[NFB-Arkansas] NFBAR Website Update: Square Integration and Web Coordinator Transition

Fri Apr 24 15:46:05 UTC 2026

Dear NFBAR Members,

I wanted to share an important update on the NFBAR website, along with a
personal note.

Square Integration Update

Before the state convention, Erin Rodney and the National Office web team
began adding Square to the NFBAR website so members can make payments
online. This work has been completed on a test (staging) version of the site
to ensure everything works properly before it is made available to everyone.

We began by running test payments to confirm the checkout process. After
that, the system was moved into real payment mode on the test site so
transactions could be completed and verified from start to finish.

I have now completed all testing and shared my feedback with the National
Office. Overall, the system is working well and will provide a simple and
accessible way for members to:

*	Pay dues
*	Register for events
*	Make donations

One item identified during testing will be corrected before launch:

*	A correction to how the affiliate name appears on the checkout
screen, where "National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas" was displayed
as "NationalFederationoftheBlindofArkaansas"

In addition, one observation from testing is that users will need to expand
the order summary section during checkout to enter their name, contact
information, and payment details (or choose an express payment option).
Being aware of this step should help make the checkout process smoother.

These updates and notes will help ensure a better overall experience for
everyone.

Before the new payment feature is turned on for the live website, the
National Office will first sync (match) the test site with the live site.
This step is important because it ensures any recent website
updates-especially changes made after the convention-are not accidentally
overwritten. In simple terms, this step makes sure nothing gets lost and
that the live site reflects the most up-to-date content. Once everything is
aligned, the Square feature will be moved from the test site to the live
website and made available for everyone to use.

Web Coordinator Transition

I also want to share that on April 22, 2026, I submitted my resignation as
Web Coordinator for the National Federation of the Blind of Arkansas.

After careful consideration, and with the understanding that the Board was
reviewing this position, I chose to submit my resignation proactively. I
felt this approach would support a smooth and professional transition, while
also ensuring members are kept appropriately informed. With the Square
integration project now complete, this also represents a natural point to
conclude my service in the role.

Serving in this role since 2020 has been a meaningful experience. Over the
past six years, I've had the opportunity to support the website, improve
accessibility, and work with many dedicated members and leaders. I am truly
grateful for that experience.

I will continue to support a smooth transition and am happy to answer
questions, share documentation, or provide guidance as needed.

I would like to strongly recommend Shane Popplestone of Ohio, a member of
the NFB Committee on Federation Website Coordination, as my successor in
this role. He has direct experience maintaining an NFB-affiliated website
using Drupal-the same platform that powers the NFBAR website-which would
support a smooth transition and continued stability. I understand the Board
may already be reviewing potential candidates; however, I respectfully ask
that Shane be included for consideration. Based on his experience and
involvement with Federation website efforts, I am confident he would provide
capable and knowledgeable leadership moving forward.

Additional Information

In the interest of full transparency, and to ensure that all members are
equally informed and have the same direct access to information as the Board
of Directors, I am including the two emails I previously sent as attachments
to this message:

*	Square Integration Update and Pending Web Coordinator Resignation
*	Square Integration Update and Web Coordinator Resignation

These documents provide additional detail on the integration process,
testing, and my transition. If you have any questions, please feel free to
reach out.

Thank you for your support and for the opportunity to serve.

Sincerely,

Brian A. Mackey

Brian A. Mackey
President, National Federation of the Blind of PA Greater Berks Chapter
Web Coordinator, National Federation of the Blind Multiple State Affiliates
Board Member & Web Coordinator, Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association
Treasurer, Berks County Rotaract
609-680-8488
 <mailto:Bmackey88 at gmail.com> Bmackey88 at gmail.com

"We Care! We Share! We Grow! We Make A Difference!"
      -Joseph Ruffalo, Jr. (July 6, 1949 - May 3, 2022)

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