Judah Maccabee to host Olive Press Workshop at Blue Ash Kroger

CINCINNATI, OH — This year, Chanukah shopping turns into a family adventure with Chabad Jewish Center at the Blue Ash Kroger. The Olive Press Workshop, hosted by Judah Maccabee, will be staging two free presentations in the kosher department at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14.

“The Olive Press Workshop demonstrates the process used by the Maccabbees to refine olive oil for the Temple Menorah,” explained Rabbi Berel Cohen, director of youth and family programming at Chabad Jewish Center. “This workshop will make the family’s Chanukah experience so much more exciting. Come and see for yourself!”

Under the guidance of Judah Maccabee, participants will squeeze fresh olives, just like in the days of the Maccabees, then purify their oil with a modern-day centrifuge. After purifying the oil, attendees will make wicks out of cotton, which will be used with the freshly made oil in a menorah-lighting ceremony.

“This is a great opportunity to offer our Jewish customers a unique shopping experience this holiday season,” said Tim Schukman, manager at the new Blue Ash Kroger, which features an extensive kosher department.

The Olive Press Workshop is part of The Living Legacy series, which brings Judaism alive for children, teens and adults in Cincinnati through hands-on educational programs and workshops. The series is partially sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati.