I've checked the logs on Alby's side and since you've unlocked the node payments seem to work again. Can you confirm this? 

An email notification has been sent. Do you have suggestions on how to do this better that it does not get missed. 

To keep up with the latest version we from time to time force updates but send email notifications before that. We will send more of those in the future. Users also can always manually update ideally.

Because you own the keys the unlock to start the node with your password is required.