message alert

I'm not sure about everyone else but I never notice that I received a private message until several weeks later.

I obviously see the message when I click 'Messages' at the top..but..

It would be great if future versions had some sort of alert message if there is a new message.

Also, I don't like the large empty space on this side ----> when I'm writing a post.
Seems like the smiley faces should be there.