I personally think those people that are completely new to this forum, while I agree that the current system where they have to validate their e-mail address and make a short post answering the few questions Rachel posted is great, I think they shouldn't be restricted to just read the forums. I found it quite a hassle to log out just so I can access other forums. Perhaps something could be done about this?
I know the validating thingy only happens once, but still, I thought it'd be nicer for future members