Kostan, Ricko honored in Lynn

LYNN – Former Superintendent Nicholas Kostan joined city Democratic Committee Leader Agnes Ricko in receiving the prestigious Chase-Hacker Award presented by the Lynn Museum and Historical Society Wednesday night.Five months into his retirement, Kostan is already enjoying his new, more relaxing life and says receiving the award is a kind reminder that his 37 years in the Lynn Public School Department made a difference in the lives of those he touched.”It is always nice to be honored by an institution like the Lynn Museum and Historical Society, that has done so much for the city,” Kostan said Tuesday. “To be considered for an award from an organization like that, especially after I have been out of the public eye, is an honor.”The annual award is named for founding president of the Lynn Museum, Phillip Chase, and advocate for the less fortunate Sallie Hacker. It is given out to a select few Lynn natives, one male and one female, who have dedicated their lives to the community.A 37-year veteran of the Lynn Public Schools, Kostan touched the lives of students as a teacher, vice principal and principal at both Breed Middle School and Classical High School.He served as superintendent from 2002 until retiring in January.Kostan says the history behind the award and the respected city leaders who have won in the past makes it flattering to even be considered for such an honor.”I have known Agnes Ricko for many years and it is nice to see her being recognized for all of the work that she does, too,” he said. “And you look at the other people they have honored – (former mayor) Tom Costin, David Solimine, (Sen.) Tom McGee – it is a good group there that has been honored, and it is just nice to be considered for that.”As his heir to the superintendent throne Catherine Latham puts her first budget together this spring, Kostan is keeping an eye on the happenings within the city and school department, even if he is not involved.”I just feel bad for the city and what is happening with the budget and the economy, it is bad all over,” he said.The annual courtyard ceremony drew a crowd of museum supporters, friends and family of the honorees, something that Kostan is glad to see in a time when the economy can be tough on organizations like the Museum and Historical Society.”I am happy to see the support for the museum, something like this helps them raise money for all the great things they do here,” he said. “It is good to see the Museum and Historical Society benefit from this.”