Peoria Standard

(Peoria, IL) An honorary street naming was held on Monday, February 26 at Manual High School to honor retired art instructor and coach, Mr. Lawrence “Larry” Anthony Hendricks, Jr.   Mr. Hendricks taught at Manual High School from 1970 to 2004.  He served as the first boys' soccer head coach, head coach for both girls' basketball and girls' track and field, and head coach for boys' track and field. He also was the art department's lead teacher, department head, the founder of Manual's Afro Club, the advisor of the art club, and many acknowledge him as the “Godfather of Peoria's Talent” show. Mayor Ali presented a Mayoral Proclamation to acknowledge Mr. Hendricks’ achievements.

A beloved art teacher, Mr. Hendricks was also renowned as a coach.  He was instrumental in promoting Manual High Schools Girls’ Basketball team, and not only developed several players who earned honors from all-conference to all-American but the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association also recognized him as Coach of the Year for Girls’ Basketball.  He also led the Peoria Ramblers Summer Track and Field Team.  

The sign, titled “Larry Hendricks Street”, was proposed by the Manual Alumni Student Recognition Association. Located at Griswold and Lincoln, the former students stated, “This location runs behind the room where Mr. Hendricks molded young artists who made the world a more interesting place.”

Mr. Hendricks continues his artwork as a photographer from his studio at the Contemporary Arts Center where he has been a resident artist for the past fifteen years.

A short program accompanied today’s street naming.  In addition to Mayor Ali, speakers included Reverend Marlon Young, Tanya Adams, former athletes, and family.  A video of the event will be available tomorrow on the City of Peoria YouTube page.

Original source can be found here.