Edythe Kerness

Before arriving in Miami in 1985, we lived in New York City and, before that, in the Washington, D.C. Area. Before that I lived in Union, N.J. and was President of B'nai B'rith Women of Union and involved in my temple, Temple Israel of Union.
I worked at the Jewish Federation of Central New Jersey where I held the position of Women's Division Director. I was the leader of several workshops on the role of Women's Divisions at conventions of the Council of Jewish Federations all over the country.
When we moved to Miami, we were invited, by the Rabbi, to attend Services at Temple Israel. The first time we attended we were warmly greeted but the best part of the experience was receiving another phone call from the Rabbi, saying, “I didn't mean that you should come only once.” That began a romance with Temple Israel that remains today.

I was employed by Temple Israel and my first responsibility was working on the Journal commemorating Cantor Bornstein's retirement. While there, an employee left and I sat down at her desk. I never got up. After 17 wonderful years of friendships and wonderful times, I retired. And then the real work for Temple Israel began. I was Sisterhood President, Temple Vice President of Programming and chaired many committees.

I was the proud recipient of the Or Zarua Award in 2008.

Now I am Vice President of Fund Raising and helping with the 90th Anniversary events and have been Vice President of Programming for the Temple.
Temple Israel is my family and I am proud to be part of the growth and excitement that is planned for this auspicious year.