George Carlin Dies of Heart Failure

CNN News has reported that stand up comedian George Carlin passed away late yesterday afternoon, purportedly of heart failure. Although few details have been reported, it appears that Mr. Carlin died late Sunday afternoon after being rushed to a Santa Monica hospital complaining of chest pains. He was 71.

A political satirist and icon has now joined many others from the 60's era, and his ascerbic yet biting commentaries on the political blowhards and societal ills will be missed by many of us raised during the "flower power" eras and those many younger fans who were just getting the opportunity to appreciate Mr. Carlin's wit and political savvy.

Mr. Carlin was responsible for changing the media with his "Seven Dirty Words" stand up routine, and continual challenges to free speech and political commentary in his paid performances in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and the West primarily. With his passing, there are few of the rabble rouser hippies and social commentators left. One thing Mr. Carlin was not or could ever be accused of was "politically correct."

He will be sorely missed, especially this election year.