Reconnection with her roots was top of mind for Christina Burke, an occupational therapist at Learning Through Play Pre-K Center in the Bronx, at the annual UFT Irish Heritage Committee Celebration. Burke, a U.S. citizen from New Jersey, is also a newly minted Irish citizen; her Irish grandfather made her eligible for dual citizenship. “I love how the UFT supports many cultures,” she said as she celebrated with about 50 others at UFT headquarters on Feb. 5. The committee presented the UFT Irish Heritage Achievement Award to Richard Niccolich, a physical education teacher at PS 174 in Rego Park, Queens, who plays the bagpipes at union events. Attendees were treated to his musical skill, as well as enjoyed remarks from City Council Member Virginia Maloney and stories from playwright John McDonagh. Said UFT Irish Heritage Committee co-Chair Dennis Gault: “The Irish are part of the mosaic that makes up New York and our union, and that makes our city work.”