Shock-rocker Manson ends show after smiley face stuck on prop

Topeka Capital-Journal, The, May 2, 1999

The Associated Press

WORCESTER, Mass. -- The designer of the smiley face thinks rocker Marilyn Manson needs to lighten up.

Manson stormed off the stage Wednesday during a concert in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, apparently angry that someone stuck a large, yellow smiley face on one of his props. After the singer left, concertgoers rioted and 23 people were arrested. Harvey Ball, who lives in Worcester, said he is proud at the use of his smiley face. Ball is sending Manson an autographed smiley face pin with "Lighten Up Marilyn" written on it. Ball, 77, also wants to warn Manson about World Smile Day, which he is declaring for Oct. 1. "I hope he doesn't have any concerts booked on that date," he said.