I just wanted to let you guys know that I spoke with John today and we've come up with a couple of methods that will allow managing this spammer issue a bit better.
That being said, understand that I'm just a volunteer around here and I do have a full time day job.

It just so happens that I had today off and was able to get most of the spam handled pretty quickly. This may not always be the case, so please be patient if and when (ha! WHEN is right!) spammers come a swoopin' down on our little playground. I'll get it handled as soon as I can.
Thanks!
g.