Yup and I'm glad you know that because I wish it got more attention! (I'm a mod here, sorry that wasn't clear.) The reason I post those links to past related threads about specific stories is that many readers like to look up old comments on the same topics. Often there are surprises and gems in there.

Oh and there's no implication that the story shouldn't be reposted—reposts are fine after a year or so (https://news.ycombinator.com/newsfaq.html).

Btw, the 'past' link in the top bar shows you (more or less) what the front page looked like on a particular day. To find threads about specific past stories, it's best to use HN Search at the bottom of the page.