The message of the day is way, way, way too long. The latter is completely neglected and that's a mistake. Present system seems okay. I'm sure I'd keep myself better informed. I expect the methods presently in place are sufficient.
Present practice is quite adequate.
If a truly major change is planned, one month notice might be insufficient in some cases. Also, having the shut down either tuesday or thursday is confusing. The notification is adequate, it would just be easier if always on the same day. The latter is completely neglected and that's a mistake. If an email address is found there then contact information is constructed from the information there.