The board provides the smilies; I'm assuming that means that they're a device to be used for communication.
IMO, the constant gibes and harrassment that nino directs toward me are perfectly replied to with the smilie provided. I'm exercising my freedom of expression.
You'll note that any serious attempts at discussion addressed to me by other posters receive a response in words.
Fridge, if you want to assume the position of referee, remind nino that the editor long ago told both nino and I to ignore one another. I did, for a long time, while his gratuitous comments following my posts continued. If he actually takes that advice, there'll be no more smilies from me.