If you want something changed then petition the admins. This can be done both for requesting new mods and rule changes. Just create threads in Meta about each issue and maybe theymos will take note or act on them. Theymos doesn't like to have rules set in stone anyway and hence why they're the "unofficial" ones. With that being said, rules are always open to interpretation by each staff member as well. One mod may see them as unsubstantial and unnecessary whilst another may not be bothered by them. I see both arguments as valid and mprep didn't do anything wrong by the rules, but I do think it's harsh removing them and maybe there are certain rules that should be amended or changed. I think people should be allowed to thank people for something without writing an essay, but I also see how it could be an issue if there's just pages and pages of people just writing thanks etc. Maybe there needs to be more discussion on it or a thanks button implemented. I think that would be a better solution personally.