I think we need a bit of a breather. Instances of astroturfing, multiple account users and self-links seem to be increasing at a rate we are not happy with, so we're closing the gate.

We have some ideas about a better way to introduce new members to VS and maintain the high quality level of posts. We'll bring this up in a blog post soon. In the meantime, everyone take a deep breath - and allow me to thank you 4,000 odd Sifters (yes odd) for coalescing into the bestest new online community around.