Yeah, this is odd. This is the first time I've heard of this. Can you check Messages > Settings if there's any option that makes the icon change color?

Nope! Just whatever it was set up as. 

Hmm.. Are you using a home launcher app to customize the theme of the phone?

No unread messages. No flash? Get what you pay for I guess? 

Well that's odd. Can you check if you have any unread text messages? With regards to camera flash, this phone doesn't have it. 

No. Nothing at all!  Also, how do I make the camera flash on this same phone? Thanks!

Did you update anything or install an app on your phone?