Yeah, I remember the Shipping forum and its close. Bit of a shame, actually; it was one of the sections I really frequented as well as the reason I got into Fanfic. Archaic left shortly after, finding the PA forum inadequate for his (Un)Official List of Shippers thread. I never did see the infamous "prom" thread, but from what I've heard it was mostly a few bad apples.

One of my favorite memories, though, is of the Fanfic mod contest. That was loads of fun, even if I did lose (deservedly so). I actually think the best thing about it was that it sort of taught what makes a good mod, which is something that's harder to learn when you're just promoted straight to a position based on behavior as a member. Besides, it was entertaining for everyone, both participants and onlookers. (It wouldn't completely surprise me if people had gambled on it, hehe.)