A useless tidbit: When subbing at Denfeld and killing time by perusing the historical display on the school and the man, I saw the picture of Denfeld's house, which is just down the street from me in Hunter's Park. Very unassuming. Whoever put together the display did a fine job (but it needs to be dusted).

Here is the script from Mayor Ness' speech:

Congratulations to all of those who have had a part in the impressive 100-year history of Denfeld High School. To the administrators, teachers, staff and students who have graced these halls: You should be proud of your role in the shaping what is Denfeld High School.

While the building is beautiful and historic, everyone in this room understands that Denfeld High School is not defined exclusively by the physical structure of this building. It is rather the cumulative spirit, history, excellence and achievement of those who have played a role in the school's history that define what this school is and what Denfeld means to each of us and to the City of Duluth.

Allow me this ...

I am the fourth generation in my family to go to Central High School -- I was hoping that my children would have the opportunity to be the fifth generation. And I have to admit that it breaks my heart that the tradition of that great school will not continue. It is, quite honestly, devastating -- and I know that those in this auditorium could imagine my feelings.

However, the idea that we should strip Denfeld Senior High of it's identity and it's history and it's name would be nothing short of a travesty. 

As a Central grad losing my legacy, it would add injury to insult to strip away the tradition of the Denfeld name. There's no consolation in that -- there's no comfort in that. In fact it is just the opposite.

For those in the Central part of the city who are lucky enough to go to Denfeld in the future -- they should have the privilege of going to Denfeld High School and have the opportunity to contribute to the history that we celebrate today.

I call upon the Superintendent and the School Board to reject the mere notion of taking away the Denfeld name.

And most certainly, do not do it in the name of Central students and Central graduates. Not in my name. Not in the name of my classmates.

We are first and foremost Duluthians, and we share the pride in the history of Denfeld High School now and Denfeld High School for many, many years to come.

Thank you for having me. Congratulations and God bless.