I can understand your reasons for moderating the first ten posts. It prevents spammers from getting a hold.
I joined an animal forum recently (with PR4!) and was horrified that it had been totally taken over by spammers: every section, every thread. Even a sticky by admin about "No spam or advertising" had been added to by several spammers!
Further, each site is free to set its own rules, and such rules vary quite a lot.
So, Janet, I agree with you!