Concerned about most recent 'Optional Items' update.

[kyuven]

I find it strange that people would rather past event items be gone for good than be available for money.

This bothers me too. Exclusivity really annoys me. Give a bonus to people who adopt early, but don't remove the ability to get it entirely for those who adopt later.
If someone wants to spend money on a hat, let them.
The cash shop isn't going anywhere no matter how much you moan about it. Learn to live with it, or quit. I know that's been said a lot, but that doesn't make it less true. If the cash shop is hurting your enjoyment of the game, then quit. Don't play a game that isn't fun.