Grey background seems to plain, could use some more pizazz. I like the design, but it almost seems too plain. Looks pretty good, It could use some minor text changes, but this can easily be done. Graphics seem of poor quality, also seems fairly plain.
I think I like the flashing one better. Banner is appealing, but only uses a single color, try multiple colors.
I don't really like the text box at the end in red (at least what's there), perhaps include more details. Banner seems to move to quickly and doesn't stay up long enough before it repeats.