How do i....
 

get the pm to blink, but i use the gradient effect (category bgs) and want it to take away the gradient when someone has a pm? anyone know what i mean and have an answer?

The blinking private message system is a hack on vB.org , try there

i know that, but i have the category bg, and it doesnt allow the blinking to work

You cannot use the blinking effect with the caregory background, you will have to keep it standard.

If I'm understanding your question correctly, you could use an animated gif instead. Take a look at the template mod that Xiphoid has done [ link ]

thanks mashby thats just what i was thinking. animated gifs is a good idea, and i think ill go with that.