Saluti da Canada!
I don't know who the first italian to join was, but you're not alone here!
It has been said that Toronto and vicinity is home to the most italian descendants outside of Italy. That's where I was born and raised.
By the way, the 'text' smilies can be replaced with the 'icon' ones. When composing your reply, just position your cursor and tap any of the ones on the right or click the [More] at the bottom there and select from all smilies available!
Welcome aboard!