The Don of Blogs

On the blog show Sunday, I dubbed Charlie Sykes the "Godfather of Wisconsin blogging." Here's why:

• He controls the block. Get linked by Charlie's blog and your blog lights up like a Christmas tree.
• Everyone frantically seeks his favor. Witness all the sad-eyed bloggers lamenting he didn't mention their blog's name Sunday. The Godfather of Blogs doles out favors in small ways... a mention on the blog show... a seat on the blog show... a link... a coveted spot on the blog roll... the order your blog appears on the blog roll... and don't think bloggers don't notice or lobby for this gratitude. Everyone wants a seat at the Don's table.
• He whacks his enemies. Ever wonder why Xoff didn't make the show, haha. Just kidding on this part. I really have no clue. I'm just glad I didn't have to shake his hand and act nicey nicey. Can we give Xoff the horse's head?
• He appreciates loyalty. Watch his back, he'll watch yours.
• Mostly, he's got the power in our 'sphere. Let's face it, the rest of us bloggers are just wannabes hoping for a sliver of his audience.
• He is the Godfather of an underworld that threatens the mainstream. It's still a tad lawless. But it's got a developing ethos with its own codes of conduct and honor and even its own culture.