the public.
Golden Retriever MudpuppyNo Gravatar (08:27:32) :
Are all Legislators going to start using their state office resources to publicly expose anyone they may have a problem with? He needs to move his office to the 3rd floor of the Capitol Bldg., next to Senora Palin – his creepy, stupid, vindictiveness fits better in her neighborhood.
——-
JMO, they both should be wearing orange jumpsuits.
Dear AKM– I started reading your blog when Palin was nominated, via the “Who IS this Woman?” grapevine, and found that you had on-the-ground, on-the spot information about her that was unavailable in the MSM. I have kept reading because your comments about Alaska are 1) so interesting about a place I previously knew little about and 2) so relevant to the politics, environmental issues, and overall political culture of the rest of our country. But maybe most of all, because you are a fine writer, with a distinctive style and a wonderful funny, smart, ironic point of view that has struck a nerve and captured people all over the country and the world.
So you MUST find some way to keep writing, although I know issues of family privacy and personal comfort have to be confronted and resolved. Your blog may have to change somewhat, but please let us continue to hear your unique voice in this time of so much chatter and blather! (Ask Rachel Maddow how she does it–I think she is your sister under the skin!) Best wishes and thanks for all you’ve accomplished and WILL accomplish, I’m sure.
Why did ADN take this story down “pressure”? AkM don’t give up they will win! You have my donation, keep up the fight.
I sent the following email to Rep. Doogan (but I had to remove some links to get past the spam filter here):
Dear Representative Doogan,
I am deeply disappointed to learn that you have taken the step of revealing the name behind an pseudonymous blogger for no good reason. A vague sense of “accountability” is not the point: anonymity and pseudonymity are critical tools in broadening and maintaining a strong public discourse in an age of high information access. It’s nearly impossible to have a private conversation online — witness the republishing yesterday of a thread from a supposedly closed and private journalistic listserv — and there are too many partisans and, to be honest, sociopaths in the world who will take political disagreement as permission for hostile, even threatening, behavior.
Internet forums of any repute will not reveal the name of a pseudonymous blogger, even a hostile one, unless that person has threatened to break the law or committed some truly egregious breach of community standards. Many forums actually work this into their comment policy, permitting statements which violate this protection of free speech to be edited or removed, and commenters who attempt to reveal online identities may be banned entirely. (see, for example the “Online Integrity”-inspired policy at Progressive Historians: http://www.progressivehistorians.com/2007/09/anonymity.html) There are a lot of reasons to be pseudonymous on the internet. Even websites which strongly encourage the use of actual names often have exceptions for stable pseudonyms of people with real concerns about associating their name with certain positions. (for example, see the comment policy of the History News Network, which I helped to craft and enforce: http://hnn.us/articles/1885.html)
There is a great deal more accountability in pseudonymous blogging than you might think. A stable pseudonym is an identity, and the dynamic and open forum of most blogs and inter-blog discussions means that a pseudonymous blogger who transgresses normal or internet ettiquette or standards of truthfulness will usually be called on it, and that transgression forever — in the eternal memory of the Web — be associated with their name. True anonymity is very difficult to maintain and most people know that anonymous sources are the most unreliable; pseudonymous sources need to be evaluated just like named ones, in light of their track record and demonstrated expertise. See, for example, this discussion of pseudonymity at HNN: http://hnn.us/blogs/comments/54242.html
I blog and comment under my real name at HNN and Frog in a Well (link above), among other venues. I also have a pseudonym — no, I’m not going to tell you what it is — which I use for political and pop culture discussions and other topics which I don’t want to show up when a colleague or fellow academic or student throws my name into google or yahoo; I even discuss history under that name, when I don’t feel it necessary to invoke my degrees or want to attract attention to the discussion, or when the discussion is more political than academic. I do use less formal language under my pseudonym, but I don’t say anything which I would be ashamed to associate with my name; only things that have nothing to do with my career and public life. Moreover, though it is a pseudonym, it’s not anonymity: there are a fair number of people at this point who know the real identity behind my pseudonym. Some of them figured it out in the early years of my pseudonymous blog, when I was very bad at anonymity and left too much evidence; some of them figured it out from comments that I left, because I’ve never used an IP anonymizer or other technical tool for covering my tracks (If I want a blog owner to remain ignorant of my identity, I have to chose one or the other under which to comment there; commenting under both will immediately reveal, to an observant blog manager, that both names refer to the same person); in some cases I’ve revealed myself because I wanted to share my expertise or clear up some confusion. I have never used my dual identities to present different opinions, or give the impression of more than one person sharing a position (aka “sock puppet”), or attacked someone who criticized me professionally or personally. It’s a way for me to have a full voice online without complicating my professional life. Yes, I sacrifice the “appeal to authority” that comes with my professional accomplishments, but it also means that my contributions are taken on their merits, which really ought to be the norm in political discourse anyway.
Free speech — and privacy more generally — is going to be one of the most important and difficult issues of the 21st century. You owe it to your constitutents to educate yourself on the issues — legal, ethical, practical — and on responsible practices.
Respectfully,
Jonathan Dresner, Ph.D.
[address removed; websites can be found via my name above]
After reading this story yesterday, I was so enraged that I posted for the very first time ever on a blog. I have been following the comments on this site as well as the many other places this story is being covered. While this ‘outing’ is certainly unconscionable and very likely illegal (unconstitutional perhaps?), I am heartened and inspired by the incredible outpouring of support from around the globe. I doubt that you, AKM, ever realized just how many people you have touched with your words.
As I read the seemingly endless messages of encouragement and sympathy, I have been struggling to find the silver lining in this terrible situation. Although my heart breaks for AKM and her family, I cling to the hope that this event may finally set in motion the unraveling of the vicious, arrogant, underhanded and self-serving brand of politics that seems to be all too common, not only in Alaska, but throughout our country.
As a new day of hope dawns in our nation’s capital, perhaps this light will also shine across our country and illuminate the truth, whether it be to our elected officials’ delight or dismay. It appears that many of them need to be reminded that they are, in fact, ‘hired’ by US, to represent US and OUR interests to the very best of their ability. Their power is granted by the voters…and can, in turn, be removed by the voters should they fail to do the job they were elected to do. They are not rendered immune, by their ‘exalted’ status, from the laws, ethics and standards of common decency that apply to everyone. They cannot trample on the rights of their constituents merely because they choose to do so. While this situation has caused great pain for many people, perhaps it will serve as the catalyst for something much greater. Perhaps the outrage that is being felt by so many of us will lead to a greater accountability in our various levels of government.
Just think, AKM (and I refuse to think of you as anything else)…what began as a simple little local blog may become an important part of our country’s political history!
My prayers and good wishes are with you, your family, and the greater family that is part of this wonderful muddy world of the ‘flats!
My condolences to AKM. This representative had no right to do what he did.
Peace.
Sorry for the double post…overwhelmed server, page timeouts and all that!
Still no mention of Doogan on the ADN
http://www.adn.com/crime/story/736605.html
To Basheert–and to others who are eager to help in some way– I am hoping you will “cool it” and let AKM take the lead here. AKM needs some space first, and needs to be able to take stock of the situation as it stands, and then AKM needs to choose a course of action.
I am just a humble lurker, and have been grateful for Mudflats since I first started reading it back in September. I hardly ever post anything here, but when I saw AKM’s post last night I felt compelled to try to help out. I posted the link to the EFF site this morning because I was hoping that info would somehow get passed along to AKM. She needs background info for assessing her legal situation right now, and I thought that looked like a good place to start.
I hope this doesn’t sound presumptuous to be issuing this plea to my fellow Mudflatters: let’s let AKM chart the course. Refrain from making public requests for action, or from contacting the justice dept, etc., until we know what AKM’s wishes are.
– Maggie in NC, humbly requesting patience on the part of fellow Mudflatters out there wanting to do something
Here is the ADN page link:
http://www.adn.com/newsreader/story/738385.html?pageNum=1&&&&&mi_pluck_action=page_nav#Comments_Container
Any news on Faux Noise?
(snoskred you can delete my posting for basheert, after reading the thread I see it’s been posted several times.)
Maggie AKA Knife Pile PalinNo Gravatar (08:51:01) :
I hope this doesn’t sound presumptuous to be issuing this plea to my fellow Mudflatters: let’s let AKM chart the course. Refrain from making public requests for action, or from contacting the justice dept, etc., until we know what AKM’s wishes are.
———–
Thanks for that. I’ve been writing vitriolic e-mails in my head, but decided to refrain from putting them to paper until things shook out a little and AKM got his/her feet back under and pointed me in the direction he/she wants me to go in.
Don’t expect a story on the ADN; somebody started a thread within the Geoffrey Dunne blog on Palin robocalls in Iowa and New Hampshire.
Snoskred – my question is this. This story may or may not “go viral” but in every forum where the story appears, AKM’s identity gets published again. The cat may be out of the bag, but everybody here – and on the Daily Kos, HuffPo, Celtic Diva’s site, etc – posts with the best of intentions and genuinely wants to help. Tell us what AKM wants and we will respect that – and we will give her the space and time to let us know.
I would not presume to tell AKM what to do, but I want her to know I support whatever decision she makes. I will wait to hear from her before I take any action other than sending a donation.
There have been many suggestions on proceeding since this issue effects all of us…liberlas and conservs equally. I feel this definitely is a 1st amendment issue. I would like to suggest the ACLU as a possible resource. I like the idea of writing to Holder, but will wait.
Whatever is decided, we need to provide a united front instead of everyone going off in a hundred different directions.
AKM, you know how we all feel. In my case, you’re my favorite, for many reasons, in many ways.
Rock on Sista. If you need, just ask.
thanks Snos. also, too.
Just wanted to give a shout out, and big thank you, to Snoskred and the other anonymous Mudflats elves who’ve helped AKM make this one of THE MOST OUTSTANDING POLITICAL blogs anywhere. Your time, talent, and contributions are very much appreciated!
This is exactly why we all need to come together. Every single person that lives in Alaska that is sick and tired of all the unethical crap that is allowed to go on here needs to meet in Anchorage and have a huge rally. I am absolutely sick of how Alaska is looking to the rest of the world. It can not continue. Please anyone out there that wants to take a stand – LET’S DO IT.
So good to hear from you , Canadian Neighbour !!
@formeralaskan:
Your inference about Ann Strongheart made me embarrassed for the members of this forum and has the potential to embarrass AKM. Ann, if you are reading this, please know that you are loved and appreciated. Most of us would never ever think anything that cynical about you!
I have also not posted here in the last 24 hours but have offered my support to AKM in another forum. Neither Ann nor I need prompting from you!
Wow. I’ve never posted here, but I’ve linked to Mudflats on multiple news sites and progressive websites. I remember the day I read AKM’s first post — Blue in Alaska posted it (I think) on the DU. I was hooked.
I am so sorry this happened. It speaks to such a horrifying mafia type thuggery in your elected officials that I’m frankly astounded. I’m also even more grateful that the Patriarachal Barbie isn’t anywhere near the WH. Many people don’t understand why I’ve never stopped following her moves via Mudflats, Celtic Diva and the ADN — but I figured she wasn’t going away and we’d better keep an eye on her.
The only comfort I can offer is that she doesn’t realize that WE are watching. It’s obvious to me that she manipulated her minion to clean up this mess for her, and punish the evil-doers who had the audacity to out her lack of ethics. It always amazes me that these folks don’t try to stop doing the unethical thing or apologize for it, but rather put all of their energy into stopping other people from reporting it.
The world is watching. We are ever grateful for the courage of AKM. Truly, without this blog, I don’t know how the election would have turned out. AKM can take comfort that while she had no idea how much it would cost her, she did the morally courageous thing and it greatly benefited the WORLD. I am sure she staved off several unnecessary “Holy” wars by keeping those lunatics out of the WH.
We won’t stop. It will never stop. We will be watching Palin and her Band of Thugs. They wanted to go public? Fine. We will watch every move that happens from here on out. Somehow, I don’t think that’s going to go over very well for Palin et al.
To this end, I highly suggest that AKM immediately get several motion cameras (they’re very cheap now) installed around the house. Get a recorder to carry around; those little ones reporters use which fit into your purse. Be prepared to record/tape any interaction at any time. Video and voice recordings are one thing that have huge impact on the public. I still remember the recording during Troopergate.
Sorry if it was too soon or inappropriate for me to make those suggestions or if you’ve already done them long ago and it’s irrelevant. I’ve been stalked, so I’m outraged by this and just want to help AKM be proactive and turn this around on the thugs.
Good luck, thank you, and take care.
Hey People..and Pups… I think it’s time to resurrect a very popular and effective mantra for this current debacle.
YES WE CAN!!!!!
Insert “Alaska” where you see Minnesota and Palin instead of “Bachmann”……..and there you have it.
http://www.stateofprotest.com/religion/recall-bachmann-09/
By the way, if you want to really express your outrage, you should write an email to the Democrats with the real power, the Minority Leader and Minority Whip. There email addresses are rep.beth.kerttula@legis.state.ak.us,
rep.david.guttenberg@legis.state.ak.us .
Here’s the email I sent:
Dear Minority Leader Kerttula and Minority Whip Guttenberg,
You may or may not be aware of this but a fellow member of the Democratic Caucus, Rep. Mike Doogan, has taken it upon himself to trample upon the privacy of a citizen of Alaska. Rep. Doogan recently unilaterally and maliciously revealed the identity of a anonymous female blogger who writes the site Mudflats. Rep. Doogan’s actions were reprehensible and will involuntarily expose this poor woman and her family to the harsh light of the public media spotlight.
Please find below my email to Rep. Doogan complaining about his deplorable actions. I hope that you will take this matter under advisement and consider how poorly these actions by Rep. Doogan tarnish the image of the Democratic Party in Alaska.
If you want to really spread the word, you should email the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics. Their emails are Representative_John_Coghill@legis.state.ak.us,
Representative_Berta_Gardner@legis.state.ak.us,
Senator_Gary_Stevens@legis.state.ak.us,
Senator_Thomas_Wagoner@legis.state.ak.us .
Here’s the email I sent:
Dear Reps. Coghill and Gardner and Sens. Stevens and Wagoner,
You may or may not be aware of this but a member of the Alaska House of Representatives, Rep. Mike Doogan, has taken it upon himself to trample upon the privacy of a citizen of Alaska. Rep. Doogan recently unilaterally and maliciously revealed the identity of an anonymous female blogger who writes the blog Mudflats. Rep. Doogan’s actions were reprehensible and will involuntarily expose this poor woman and her family to the harsh light of the public media spotlight.
Please find below my email to Rep. Doogan complaining about his deplorable actions. As members of the Alaska legislature’s Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics, I hope that you will take this matter under advisement and consider how poorly these actions by Rep. Doogan tarnish the image of the Alaska legislature.
While I sympathize with AKM’s situation and totally value the insight she provides into the world of Palin and the good that’s she’s been able to afford the rural Alaskans, I find it unrealistic to expect that one could remain anonymous while having such a social impact. Maybe Doogan shouldn’t have done it but her outing was inevitable since there are much more nefarious folks out there. I mean “Political Blog of the Year”? C’mon.
AKMuckraker, I applaud you and your efforts but it’s time to go ahead and publicly claim the accolades and suffer the unfortunate criticisms. I hope that the aura of Palin that propelled you in to the national political spotlight and focussed our attention on the plight of Alaskans provides the rewards to help surmount this development. You obviously have hordes of followers and well wishers from around the world.
As Spiderman was once told: “With great power (your blog) comes great responsibility.”
Any one that wants to falme me: dynabob1@yahoo.com
Here’s a positive action we as Mudflatters can do!!
VOTE!!!!
http://bloggerschoiceawards.com/blogs/show/59166
A reminder that you can vote once for each email address you use and register. We can do it again –YES WE CAN!!!
I voted the day after the 2008 voting closed and now that I have lost my desktop due to a harddrive crash (%@#$%&%!!!), I’m glad I did as I have to rebuild my names, addresses and passwords. I can’t remember what I had for lunch Thursday never mind info from a few years back!!
The Rawstory:
Anti-Palin bloggers: Fox News threatening to ‘ambush’ us
http://rawstory.com/news/2008/AntiPalin_bloggers_Fox_News_threatening_to_0327.html
I think this is going to blowback big on doo-dogan and palin/Faux noise.
Big time!
MizzR wrote –
Snoskred – my question is this. This story may or may not “go viral” but in every forum where the story appears, AKM’s identity gets published again. The cat may be out of the bag, but everybody here – and on the Daily Kos, HuffPo, Celtic Diva’s site, etc – posts with the best of intentions and genuinely wants to help. Tell us what AKM wants and we will respect that – and we will give her the space and time to let us know.
We can’t control what other sites do, but we can control what we do here on this blog. Until AKMuckraker tells us to call her by her real name, why don’t we try and respect the fact that until now she has been known as AKMuckraker and continue to use that name for her?
It may take a few days for AKMuckraker to return. In the meantime here on this blog, we can choose to respect her previous wishes – the wishes she had until Doogan outed her, which was to be known as AKMuckraker.
If you do want to write letters, we have a suggestion from Dr Chill on the forums -
http://www.themudflats.net/forum/index.php/topic,6678.msg63624.html#msg63624
I think it may be better to send email to those people than waste time with Doogan at this stage, I think. It can’t do any harm to ask them to reprimand or censure..
I did put up a post at ADN in the letters unfiltered section. Just generally asking people what they think. Anyone who wishes to stop by and leave a comment please do. I am interested in this because of AKM, but also because of how it effects us all no matter our political learnings. I view as very much a 1st amendment issue and abuse of power by a politician.
Hi Snoskered – I know you guys have your hands full up there, but are there any plans for a T-shirt showing support for AKM and Mudflats? I’d love to be the first one on my block to sport one – hell, we could have a little contest to see how quickly we can get pix of mudpuppies wearing ‘em in all 50 states.
Hi Snoskered – I know you guys have your hands full up there, but are there any plans for a T-shirt showing support for AKM and Mudflats – something along the lines of “Mudflat rules; Doogan’s a fool” ? I’d love to be the first on my block to sport one, but I don’t want to just have one printed up if there’s a way you all could sell ‘em to benefit AKM. – hell, maybe we could have a little contest to see how quickly we can get pix of mudpuppies wearing ‘em in all 50 states.
Dear AKM and fellow pups, though this outing was a terrible thing, it once again reminds me why I come here daily, and participate as I can on the forums … AKM you are an inspiration to us, many of us wish we could express ourselves as well as you, we admire your humor and sense of justice, we love you for giving us a place to hang out, express ourselves, laugh and play, and discuss the issues without fear of being put down or attacked. It is a virtual home to many of us, where we feel safe and happy … when one of us is attacked, all of us are attacked and we will fight the fight with AKM on any level she needs, because WE CAN .. we are Mudpuppies of great strength. We heart you AKM! -Sabine and Kenny Stanley, Sandston, Virginia
One other thingamabob Snoskred, AKM identified herself on the About/Contact page here. I don’t think she’s asked to be shielded any longer.
go here for updates……
http://www.avo.alaska.edu/activity/Redoubt.php
Friday, March 27, 2009 8:51 08:51:49 AM AKDT
An eruption of Redoubt volcano occurred at approximately 08:40 AKDT (16:40 UTC). National Weather Service reports the cloud height to be approximately 50,000 ft above sea level based on radar. For ash fall advisories, refer to the National Weather Service Redoubt Coordination web page http://pafc.arh.noaa.gov/volcano.php AVO is monitoring the situation closely, the observatory is staffed 24/7.
this is a good web site and organization to support……..
http://www.inletkeeper.org/watershedWatch/redoubt2009/redoubt.htm
here’s a petition letter Cook Inlet Keeper (above organization) sent to Palin about the threatened oil tanks (pdf) not sure if she’s responded, probably not.
http://www.inletkeeper.org/energy/Final%20Palin%20Disaster%20Petition.pdf
Huffpo is picking up on the story now.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dawn-teo/famed-anonymous-anti-pali_b_180313.html
tristan57 – AKM has since removed her name from About/Contact.
Hi, Snoskred. Re: what Tristan57 wrote above. I noticed that AKM removed her name from the Outing post, and it is not in the “About” page–not that I could see. Should someone also notify other progressive bloggers in AK about this, as some of them have AKM’s name on their sites still.
Professor (07:21:29) :
@former alaska, Ann Strongheart has been sick with the flu. She posted a few threads back….
——————–
Come on over to anonymousbloggers and see what we have been working on. Ann S HAS been ill …
AKM has not ONLY touched the hearts and minds of so many folks , AKM has stood up for shining a light ALL over this sate. Rural Alaska would NEVER have gotten the amount of help it has this year without AKM.
Mr Tucker and Ann Strongheart and Victoria Briggs spoke right up- as everyday people- but AKM is one of the few who lent a megaphone so they could be heard… and clear back at the beginning.
Mr doogan wanted to take a slap at what journalism has become should have taken a slap at the print journalism folks here in Alaska who report on the bush, THE BULK OF THIS STATE, merely as an afterthought…
AKM you rest up!
Will live with whatever you decide to do but am sure hoping we can cover your back so you can cover all the doings in this state!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Snoskred- thank you…and all the helper bees behind the ‘flats.
tristan57No Gravatar (09:30:30) :
One other thingamabob Snoskred, AKM identified herself on the About/Contact page here. I don’t think she’s asked to be shielded any longer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Go look again! It has been changed. Please everyone, respect AKM’s privacy even if some a-holes won’t!
Pearl 89
Guess the unfiltered letters are now filtered, no letter on this subject there.
Sad state of affairs when a person speaking the truth must suddenly live in fear because her name is revealed. It’s up to you Alaskan mudpuppies to protect and defend her. We can’t do it from down here. We’ll do all we can as far as money and moral support, but you up there must do the heavy lifting.
We have awakened a sleeping giant and filled it with a terrible resolve.
Go Mudflats!!!!
tristan57No Gravatar (09:30:30) :
One other thingamabob Snoskred, AKM identified herself on the About/Contact page here. I don’t think she’s asked to be shielded any longer.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Go look again! It has been changed. Please everyone, respect AKM’s privacy even if some a-holes won’t!
(I mean doo-doo dogan!)
http://twitter.com/alaska_avo …….. you can get updates via twitter
this weather watch doesn’t sound too pleasant, hope Faux Noise is miserable.
ANCHORAGE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF…ANCHORAGE…EAGLE RIVER…INDIAN…
EKLUTNA
515 AM AKDT SAT MAR 28 2009
…HIGH WIND WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY
EVENING ALONG TURNAGAIN ARM AND HIGHER ELEVATIONS…
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN ANCHORAGE HAS ISSUED A HIGH WIND
WATCH ALONG TURNAGAIN ARM AND HIGHER ELEVATIONS…WHICH IS IN EFFECT
FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING.
A STRONG WEATHER FRONT WILL MOVE INTO THE NORTHERN GULF LATE
TONIGHT. AHEAD OF THE FRONT THE PRESSURE GRADIENT WILL TIGHTEN AND
CHANNEL STRONG WINDS THROUGH TURNAGAIN ARM AND HIGHER ELEVATIONS.
WINDS WILL INCREASE OVERNIGHT TO 45 TO 60 MPH WITH POSSIBLE GUSTS
TO 80 MPH AFTER MIDNIGHT.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A HIGH WIND WATCH MEANS THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR A HAZARDOUS
HIGH WIND EVENT. PEOPLE ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLOSELY MONITOR THIS
WEATHER SITUATION. PREPARATION FOR THIS POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS
WEATHER EVENT SHOULD BEGIN NOW.
Dear AKM
I was one of the quarter million who found you when Palin became a national figure, and I’ve been a pretty constant visitor since then. You are a first rate muckraker, thoroughly sifting through the mud without ever descending to slime. I agree that Mr. Franklin would have found you a kindred soul.
I hope that it works in your life to keep blogging. Your voice and the example that you set with it are an inspiration.
I do believe your 1st amendment rights have been violated. You should contact the ACLU.
Here is a piece on Anaymous Speech on the internet:
http://www.firstamendmentlawyerblog.com/2008/08/anonymous_speech_right_or_wron.html
PR 101: wait 2 weeks and it will all blow over for AKM. For mike doogan (lower case cuz he’s such a small man), it will take a bit longer.
doogan is democrat, eh? what an embarrassment he’s turned out to be as he acts like dickless cheney instead of a kind and caring man.
I wish doogan would try to “out” me. what fun I’d have with that putz.
Just sending my support and good wishes from Minnesota. I started following this blog regularly during the election and I really appreciate the work you do.
I will be sending an email shortly, for whatever it’s worth.
Good luck and good vibes.
My favorite song dedicated to AKM and Celtic Diva who both got hit hard this week. And to mudpups everywhere – Yes We Can!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcKoYG
I just noticed this post on HuffPost about the Sarah Palin robocalls – http://www.huffingtonpost.com/geoffrey-dunn/huffpo-exclusive-right-wi_b_180283.html.
What I particularly liked about the article is the description of Mudflats as the superb Alaskan web site.
{{{{{{{{{{AKM and family}}}}}}}}}}
Sorry, I missed closing the italic tag at the end of that last post. Bummer.
OOPS – didn’t copy the whole thing – Sorry!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcKoYGNj0BU
I’m going to retreat to nurse my cold. I blame doogan for the stress that pushed me over the edge when I had been successfully fighting it.
My parting thoughts are about what Fixed Noise is doing right how, how Andree and Linda are doing. Of course, how AKM is doing. The status of the oil tanks. Where the ash is falling. Where is that stupid GINO and what is she up to today (no good, I’m sure). I would know all this stuff if it weren’t for mr slimeball jerkface dickwad. Thanks a lot, you small pathetic excuse for a human being.
The owners of akdemocrats.org need to think about why an elected official would use their home page to name a single anonymous blogger when the web abounds in anonymous. Surely if the “public process” is involved more names should be published (hah!). I’ve posted to akdemocrats.org asking them to consider the ethics of the postings on their website.
I contacted CNN and MSNBC regarding this story. I’ll let you know if I hear anything back.
AKM has also had an anonymous gender, and chosen his/her use of pronouns etc to maintain that aspect of anonymity. If s/he is deciding to continue to use an androgynous pen name and to preserve as much anonymity as possible , then I believe we should also try to respect that aspect of his/her anonymity.
Until now, most posters have had their own male/female conception of AKM and chosen which gender pronouns to and use. Now that we know, it would be reflexive to use feminine pronouns. However, there are options.
English does not have singular androgynous pronouns but s/he, him/her and his/her work fairly well in writing (unlike in speech).
The plural pronouns Them/They/Their are androgynous. Athough it is clear from their writing that AKM is only one person another option is to use these pronouns.
Sharon (09:35:16) :
Huffpo is picking up on the story now.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dawn-teo/famed-anonymous-anti-pali_b_180313.html
===============================================
Thank you Sharon, I found this great comment there;
WeNeedObam
By the way, if you want to really express your outrage, you should write an email to the Democrats with the real power, the Minority Leader and Minority Whip. There email addresses are rep.beth.kerttula@legis.state.ak.us,
rep.david.guttenberg@legis.state.ak.us .
Here”s the email I sent:
Dear Minority Leader Kerttula and Minority Whip Guttenberg,
You may or may not be aware of this but a fellow member of the Democratic Caucus, Rep. Mike Doogan, has taken it upon himself to trample upon the privacy of a citizen of Alaska. Rep. Doogan recently unilaterally and maliciously revealed the identity of a anonymous female blogger who writes the site Mudflats. Rep. Doogan”s actions were reprehensible and will involuntarily expose this poor woman and her family to the harsh light of the public media spotlight.
If you want to really spread the word, you should email the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics. Their emails are Representative_John_Coghill@legis.state.ak.us,
Representative_Berta_Gardner@legis.state.ak.us,
Senator_Gary_Stevens@legis.state.ak.us,
Senator_Thomas_Wagoner@legis.state.ak.us .
Too funny. Apparently Mr. Doogan wasn’t liking all the e-mail he has been getting because the second e-mail I sent to ‘doogans@gci.net’ bounced. Either his mail box is full or he took down this e-mail address to avoid us contacting him. I’m off to use his legislative contact this time.
On a lighter note – “Kenny” reports that fishin’ is good.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2009/02/02/article-1133589-0343FA96000005DC-221_634x473.jpg
Snoskred,
Just a thought if you have not done so already, is there any way you can access the few past threads and asterisk AKM’s name and/or change it from her name to AKM? I know it’s an idea that adds more work on to what you already have.
I’m only an occasional reader, but this touched a nerve. I too have been stalked and harassed in real life – but by rabid rightwingers – who posted my real name, my employer’s name and address on a public website and who tried to get me fired from my job – all because I expressed an opinion that was different from theirs. It sucks, and AKM, I’m ashamed that one of our own would waste the peoples’ time to to do this to you.
Stay strong, be brave and keep the good words coming. Speaking truth to power – or these days, just speaking TRUTH – has never been more vital or necessary. Bless you!
Warning and question…….I just went to vote for AKM’s blog as best politcal blog of 2008, I noticed at least 2 versions of mudflats web location, thus splitting votes.
Snoskred…….please advise I think the site with the most votes right now is the older archived .com site not the new location.
lets get this right before we vote…….and is there a way to get the blog voting site to combine these nominations?
@lila (10:03:17) :
since I covered my eyes I still don’t know…
Now that we know, it would be reflexive to use feminine pronouns. However, there are options.
————
I settled months ago , in my own lil mind, that AKM was really A/A K/K Muckraker .
I find it is far easier to use AKM as requested than Anastastia/Abercrombie Kiara/Kenneth Muckraker and tidier than using A/A K/KM…and pronouns can be interchangeable with my shot-with-holes -but-I’m-happy-with-it theory.
My guess is that your take is more language legit…
sorry should have posted that one nomination is on the page 1 and another on the page 3 under the political blogs category. there may be more?
agh…..I meant 2009 vote
I honestly believe Doogan had no idea what he was really doing.
I don’t think he understands the internet. He certainly doesn’t understand blogs. I’ll bet he had a hard time moving from a regular typewriter to word processing during his journalistic career. He doesn’t understand the necessity of anonymity on the internet or what a blog really is.
I have never published my real name and address on the internet on anything other than a secure server that would keep in anonymous. I’ve used the same handles on many forums for decades now. I stopped posting on one forum I was a regular on because the owner decided he wanted to be a “legitimate e-zine” and using handles wasn’t professional. He required we all re-register using our real names. I refused and left.
I’m a woman. I’m single. I live alone (except for my dog). While the internet is more mainstream and secure than it used to be, I will not invite stalking of any kind, be it cyber or real by posting personal information. I teach my students the same thing. You never give your real name, address, phone number, etc over the internet. Could you find it if you really wanted? Probably, but you’d have to be pretty internet savvy.
I have two e-mail accounts. One for life and one just for the internet. I use a strong spam filter on both.
I really don’t think Doogan realizes to what extent his “outing” might threaten the physical safety of AKMuckracker. There *are* crazies out there. Then there’s the whole issue of identity theft. We are all being more careful about that. I bought a shredder for all of the mail (junk and otherwise) I have to dispose of. That’s just common sense.
To state it was his constitutional duty to out her is just plain ludicrous. He has no idea what that makes him look like. Which goes back to my first statement. He’s clueless. If that is what he truly believes, then he should be removed from office by his opponent in the next election. He obviously has no working knowledge of the constitution nor his civic duties as a public servant. Be sure to post who his opponent will be and a link to contribute. I don’t live in Alaska but money knows now boundaries.
Like the internet.
Snoskred…….please advise I think the site with the most votes right now is the older archived .com site not the new location.
It is the new location, thanks guys.
AKM has also had an anonymous gender, and chosen his/her use of pronouns etc to maintain that aspect of anonymity. If s/he is deciding to continue to use an androgynous pen name and to preserve as much anonymity as possible , then I believe we should also try to respect that aspect of his/her anonymity.
I said recently on the forums that I have always called AKM she or her.. it isn’t because I knew what gender she was, but just to make life easier for myself when writing things – it can be hard to word things without gender.
I also have a female car, and kayak.. and I don’t know what gender those are either.
AKM never minded that.. I just think it is respectful of us not to use her name – she did not choose to tell us what it was, Dorky Doogan did. It wasn’t her choice.
Another questions for all lawyers and knowledgeable wise ones:
When it is discovered who told Mr. Doogan AKM’s identity (and it WILL be discovered eventually), will that person also be liable in terms of damages in a civil suit? Or in any prosecutorial platform under U.S. law?
Although I have been absent from forum and blog discussions since the beginning of 2009 (work and life have had other plans for my time), I have always made time to catch up on AKMudflat’s daily entries. When I opened up the website this morning I was totally taken off guard and punched in the gut by the latest revelation in AK politics (as I’m sure were most of you fellow mudpuppies).
WTF was Doo(doo)gan thinking?? I picture him patting himself on the back and rewarding himself with an three-scoop ice cream cone. I’d love to smash that cone right up his nasty nostrils! (ok, I feel better- breathe s-l-o-w-l-y e&h)
AKM- I hope you take all the time you need to wrap your head around this. And selfishly, I hope you decide to keep doing what you do best- writing from your heart in a way that touches (and tickles) every reader who has had the pleasure of finding your blog.
{{{{{HUGS}}}}}
@264 Crayons
—————————————————–
“No need to reply as I’m sure your mouth is full with your foot which was previously up your arse.”
LOL – Thanks for the first real good laugh I’ve had since yesterday!
Say NO to Palin in Politics,
The link I posted earlier is for themudflats.net, which is what this site is known as now. I know there are other listings under wordpress which the site was at the time of the last voting session for 2008.
Here is the page link for themudflats.net:
http://bloggerschoiceawards.com/blogs/show/59166
I don’t know of how many of the rest of us Mudflatters are Anchorage residents or at least live within driving distance, but I found a rather interesting event that you all could go to — I think, anyway — that we’ve all read about already.
The Alaska Press Club is having their Journalism Week 2009 at the Anchorage Senior Center from last Thursday to tomorrow, Sunday March 29th. There’s a “workshop fee” of $30/day for non-journalists/non-Press Club members — unless you’re a member of the Senior Center.
In today’s program, the award ceremony is happening in about an hour for Anne Kilkenny, the Wasilla homemaker who sent that e-mail to folks on her e-mail address list, and then it went “viral” as the saying goes (believe it or not, I found a link to the APC’s PDF of the 4-day event at Rep. Doogan’s website!!).
Here’s a partial list of some other topics for today’s presentation:
Saturday Afternoon, March 28, 2009
12:00 – 2:30 PM
Lunch Wasilla commmunity activist Anne Kilkenny talks about her email on Sarah Pali that went viral and how it changed her life…
Panel Discussion – Open & Transparent Government: Fact or Fiction?
Governor Sarah Palin promised an open and transparent government. But when it comes to getting information from her administration, Alaska reporters say they face too many hurdles. Gregg Erickson and Rebecca Braun, who produce the Alaska Budget Report, will share their war stories. Attorney John McKay, who helped draft Alaska’s last revision of its open meetings and open records laws, will offer historical perspective. We’ll also hear from Larry Persily, a former journalist who served in the Palin administration and worked for two other governors. KTUU anchor and reporter Jason Moore will talk about some of the challenges of covering a celebrity governor. MODERATOR: Patrick Yack, a nationally recognized expert in 1st Amendment and open government issues.
2:30 – 4:30 PM
Panel Discussion – Rural Alaskans on the Move.
[...]
(read the rest at http://www.alaskapressclub.org/images/uploads/J-Week_2009,_final_1.pdf )
You go girl!
Hang ‘em High!
The outing of one anonymous blogger – by a politician, using an official political newsletter, is an ominous sign of “big brother watching” and an outrageous offense against all of us who guard our privacy by using a self-chosen moniker on the web.
Whatever AK Muckraker chooses to do (or not do), I support that.
But it is not a good sign that an elected representative chooses to play judge and jury and to meet out a sentence to someone, simply because of exercising the right to free speech (which includes anonymous free speech). This man is an elected representative. Presumably he took an oath of some type. I wonder what that oath says. I wonder if he understand that as an elected representative he has a fiduciary duty to citizens. I wonder if he realizes that, in effect, he has indicted someone – without cause – simply for speaking out in a public blog. His explanation for “outing” a blogger seems to based on his belief that no one should be allowed to speak anonymously. And instead of inquiring if anonymous speech was prohibited by law, he instead took the law into his own hands. He presumed some type of “guilt”. He decided on a punishment. And he meted that out – just like vigilantes do – in the absence of any judicial proceeding.
I personally hope that AK Muckraker and her family decide to pursue this. It is an infringement of her constitutional right to speak as she chooses to speak. An infringement of a federally guaranteed right – by an elected official of a state. Not a judge. Not a jury. There’s been no investigation here by any duly authorized investigating body. But without consulting any judicial authority, this man took things into his own hands.
This is an action which affects every citizen who chooses to post on the web. And it is vital, in my view, that our constitutional rights be upheld and protected. And that when violated, those who disregard them should be held to whatever penalties the law may give. Something precious has been stolen from AK Muckraker. Something precious which can never be returned.
And I, for one, am appalled. I am irate. I am ready to join in whatever can be done to bring justice to this matter.
NASA Discovery just landing (CNN)
I’m surprised Andrew Sullivan hasn’t picked up on this yet. I dropped him a line, and if anyone else wants to urge him to comment, his email is:
andrew@theatlantic.com
To all with Facebook profiles:
Add the “Poor form, Mike Doogan” flair. Go to the Flair application, and search for “Mudflats” or “Doogan.” Be sure to add the Flair box to your profile page, where you can make the “Poor form” flair its “face.”
Free speech and privacy are the rights of all American citizens.
the correct themudflats.net nomination is on page 3, with 7 votes…….there is a contact link but I’ll let the admin deal with that when they get the chance.
bloggerschoiceawards.com
ProfessorNo Gravatar (10:25:13) :
Another questions for all lawyers and knowledgeable wise ones:
When it is discovered who told Mr. Doogan AKM’s identity (and it WILL be discovered eventually), will that person also be liable in terms of damages in a civil suit? Or in any prosecutorial platform under U.S. law?
It doesn’t matter who gave him her name. HE IS RESPONSIBLE. If some harm comes to AKM because of what he did, he will be held legally liable. I sent him an e-mail asking him if he would take responsibility if some harm comes to AKM or her family and his reply was “I have added your rant to my count”. What an a$$hole. I think he’s getting a kick out of this. It’s his 15 minutes of shame.
If AKM chooses to take legal action against him, I will donate what I can to her legal expenses. And when someone challenges him in the next election (I think this pretty much guaranteed that will happen), I will financially support that challenger.
Well, in watching all of this unfold I want to say so much, but there is not much that I can say that hasn’t already been said.
One thing I would like to note is that this sure has taken the heat off of GINO, if only for a moment.
Hopefully this shift in attention will be short lived as we as Mudflatters have important work to do!
Long live Mudflats!
This is OT, meant to cheer up AKM as well as fellow commentors, as it is funny AND interesting!
A very, very special thank you to Snoskred and The Mudflats Forum Team.
Palins palin’ around with scientologists Greta Van Sustren and her husband John Coale.
John Coale, currently advising Sarah Palin on running for president in 2012, is a Scientologist. And according to a memo obtained by Gawker, Coale once plotted to use friendly politicians to advance the power-hungry cult’s agenda.
Coale is a prominent Washington power broker and husband to Fox News’ Greta Van Susteren. According to the Washington Post, he is running Palin’s political action committee behind the scenes and “guiding [her] political image in Washington.
http://gawker.com/5185380/sarah-palin-advisers-secret-scientology-plot-to-take-over-washington
What kind of awful Frankenstein comes from wedding scientology and evangelical fundamentalism?
Overlords flying spaceships out of Alaska volcanoes speaking in tongues?
Yup, Discovery is home safe & sound..loved hearing the sonic booms confirming that it’s on it’s way home
OT…the blogger’s choice awards for 2009 are now open for voting. I just cast my vote for Mudflats for best political blog. I would like to encourage all of you to do the same. Let’s have a repeat of 2008.
Snorsred…thanks for the updates. AKM your Muddies are and will always be there for you! I agree AKM for Govenor!
Now if this doens’t piss you off, please add your comments Muddies, these people are SUCH IDIOTS.
http://spectator.org/archives/2009/03/27/the-lady-is-preoccupied
It just occurred to me.
HOW LONG do you suppose it will be before governorgirl and her AG introduce legislation intended to usurp the right to privacy contained in our state Constitution?
Another Alaskan Blogger here to show my support.
mlaiuppaNo Gravatar (10:23:44) :
I honestly believe Doogan had no idea what he was really doing.
Don’t ever kid yourself, he knew exactly what he was doing and did it proudly with a vengeance. Having been in journalism he knows all about anonymous sources and how valuable they are to the whole reporting process.
He is just an immature bully who got his nose tweaked and is now playing gotcha with AKM. He is going to lose way the hell more than he gained on this stunt. I would be shocked if he manages to hold on to his office especially if anyone gets hurt.
leave it to Limpburg to use a disaster to make digs…….what a despicable man. Doogienobrain can join that list.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/03/27/limbaugh-hillary-is-twice_n_180072.html
Jonathan Dresner (08:37:54) :
I sent the following email to Rep. Doogan (but I had to remove some links to get past the spam filter here):
__________________
Bravo, Mr. Dresner! What a well-written and intelligent email. I can’t say that I expect you to receive something of similar caliber in reply, alas. Do be sure a post whatever drivel Mr. Doogan sends back though.
Blooper,
Last night I had visions of GINO sitting in her kitchen rubbing her hands in that “goody, goody” type of feeling knowing it wasn’t on her head but remains the fact she now knows. She probably was rubbing her hands so much, that she caused enough friction to start a fire!! Any sightings of flames at her house??
In the spirit of civil discourse on this topic, I would like to toss out an opinion that may give me flack, but here goes.
While AK Muckraker’s options at this point are hers and hers only to decide, I have noticed that some here are suggesting she file a civil suit against Mike.
While this may be the most immediately gratifying response, I truly feel that this would only serve to inflame the situation and make it worse. I believe this would only play into his hands as it would be providing more of the kind of exposure that he meant to bring about with his ‘outing’.
Now, this does not mean I think Mike should get away with this without punishment, I just think that punishment should be pursued via the normal channels one would use when pursuing a complaint against a governmental official.
Please correct me if you see any flaws in this argument. I don’t mean to ‘stir up the dust’. What I am suggesting could be the wrong course to take as well, I am just trying to explore all avenues in this case as a concerned Mudflatter.
All of you posting messages of support, you are truly great people for helping AK Muckraker.
What is the difference between O’liely stalking and exposing a blogger, Cheney/Rove/Skeeter/Knovakexposing an undecover CIA agentor Doogan exposing AKM?
if you go to http://bloggerschoiceawards.com/categories/19
you can vote for mudflats. you must sign up first (a 2 minute thingy, they send you a confirmation email) after you sign up, click on “best political blog” there, you will find mudflats. as of this posting, she has 34 votes. lets get her to the top, people!
SouthPawNo Gravatar (10:46:00) :
Snorsred…thanks for the updates. AKM your Muddies are and will always be there for you! I agree AKM for Govenor!
Now if this doens’t piss you off, please add your comments Muddies, these people are SUCH IDIOTS.
http://spectator.org/archives/2009/03/27/the-lady-is-preoccupied
—————-
aaaarrrrrrgggggghhhhhh!!! *bangs head on computer screen* (ouch)
I was going to take a break and go watch my Buffy dvd, but ended up with the wrong episode disc (no, I can NOT watch them out of order) so now I’m banging my head on the computer in frustration.
I can’t function without my AKM daily dose. Some days I really hate the Internet.
here ya go……something for us to do, sign this to send to the white house so we can protect polar bears……..ya know, the bears Palin doesn’t want listed as endangered so they don’t get in her way of drilling for more oil in places no one has business drilling anyway because clean up would be impossible. grrrrr
Take Action During a Bad Week for Polar Bears
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/frances-beinecke/take-action-during-a-bad_b_180023.html
“It’s been a hard week for polar bears. Last Wednesday, the New York Times reported that scientists and officials from the five Arctic nations concluded that climate change is “the most important long-term threat” to the bears. Now the U.S. Minerals Management Service is considering the approval of oil and gas leases in Alaska’s Beaufort and Chukchi Seas– also known as the Polar Bear Seas.”
here’s where you can read and sign a letter…….
http://www.nrdconline.org/campaign/biogems_arctic_0309
Bob Poe spoke of politics and the metamorphosis of the politician (trying to give some defense to Doo’s actions) … I sorta believed what he said was valid, but something about it didn’t ring true with me.
IMO, you are a good (kind) thoughtful, respectful person, or not… And politics – given time and circumstances – brings out your true colors, the real you.
It can’t “change” who you really are. Like AKM said (the wise one), he (Doogone) only exposed himself.
MizzR (04:55:18)
Exactly! And could it possibly roll into a class action lawsuit?
There are times that links have been provided at The Mudflats. I have given one then sat back and watched the feed site, all the traffic, coming and going, from here to there. Could it be possible that Doogan and those like-minded already have a complete list of all the IP addresses? I don’t see why not. Do I care? Not really. Until the information is used in a malice way for personal or physical harm against me and my home; to destroy my right to freedom of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And with that comes freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the right to bear arms, and freedom of privacy, and so forth. Thank you, my forefathers!
There are those who promote terrorist activities in the name of their god. Well, tuft. My Father, and His son, Jesus, I chose to follow, along with His doctrine of love thy neighbor as thyself. What I wish for my family and life, I wish for yours equally. I am by no means trying to push my beliefs on anyone, and I respect everyone’s right to their own beliefs. I leave the rest to my Father. That being said, I strongly advocate SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE. And again, thank you, my forefathers! (See HIS work?)
All Americans should take a stand on this one. Or all our freedoms will be in jeopardy! Thank you for letting me rant!
SillyWhabbit Seattle, WA (10:53:47) :
The difference is doogan is a government official using a government communication to constituents to target a single citizen engaged in activity enjoyed by legions of anonymous bloggers.
And every time I see another snotty response from that dickwad my hand just itches to slap the smirk off his face. Where’s my sardine can? I know it’s around here somewhere.
womanwithsardinecan – I don’t mean to add to your misery……..
http://crooksandliars.com/david-neiwert/michelle-bachmann-sends-pitiful-eart
antiAnti (11:06:52)
And he just showed the world it could be possible. Thus, putting fear in those that could feel threatened and silence them. Shameful, no doubt.
Hi Blooper – Let me try this on for size.
Doo(Doo)gan apparently stalked (2nd Degree Stalking Statute) a private citizen and outed AKM while utilizing State Facilities/Equipment and has spent the last day sending vitriolic responses to constituents on State Time.
The Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled on the Right to Internet Privacy – the link to that decision is everywhere on this blog, as well as many other blogs.
What he did to AKM was illegal (aside from being immoral and stupid) and the fact is, if bullies are not held responsible when they commit criminal acts, then we all lose.
We all have a right to post anonymously and everyone has their own reasons. AKM is not an attack dog and it is not a hate blog.
DooDoo got his panties in a wad and he used State communications to “out” her. He may think what he did will stand, but I doubt that. Violating a citizen’s Constitutional Rights (particularly when it has been a widely held “right” according to the Supremes) is dangerous territory. He stepped over the line – and if he did it to AKM, we all must be aware that he has no compunction or hesitation to misuse his pubic office to stalk and harrass any of us he disagrees with.
The right to privacy is for everyone. In addition to outing AKM, he did it on a State Funded newsletter – I believe that this took it yet one step further. The citizens of Alaska who elected him will be responsible for tossing him. Bringing charges against him for civil rights violations is the very least that should be done as an example to public officials who misuse their office to harrass those who do not agree with them.
If this is not addressed, it will continue.
I have also requested the US Attorney General Eric Holder launch an investigation into his misuse of Public Office and threat/intimidation as well as Civil Rights Violation.
Anon Blogger
I believe the only person with the ability to see your IP address when you post on this blog is AKM and possibly the moderators, depending upon the level to which they have been given clearance for security.
I also believe that if you have posted a link and someone clicks on it to read the link on another site, there is no disclosure of IP addresses unless you actually post on it.
Therefore, I don’t see Doogan et al having the ability to collect IPs.
I’ve been lurking here since I first found the site last summer. Just wanted to add my support .
Canadian Neighbour (11:13:04) :
IP addresses are as vunerable to a savy hacker as anything else on the web.
I just sent Doogan this e-mail:
——————————
Subject: You violated the Alaska Constitution by “outing” the blogger AK Muckraker
[quoted from Steve at http://whatdoino-steve.blogspot.com/ ] “The Alaska Constitution begins with a list of rights and number 22 explicitly addresses privacy.
§ 22. Right of Privacy — The right of the people to privacy is recognized and shall not be infringed. The legislature shall implement this section. [Amended 1972]“
You said in your e-newsletter/blog, “The Alaska Press Club is planning to give one of its awards to a woman who wrote an email highly critical of Sarah Palin that was widely reprinted on the Internet during the past campaign. What’s that I hear? Right-wing Republicans claiming the media are biased against them? Gee, I wonder where they get that idea.”
Is that some kind of twisted logic of your own?
Or did someone else suggest that “reasoning” to you? After all, you DID use the phrase, “What’s that I hear?” Something on the order of hearing, “Say, Mike, you’d be doing me a GREAT favor by sniping at Anne Kilkenny in your e-newsletter…I’ll owe ya, buddy…”
Getting to the topic of my subject line in this e-mail:
So, according to YOUR lights, the only people in Alaska who are qualified to complain about other people are 1) elected officials, and 2) those who have journalism degrees (even though it took at least ONE person 6 years to earn her journalism degree). Bloggers and other Internet users, even those who choose to blog or send e-mails UNDER THEIR OWN NAMES, need not apply?
Oh, by the way, don’t bother replying to this e-mail. Just add it to your “Rant Count”. I’ve had enough of YOUR snarkiness in reading all those e-mails you sent back in December — you remember, the ones you didn’t have the sense to limit to individual addresses? (I, on the other hand, intended the cc: above to members of the Alaska Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics and the Minority Leader and Minority Whip).
Also, thanks for the link to the Alaska Press Club PDF. Hopefully there will be great representation at Anne Kilkenny’s award ceremony and the following presentation on Sarah Palin’s version of “Open & Transparent Government” today.
Sincerely, and much more politely,
Karen Johnson
——————————-
I did send copies to the Senators and Representatives that Martha and Liberty Grape listed in their comments above….
antiAnti
Doogie hasn’t got a big enough brain cell to work around that!!
Hi AKM;
Just wanted to say hello and let you know you h ave been on my mind all night and day. I hope you are wrapping your mind around all this is and coming some conclusion that will be beneficial for you and your family.
One thing I do know and believe is that collectively if we pull together that everything is going to work out for the best.AKM youve got friends globally who are willing to do whatever it takes to fix this. Hugs and hearts to you and family.
AKM, I have not posted since the election but still read daily. You have my support – Mr Doogan may well be in deep doo-doo – I’m pretty sure what he has done is illegal. I hope you will blog again soon.
Canadian Neighbour (11:17:32)
thanks – grinning here.
I have friends for which internet security is a playground so I tend to warn unecessarily.
Shutting down for today.
Why are you asking us to donate money?
Are you going to hire an attorney? I sure hope so.
Canadian Neighbour (11:17:32)
Exactly! Are there others?
And now everyone knows what “KaJo” stands for.
I’ll bet some of you thought it was a take-off on “Cujo”
FACE BOOK PAGE ON DOOGAN….FYI
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=62508578215
here’s another worthy AK fight, one that Bush put in place illegally and no doubt Scarah is in favor of…….note the “spring 2009″ date that clear cut logging could begin! up your Rep. dogsh*t
http://www.savebiogems.org/tongass/
“Stretching 500 miles along the southeast coast of Alaska, the Tongass National Forest lies at the heart of the world’s largest remaining temperate rainforest. With its towering groves of ancient trees, the Tongass supports vibrant populations of eagles, grizzlies, wolves and salmon.
At the behest of the logging industry, the Forest Service has repeatedly tried to sacrifice this vast wilderness to clearcut logging. The Bush administration illegally exempted the forest from the landmark 2001 “roadless rule,” which bans logging and road construction in the most pristine areas of our national forests.
Unless the Obama administration immediately reverses the exemption and restores full protection, timber sales could take place as early as the spring of 2009, threatening many of the old-growth stands that form the wild heart of the magnificent Tongass.”
Although I cannot speak for AKM-
I see this as a civil liberties/civil rights case.
Doogan took AKMs Constitutional right to speak out as a citizen (anon or otherwise) and revealed her for no other reason than to punisher s/he for doing so.
We -the people, cannot tolerate big brother squashing our rights because they don’t like what we had to say. Period.
Basheert from Arizona: That was a very good, well reasoned response. Thank you for your input! I guess only time will tell what will come of this.
Canadian Neighbor: You’re right, I don’t think Doogan has any access to IP’s here. Unfortunately, no website is 100% percent secure, and any website can be hacked. Never assume your IP is untraceable.
I’m not saying put on your tinfoil hat, it is just a good thing to be aware of! =)
One thing you can do, however, is use a proxy. That will use another computer’s IP address instead of your own when you surf or post.
Just google proxies for a good list of proxy sites.
Thank you so much, snoksred, for keeping us up to date. I feel so bad about all of this. I’ll donate and email Doogan but I need direction on what else I can do to help and support our beloved AKM.
To me one of the most important points is that no one has to read and write in Mudflats. It’s a choice. If he doesn’t like what we’re saying he can go elsewhere and so can everyone else. Mudflats is(was?) our free speech zone.
As an Alaskan and a Democrat who lives on the Kenai Peninsula is pretty lonely here politically. I live in a sea of RED. Mudflats is very important to me as a safe place to express myself, listen to others, and not feel totally isolated.
I just made my donation to the AKM Defense Fund. Times are tough, money is tight but this is worth it and feels good.
Also, thank you Karen. Well said.
I agree womanwithsardinecan. aaaaaarrrrgh!!!!!!!!!
Think of all the good AKM has done to help the country. She alerted the lower 48 about Sarah Palin, the media really depended on this blog during the election…..she did what the Republican Party failed to do. I still shutter to think of a McCain Palin Administration. She made the world aware of the problems in native Alaskan villages & organized food & money donations. She created a safe place for people to express their concerns & create friendships all over the world. Thank you AKM for being the concerned person you are & for all you have done.
I have emailed AKMuckraker as well as Celtic Diva at their email accounts. Not sure if I had the correct ones though.
I see today that The Daily Kos has a story about the Mudflats outing angle but not in regards to what Fox is doing there as well. i asked them to cover THAT side as well.
My opinion is that the even bigger story is that Fox will take tape from all 3 of these stories Mudflats,Celtic Diva and the Stimulus refusal money fiasco ( a political nightmare for Palin) and take it back to Washington to edit and try to ‘spin’ it into some sort of a positive for her… and spread it across all their shows on Faux…. for weeks.
Palin and Fox need to repackage her. She looks pretty mean ugly and petty right now.
(As to the Fox crew angle) I had emailed HuffPo, Rachel Maddow, Daily Kos AND “Eye on Palin”.
Most of these might cover the story for a 24hr News cycle till something else comes along. BUT …”Eye on Palin” has a network set up, would be looking for a way to re-energize and get a new message out there as well. (and give them a way to fundraise again ) And they JUST DON”T LIKE HER ! It’s personal. A new video to counteract what FOX is putting together as well. Show the new ugly Palin objective… and would go past the latest news cycle. Their last video (professionally done ) was shown repeatedly on the network shows.
Does anyone else think Calls/emails to ” Eye on Palin ” will get the story out…?
katiebegood (10:38:35) wrote : “It doesn’t matter who gave him her name. HE IS RESPONSIBLE. If some harm comes to AKM because of what he did, he will be held legally liable. I sent him an e-mail asking him if he would take responsibility if some harm comes to AKM or her family and his reply was “I have added your rant to my count”. What an a$$hole. I think he’s getting a kick out of this. It’s his 15 minutes of shame.”
Thanks for your answer, Katiebegood. I understood that Doogan is fully responsible.
What I meant to ask in my original post is if the person who gave Doogan the information may be prosecuted, TOO, as an accomplice to Doogan, under civil law or any prosecutorial platform in the US? (I didn’t use the word “accomplice” the first time, but that’s what I should have asked).
anon blogger, What do you mean “Are there others?”
AntiAnti & Blooper:
If he did find his singular brain cell and for some reason we all started getting emails hurled at us, then we know where they are coming from and there would be a class action suit!! This Canadian Pit-Bull looks at it from this view “Knock yourself out!!!”
I, like many others, found this site during the elections after Palin was announced as the Rep. VP candidate.
Thank you so much for giving us the true picture of this woman.
What a sad, little man this Doogan must be.
My best wishes to you and your family. Be safe. Peace and Love
A little tip to people who are tempted to call Doo-Doo a “drunk”. Don’t.
To Polly who said:
IMO, you are a good (kind) thoughtful, respectful person, or not… And politics – given time and circumstances – brings out your true colors, the real you.
——
Polly, there are many things that can change “the real you” (which is only a snapshot in time), including alcoholism, drug addiction, Altzheimers, all sorts of mental problems such as paranoia, dementia, schizophrenia, depression, etc. and medications for any or all sorts of these disorders. We also know that power often corrupts. Have you ever worked with somebody you liked who was given promotions into upper management and they suddenly turn very pompous and arrogant, even downright venomous? I’ve seen many of these “changes” from good to downright ugly, and once in a great while they recover their bearings and become very nice people again — both in my work and in my family. I’ve also seen just mean, ugly people who stayed that way from the cradle to the grave. From what I have read, Doogan was not always an egomaniac — whatever, he now appears to have developed into a very vengeful, hateful person full of himself.
That being said, there is no excuse for what Doogan did. He may need commitment for mental problems or chemical dependency, he may be sued for what he’s done, he will most likely lose his career because of this (which should be a given).
In the meantime, we must wait to hear from AKM and the direction she would like us to proceed. We need to support her in the way she wishes to be supported. She has given so much to us; soon it will be our time to give back to her. I, for one, am willing to support her in any way I possibly can. I am only one, but I do count! And together with all of you, we are a force to be reckoned with…..but it must be legal, moral and ethical behavior on our part. Yes we can!
Jerome Armstrong, the proprietor of the progressive site myDD posted a truly insensitive comment on the post dedicated to this issue at http://www.mydd.com/story/2009/3/28/151218/852#3
It is truly sad that a liberal blogger would be so callous to the direct attack on blogging let loose by Rep. Doogan.
I love Mudflats, and I love AKM. I’m a New Yorker, but I spend a fair amount of time in Alaska for my work. Discovering Mudflats last fall, like the rest of the world, was a total treat for me.
You go, AKM. Doogan has indeed exposed himself like a dirty old man in a trenchcoat. Embrace your new fame, because you are headed for good things in the world of the new journalism, while Doogan is headed for oblivion, a loser, a liar, and a lowdown bum.
All he’s done is call more attention to this blog, and to your reasoned, informed, gracious writing. I’ll be reading it more regularly from now on.
Canadian Neighbour: Good one!
That made me think of an analogy that I was trying to think of for what Doogle has done to AKM.
I liken Doogle to a Bull that attempted to ram a brick wall at full speed. Yes, the bull caused a few bricks to crack, but the wall is still standing and is strong and sturdy as ever.
And the bull? Completely KO’d.
AKM…feel all the love! AKMuckraker, I told you a while back you had the gift of the pen. And that gift has just opened another unexpected door. Waiting patiently–no pushing necessary.
In honor of AKM and all mudpuppies……it’s 3:25 in the afternoon, I am still in my pj’s, blogging and lovin it, oh I’m also drinking coffee with Baily’s.
…and it will be called The MUDFLATS LAW which will “protect the right to anonymity” by Anonymous Bloggers.
Sounds good to me.
MizzR:
Whether he is or is not a drunk is irrelevant – I think I speak for many on this blog that his personal demons are not the issue.
His stalking paranoid sociopathic behavior is the issue.
He may be a drunk or maybe not. I have no knowledge of that or reason to believe one way or the other.
He is, however, a sociopathic pig.
anon Blogger:
oooooooooooooooo my favorite! Bailey’s for Breakfast!
Cheers!
Geoffrey Dunn
HuffPo Exclusive: Right-Wing PAC Behind Palin Poll Revealed
Link; http://www.huffingtonpost.com/geoffrey-dunn/huffpo-exclusive-right-wi_b_180283.html
Excerpt;
In a story first reported by the superb Alaskan web site Mudflats, there has been a series of robocalls made in recent weeks regarding Alaska governor Sarah Palin in both Iowa and New Hampshire, two key primary sates in the 2012 Republican presidential campaign. (There have also been scattered calls reported in Southeast Alaska).
According to the Mudflats, the calls went something like this:
OMG! The suspence is killing me.
New post.
On anything.
By anyone.
With news of anything.
Where in the heII is Brian?
Say NO to Palin in Politics(11:53:52) :
I am still in my pj’s, blogging and lovin it, oh I’m also drinking coffee with Baily’s.
I’m right there with you Say No…now where did I put that Baily’s!
Jane in SoCal.
@ SouthPaw (11:54:05)
I love it. The MUDFLATS decision… to be quoted in courts from then on!
Canadian Neighbour (11:39:53)
What do I mean, are there others? Well, I guess I was looking at the issue through your point of view in an earlier post about Doogan’s limitations, so to speak. So, are there others that help him in outing AKMuckraker, that would certainly be a fair question. I have novice skills when it comes to computers. But, thanks to AKM and all the mudpuppies, I’m learning. Others!
I feel in love with this site with AKM’s coverage of the plight of the native villages. And it seem to me, has fully exposed Palin for the unethical dummy that she is. Great writing and I hope Doogan hasn’t ruined it.
I don’t think that AKM is “asking for money” at this point– the Donation button has always been there, I assume to help defray costs. I donated this morning just because I bet the server the site uses has really been hit. If AKM does decide to pursue legal action, or needs funds for any other reason, I’ll be happy to give again.
@anon blogger, I think you and I are asking the same question:
“Who were Doogan’s accomplices and what is their liability if there is a civil or
federal lawsuit?”
duct idaho palin (12:01:44) :
pro bono
Please note that AKM has not asked for money – I mentioned that donations could be made. Please note, I wrote this post, not AKM. Those buttons have been there for a long time, ever since the blog moved over from wordpress.com – my memory could be faulty but I think AKM couldn’t have the button on wordpress.com due to the terms of service.
As to the message I posted at timewise…..
honestyinGovNo Gravatar (11:36:35) :
If you think “Eye on Palin “… might report on this, here is the link
http://www.eyeonpalin.org/
question for those in Anchorage when voting early do they use the electronic voting machines? or paper ballots.
The hubby and I voted early for the first time last Nov, we had paper ballots. I’m concerned with the votes in Ak being stolen or manipulated to favor republicans.
I hope everyone gets out and exercises their right to vote! AKM would want that.
http://www.adn.com/news/politics/story/739211.html
“Early voting has begun for the April 7 municipal election, with thousands of votes already cast since polls opened March 23.”
I posted a blog on this at TPM, based on my comment above at 10:35:15:
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/therap/2009/03/bloggers-identity-outed-by-ak.php
I can only imagine what something like this does to a person. I send my prayers and my best wishes that this family may find peace and pursue whatever course they deem best.
OT, but does anyone have any polls regarding the Anchorage mayoral race?
I’m voting for Monegan. And as for Sullivan? Ewwwwwww!
Professor (12:04:35)
Irregardless of any pending legal action, after a thorough investigation, any government employee aiding in the commission of a crime should be removed from government offices promptly.
AKM….Glad to see you are remaining “AKM” on your “About” page….
It’s your persona and creation…
Doogan’s reprehensible action is just a FOOTNOTE in the history of your blog.
In fact, Mr. Footnote’s attempt to hijack your blog as an elected officical is just validation of your blog’s necessity and value…..raking that muck and shedding the light on worthless, destructive politicicans like him and Palin.
How about a little OT humor? Well, technically it’s not OT, since it is about “exposure.” heh.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLCX0607SM8
@KimNo Gravatar (09:01:12) :
This is exactly why we all need to come together. Every single person that lives in Alaska that is sick and tired of all the unethical crap that is allowed to go on here needs to meet in Anchorage and have a huge rally. I am absolutely sick of how Alaska is looking to the rest of the world. It can not continue. Please anyone out there that wants to take a stand – LET’S DO IT.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kim, I think most of the world wide mudflatters are very proud of all of you in Alaska. Alaska just like so many states (we are finding out) just has a few really bad apples that needs to go into the recycling bin.
I think a huge rally wound be great, but it has always bothered me that you all have to do all of the work.
one small story then 2 ideas.
I used to live in CA and on privately owned hillside property just off of Highway 101the family would put one new white cross out for each solider that was killed over seas. i can tell you this was not popular with alot of people but I was really proud of the family for doing it. When you drove by it really made you think.
idea 1
When you guys have your rally, we in the other 49 could sent one postcard from our home state to who ever or where that would make the most impact. Then we would be with you for support. I like this idea!
idea 2
maybe each of us in the lower 49 could get an Alaskan Buddie and if we asked really, really nice and maybe sent our buddie a few dollars they could make a sign for us with or mud names on it with our home town and state. that way we could really be with you and I think this would make a huge statement…can you just see it….I can
thanks MHRT oregon
Hobos Are Us
Ruined it — My personal opinion — I don’t think so. I see this as a time that AKM is just taking a step back to catch his/her breath, sitting comfortably in jammies, having a sip of wine and doing an assessment of options. Upon any option AKM chooses, the family of Mudflatters will be there in full support. Actually, I’m sure if AKM tries to get up from that comfortable chair, he/she will find it quite difficult to move in that there are a whole bunch of us attached to her leg!!! That works out to be a lot to drag around!!
Snoskred (12:06:48)
We mudpuppies know better…don’t worry! Not taken that way at all. And I do stand by my “pro bono” comment…the best will offer their best.
Basheert, trust me on this. Call him an A-Hole instead, because that is proven fact.
I’m from Ohio and I have been a Mudflats lover and follower since Palin was running for VP. I am sickened by the actions of Doogan! My fear is the snowball effect this may start.
I’ve posted a link on my facebook and now others are doing the same…these are folks who don’t even reside in AK. We are all alarmed. Oh yeah, I wrote Mr. Doogan also at the three e-mail addresses listed somewhere above. One of them bounced back saying that sender was unknown…it was his personal book promoting address. I bet he had to adjust his email preferences due to so many e-mails after this broke loose.
AKM, hang in there! In time, this whole thing will end up being a blessing in disguise. I think this chapter in your life while send you down a very rewarding path. Best of luck!
Cyndi from Ohio
Ugh. Never mind, I got off of my lazy arse and got the latest (I think) poll for the Anchorage mayoral race. This poll was current as of February 18.
Sigh, can’t Begich pull a Palin and be senator and mayor at the same time? =)
Dan Sullivan: 23 percent
– Walt Monegan: 10 percent
– Matt Claman: 10 percent
– Sheila Selkregg: 10 percent
– Eric Croft: 8 percent
– Paul Honeman: 3 percent
– A different candidate: 2 percent
– Don’t know: 34 percent
PaulaNo Gravatar (11:26:52) :
Although I cannot speak for AKM-
I see this as a civil liberties/civil rights case.
Doogan took AKMs Constitutional right to speak out as a citizen (anon or otherwise) and revealed her for no other reason than to punisher s/he for doing so.
We -the people, cannot tolerate big brother squashing our rights because they don’t like what we had to say. Period.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Paula,
You took the words right out of my mouth! And also….(ok, ok you guys,lol)
Doo-doo dogan violated all our right here at mudflats, and all of us who wrote him emails re: troopergate as he didn’t BCC our names and email addresses, and god knows (and we know!) who was looking over his shoulder!
It could go into a “class action” suit against him. I was one of the people on the emails!
Although I don’t live in Alaska we know GINO tentacles reach far and wide!
Hey looky – Raw Story has an article on the Faux News attempted “ambush” of the Alaska Bloggers!!!
http://rawstory.com/news/2008/AntiPalin_bloggers_Fox_News_threatening_to_0327.html
I’m so mad.
Not even fresh blueberry bread pudding made me feel happy.
Sending little cyber darts at Doogin by posting links on my page didn’t work.
I’m just pissed.
What a violation.
Mt. Redoubt generating cyclones and lightning. Dramatic photos here:
http://www.avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcact.php?volcname=Redoubt&page=images&eruptionid=610
The Constitution of the State of Alaska
Adopted by the Constitutional Convention February 5, 1956
Ratified by the People of Alaska April 24, 1956
Became Operative with the Formal Proclamation of Statehood January 3, 1959
Section 1.22 – Right of Privacy.
The right of the people to privacy is recognized and shall not be infringed. The legislature shall implement this section. [Approved August 22, 1972]
Excellent blog by TheraP on TPM now:
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/therap/2009/03/bloggers-identity-outed-by-ak.php
check out the cool lightning picture from Mt. Redoubt…..
http://www.adn.com/volcanoes/v-gallery/story/738389.html?/1521/gallery/672348-a739595-t3.html
here’s an ADN update
http://www.adn.com/volcano/story/738389.html?commentSort=RecommendationsDescending&pageNum=1
Found a little tidbit over in the comments on Progressive Alaska…
Apparently, when he was a ‘journalist’, the paper he worked for employeed an ANONYMOUS columnist. The “Alaska Ear” railed at government officials from behind the protection of her anonymity with nary a peep from Doogan. Hmmmm….
As to my earlier suggestion about contacting “Eye On Palin”
CNN is losing badly in the rating with FOX. Fox is up her to do a ‘Gotcha piece ‘ and re-image Sarah. Let CNN get the word out… it’s in their interests as well(against Fox)
CNN’s Rick Sanchez has a toll free call in Number for stories or ideas. He is up to date with the new technology.IE: Twitter Facebook Blogs.
If even half the people on this blog called his number… it would be the #1topic on his recording and make the most noise. Call about Mudflats and the Palin/FOX goons with their Stalker cameras. CNN has an interest to make Fox look bad.
Call NOW….and maybe later as well.
1- 877 692 – 6609
Sarah Palin is lovin’ this. Great distraction from the job she is doing. She may well have had a hand in encouraging him to do this.
OT (sort of since it’s about being nice–which Doogan isn’t and AKM is). Someone sent this to me and I wanted to share it with you puppies. We could all use something to make us feel good today…
A Dog’s Purpose? (from a 6-year-old).
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog’s
owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn’t do anything for Belker, and
offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker ‘s family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a
while after Belker’s Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ”I know why.”
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I’d never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.
He said,”People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?”
The Six-year-old continued,”Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as
long.”
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
@Martha Unalaska Yard Sign (04:02:55) :
I really think that we had a poster who works for the president on the OUT thread – this is very exciting! So think about that AKM – you have the ears and eyes of people working for our awesome President, and probably the First Lady herself, here at Mudflats!
=========
Oh yes! — my l’il ol’ heart just went flippety-flop when I read Barbara’s words!
Moose PuckyNo Gravatar (12:27:43) :
Mt. Redoubt generating cyclones and lightning. Dramatic photos here:
http://www.avo.alaska.edu/volcanoes/volcact.php?volcname=Redoubt&page=images&eruptionid=610
———–
WOW!
On yesterday’s post someone asked, “What would Brian do?”
Well for starters, I think that he would flip over a daggone swingset! Then turning, as if distracted by a swirling motion, he’d hasten to the window, pressing his snow-dipped nose to the glass, and…
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
AKM, the story that you were scribing in not yet finished. We here at the flats are standing with you, even when it would appear difficult to stand. For what they failed to anticipate is that you NEVER, EVER want to “mess with” a gentle giant…especially one that does not take very kindly to the throwing of doo-doo turds. That alone aggravates the hell outta GIANTS!
This cordial community that you have nurtured over the many months represents that Giant…and giants don’t wear gloves. Oh you betcha, it’s on! And just as Morgan and CD were onto something, you have clearly struck a vital nerve…
So as you rest, reflect and recalibrate your life ~ you might also want to meditate on some of your more recent post, to REVIEW a truth that perhaps cut too deeply…thereby upsetting the belly of the beast.
But, by no means do you concede to a drunk and a hypocrite in lipstick! Know w/o shadow of doubt that we have you covered on all sides and in prayer… for peace, provision and protection for you and your family. Your voice will not be stilled.
Btw…. good~on~ya Snoskred for standing in the gap for our dear friend and Gooday to Mudflatters, worldwide!
mommom (12:40:55) :Sarah Palin is lovin’ this. Great distraction from the job she is doing. She may well have had a hand in encouraging him to do this.
————————————-
I wouldn’t doubt it was a mission of Faux News, since they are up here to hound Andrea and Linda… so they may as well… do this…
Wah. I can’t get any traction here with my inquiry. Wah.
Yes, I know Doogan is fully responsible (he is taking “credit” for it, so it’s a no-brainer legally) and of course, he should be held accountable in the courts of law, should AKM decide to go that route.
My questions are with the accomplice(s) and if they are equally culpable and fully prosecutable. I think this was an orchestrated effort; that’s part of my point. [I wonder if anyone else in Doogan's "orbit" is squirming a bit today, and if so, who? And is his/her/their liability, as accomplice(s), the same as Doogan's?]
@ Snorkred, Isn’t it about time to change the title of this thread? I’m sure whatever AKM is doing at the moment it isn’t “sleeping.” And I’d hate to have new comers to Mudflats due to the soon to be world wide news coverage of doogans folly, come in thinking AKM is sleeping while we all wait for the next shoe to drop.
@mhrt (12:17:40)
Hey, I kinda like that. Sort of an adopt an Alaskan program?
oops, sorry that should of been an “s” instead of an “r”…dang finger picking…Snoskred my apology…see doogan it isn’t so hard, yo admit you’re wrong.
Thank You AKM! Doogan is wrong! Thanks for updating Snoskred.
I appreciate what you have done and will do in the future. We need you!
I am not seeing my last post.
Both Ann and I have offered our support and concern to AKM and Diva via email.
Ann is battling the flu AND getting food out. Super Woman that one!!
I got a food delievery out yesterday and am battling a migraine today.
We have also both been battling snow storm like you can’t believe.
Please see all the other projects we have been working on over at
http://www.anonymousbloggers.wordpress.com
We are ever thankful for ALL the support we have gotten from AKM, Diva and of course ALL of you.
We realize we would have little to show for all our efforts if it were not for everyone here and around the world.
Know we are here and supporting the efforts for all.
BTW – Ann and I are too far ‘out’ to be stalked but the backlash is there in other ways.
We and our families are safe so do not worry. We are more concerned for those closer to town and modern communication.
Professor: Over on Celtic Diva’s blog she thinks she has a pretty good idea of who may have aided Doogle in his skulduggery.
I’d be interested to hear who she thinks that is.
Every elected official in Alaska takes an oath both to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Alaska. While the Bill of Rights guarantees free speech, the Alaska Constitution also guarantees the right to privacy.
In addition the Universal declaration of Human Rights says this:
Article 12: “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home or correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks.”
and
Article 19: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.”
We need to urge that the US sign all treaties, including this one.
Link for Universal Declaration of Human Rights here:
http://www.un.org/Overview/rights.html
Okay, so like everyone else I’ve been chewing this over and over again. First of all, my thoughts are with AKMuckraker and family – it is my hope that friends and family have rallied ’round and are keeping watch – the way Snoskred is guarding the pass here.
And I’ve been doing some thinking about Doogan’s statement that people with opinions who fear retribution should not voice those opinions. . . .ahhh the blessed sounds of silence are but benison to a corrupt politician. Then I thought what if?? What if Mudflats went national. . . international . . .what if Mudflats became the the passcode for citizens who guard such national treasures as integrity, independence, the Bill of Rights – and what if everyone who posts here started a “local” Mudflats, even one that just maintained a watchful eye over local politicians. . . I don’t know about you all, but I never much took interest in local doings. . .until Mudflats. Now I’m very interested and found some really strange and not so up-&-up doings in our local city government. Mudflats and AKMuckraker taught me that my voice really does count – but only if I use it and use it well! Not self-righteously, not reactionary, but mindful and forthright. Whaddya think? Can you imagine the chargrin of Doogan to suddenly see Mudpuppies across this country holding their local politicians accountable – we have muddy swamps here in Florida, but I’d gladly blog as a Mudpuppy! After all, where there’s mud, there’s muck.
There is now a Facebook group devoted to calling out Doogan for his actions: http://www.facebook.com/groups/create.php?success=1&customize&gid=82564017994#/group.php?gid=82564017994
To anyone who is thinking about sending Doogan an e-mail, please don’t use your personal e-mail address. He could quite easily turn over your e-mail address to people who would use it for unethical purposes or more likely, he’s collecting them to send an e-mail blast which will publish your e-mail address for all to see. That’s what he did that got him into this mess in the first place. Set up a new hotmail or gmail account if you intend to send Doogan an e-mail to protest his actions. I just realized this problem when he sent me a return e-mail telling me that he has added me to his “list”.
How frustrating this is for us all. I wish there was more that I could do besides sitting here and being ANGRY at the whole thing. I may have something in mind. This whole thing is scary not just on this level, but on another even larger level of what it could mean for bloggers everywhere depending on how far this is taken. I don’t even know what to say. I’m just so sorry this has happened.
I suppose we could all get out our yellow stars of David: Let’s see, hmmm.
How about “I am AKMuckraker” bumperstickers sprouting everwhere?
“I am AKMuckraker” yardsigns?
“I am a ‘bad’ blogger” buttons?
“Stick Corrupt Politicians in the Mudflats” bumperstickers?
Help me out here, folks.
@mmboucher Florida (08:37:44) :
Why did ADN take this story down “pressure”? AkM don’t give up they will win! You have my donation, keep up the fight.
————
……or possibly because someone there realized they could eventually be in court talking about this……..
we can pretend this is Brian and Brenda swimming, oops wait, they both have racks, lol, cool beautiful pic
http://www.savebiogems.org/arctic/
AKM,
“You are the Sunshine in our lives, please don’t take our sunshine away,” This being sung, somewhat off key but sincerely meant. And I live in Maui so that really means something.
Mudflats is my first priority in the morning – while coffee is making, and my last at night. Thank you! And Thanks Snoksred & your wonderful team for all the great work you have been and are doing.
I think Doogan has been “Palinized.” Pretty clear from his comments about anonymous bloggers tearing strips off poor Sawah, his contemptuous comments about Kinney’s Press Club award (Yay- Anne), etc.
Seems it’s not only old white Rethugs and Faux Noise folks that get overly excited by twitches of skirts, winks, & naughty monkey heels. Small brain issues??
Greytdog ? (13:13:00) :
Good idea!!!!!!!!! Martha from Canada.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-461990723502527420
Found this video link on another site that discusses DESPOTISM.
Interesting topic in light of Doo-doogan’s actions.
I really do hope AKM gets legal advice and proceeds to sue this IDIOTT!!
Cynamen Winter (12:51:13)
concur
Here is a link to ADN. I posted it earlier when someone else said it was not there.
http://www.adn.com/newsreader/story/738385.html?pageNum=5&&&&mi_pluck_action=page_nav
I’ve been thinking about a curious aspect of this whole debacle. Doogan did not accurately report AKM’s name. This brings up a few considerations:
–He actually didn’t know the surname and was pushing the envelope to see the results.
–He may have known the accurate name but falsified it to protect himself from risk.
–He may be protected from legal suit by using an inaccurate name.
–He may have accomplished exactly what he was trying to do while minimizing the risk to himself.
–He has certainly gone from a marginalized nobody to an infamous topic of debate….For some people, being the center of attention, even if negatively, is way more important to their ego than being seen as unimportant and marginalized.
It’s very clear to me, regardless of his motivations and machinations, that Doogan was using AKM’s influence and fame to draw attention to himself. Basically, he pimped AKM for his own sorry-ass ego.
In any event, this issue of an elected official, Doogan, going after a citizen’s control of private information should be vigorously pursued, condemned, and prosecuted, if possible.
Finally….it’s important that the Mudflats community continue to use “AKMuckraker” as the moniker of this blogger unless and until AKM changes that name.
mommom – You re-ignited a thought I had earlier. If in fact sarah was communicating with the eunuch on this matter , during the course of an investigation , ALL of eunuch’s e-mails will be looked at. Hm-m-m-m , could get interesting.
@ mommomNo Gravatar (12:40:55) :
Sarah Palin is lovin’ this. Great distraction from the job she is doing. She may well have had a hand in encouraging him to do this.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Mommom ~ surely you mean from the job that she is NOT doing…? And the deflection of dookie’s dastardly deed will determine who gets the last laugh!
The GINO is very near-sighted…and cannot see that which is seemingly afar off. There is such irony in the eruptions of Mt Redoubt, on so many levels….
Professor
I hear you, and I agree, someone blew the whistle and they should take their share of the blame.
I have several conflicting ideas on who that may be.
1. On the Huffpo story the writer, Dawn Teo, says that AKM wrote a letter to the Alaska Dispatch editor in 2007, using her middle name. This is the name that Doogan used in his expose. AKM seems to have removed this paper from her sidebar links.
2. ADN seem very reluctant to publish this story, even though it is now very big. Although they may be worried about it going to litigation.
3. At the Lincoln Dinner, AKM took a very up close and personal photo of GINO, then put it in the blog. GINO probably remembered this and had a word in Doogans shell like. However, if this is the case he will now be thrown under the bus with everyone else. (Iwould prefer it if she threw him to the wolves).
Would this be a case for the FBI, maybe?
wow you guys……..look at these beautiful Redoubt volcano pictures
http://www.groundtruthtrekking.org/blog/
@Lee 323 wrote (13:38:44): “Finally….it’s important that the Mudflats community continue to use “AKMuckraker” as the moniker of this blogger unless and until AKM changes that name.”
I totally agree, Lee. I wonder if someone can let some of the other AK bloggers on the blogroll know of this importance, at least. Because I know of at least one blog that still has AKM’s name published on it, and I’m sure the other bloggers would all want to stand in solidarity with AKM & the Mudflats community.
@Lee 323 wrote (13:38:44): “Finally….it’s important that the Mudflats community continue to use “AKMuckraker” as the moniker of this blogger unless and until AKM changes that name.”
I totally agree, Lee. I wonder if someone can let some of the other AK bloggers on the blogroll know of this importance, at least. Because I know of at least one blog that still has AKM’s name published on it, and I’m sure the other bloggers would all want to stand in solidarity with AKM & the Mudflats community. (I am not registered on other blogs and would possibly be perceived as “trollish” with this suggestion as an outside, were I to pose it to them….)
@Canadian Neighbour (11:13:04) :
Anon Blogger
I believe the only person with the ability to see your IP address when you post on this blog is AKM and possibly the moderators, depending upon the level to which they have been given clearance for security.
I also believe that if you have posted a link and someone clicks on it to read the link on another site, there is no disclosure of IP addresses unless you actually post on it.
Therefore, I don’t see Doogan et al having the ability to collect IPs.
———-
Right, Canadian Neighbour — however, he certainly could if he had the right ‘friends’ …… someone in IT security or law enforcement, for example.
UK Lady (13:52:24)
I thought about the Lincoln Dinner visit as well. Probably so. But even still, he never should have been doing that malice work on the taxpayers time and dime. And never should he have violated her civil rights.
RiversideNo Gravatar (13:26:52) :
I AM MUCKRAKER!
I too have been mulling over