Note on change in final 16: Gbrent is a late addition to our 16 finalists, as one of our original finalists, ChristopherRoss, was removed for not having opted in to the competition originally. These checks are a normal part of the verification processes we have installed this time around, and because it was caught early enough, we were able to replace him with another finalist.

More changes in final 16: MrNFL and Northsider have admitted they are not of the required age to be in the competition and have been removed. We have replaced them with Dudski and tjw118.

What now?

For the finalists, check this judges' blog later today for some age-verification requirements that we will have.

This week's assignment for the finalists will come Tuesday morning and will be due by noon ET this Friday (May 26).

But you're welcome to continue to blog to your heart's content in addition to the assignment.

Users will be able to vote on the finalists' blogs starting momentarily, and then at the end of the week, once the assignments have all been turned in, the judges will cast their own votes on the blogs.

What if I'm not a finalist?

First off, thank you again for participating. The turnout for NGSII was phenomenal, and like I said, the judges' decisions were very tough.

But now your vote can help determine who will move on through each round of this competition. And the blogs you have created will remain active and we certainly encourage you to continue to be a part of this vibrant community.

 Thanks again to everyone, and congratulations to our finalists.

-Tom