Well, the Internet as everything else in life, is what you make of it.
I for one, enjoy this site immensely. I have grown as an Orthodox Christian thanks to the knowledge shared on this forum. I've learned things I would never have known otherwise.
Hiding from the forum, is just that "hiding". You have to learn how to deal with all the different personalities, your time management, etc. It's just like dealing with people in the office. You have to be able to handle each situation, and get the work done.
I think it's a great idea to close down for a day... If nothing else, we feel the "loss" of the forum...and it makes us realize the gravity of the day all the more strongly. However, I don't think it needs to be shut down for a longer period of time.
If someone feels the site is a detriment to their fasting, then they need to utilize self control and just not log on.