'Vulgar comic's a bad role model'

Plans to name a New York Street after George Carlin have hit problems – after a local priest complained the comedian was too ‘vulgar’ to be honoured.

More than 6,500 people signed a petition requesting a section of West121st Street where Carlin grew up be renamed in his his memory.

But Rev. Raymond Rafferty, of Corpus Christi, and about 40 of his congregation protested the plan at a community meeting.

The priest said of Carlin: ‘His vulgarity is very strong, and that is not a good role model for children.’

He complained that if approved, the street sign would go up directly in front of the Catholic church’s school.

Comedian Kevin Bartini, who lives in the area, tried to argue the case – but admitted he found it difficult.

‘I have played some tough rooms in my day,’ he said, ‘but a room full of ladies who have never heard of George Carlin was among the more interesting.’

The chair of the district committee suggested Carlin’s supporters stop their campaign unless they can win over the church. Their grievances are said to include the contention that ‘George Carlin didn't live there, didn’t die there and didn’t do anything to help the neighbourhood.’

Although he died in California, Carlin did live on West 121 Street for 20 years – and even went to the Corpus Christi School.

He enjoyed his time there, once saying: ‘In the 1940s, I attended a school still in existence:  Corpus Christi in New York City.  It was not a typical Catholic grammar school education. For one thing, we had boys and girls together.  We did not wear uniforms.  The desks were all movable.  And, there were no report cards - no grades or report cards of any kind.  It was a garden; it was a place that let me flower.’

The pro-Carlin campaigners said: ‘We are happy with the results so far and are planing our next moves.’

Published: 9 Oct 2011