We all have heard of Mardi Gras, which literally means Fat Tuesday. Mardis Gras is the day before Ash Wednesday or the last day before the Christian season of Lent begins. Lent is traditionally a time of fasting and penance to await the Easter season. However, in my culture, as a Polish American, Fat Tuesday also marks Pączki (pronounced “punch-key”) Day.
Matt O’Malley enjoying a pączki.
If you do not live in the city of Chicago or another area of the U.S. with a large population of Polish immigrants, you may not know what a pączki is. They are delicious and comparable to a rich donut, fried to perfection and then filled with fruit or cream. (My favorite is strawberry.)
These treats were traditionally made and enjoyed right before Ash Wednesday as Lent marked 40 days of fasting and indulgent foods were not allowed. Historically, Polish people would use up the last of any indulgent foods and treat themselves before Lent began. My childhood memories encompass my mom treating my class with a few boxes of pączki for the students and my teacher to enjoy. Today, pączki can be found in many grocery stores. This weekend, if you happen to see them, you won’t regret purchasing a box. Try one (or many) of these treats, rooted in Polish tradition.
Matt’s dog, Gus, sneaking a taste of a pączki.
Contact Matt O'Malley at momalley@tresslerllp.com or by phone at (312) 627-4052.
About Matthew J. O'Malley
Matt is a member of the litigation practice group and advises his clients on litigation strategies, skillfully representing them through all phases of litigation. Matt has a track record of success in both bench and jury trials. He focuses on the client’s resolution goals, whether that is achieved through trial, settlement conference, mediation or arbitration. Matt serves his clients in a variety of complex litigated and non-litigated matters, including actions for breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, indemnity and contribution, professional malpractice, personal injury, general corporate, LGBT issues, employment discrimination and civil rights violations.
About Tressler LLP
Tressler LLP is a national law firm headquartered in Chicago, with eight offices located in five states - California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Tressler attorneys are experienced counselors and advocates who appear in state and federal courts, and in governmental proceedings, throughout the United States. Many Tressler attorneys devote their practice to the representation of the insurance industry in coverage analysis and resolution, litigation, underwriting consultation, product development, claims management and reinsurance. Tressler attorneys also represent clients in commercial litigation, employment, local government law, corporate transactions and intellectual property law. Contact us to learn more.
