[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 44 (Tuesday, April 15, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E664]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN HONOR OF MR. BENJAMIN EISENSTADT, FOUNDER OF CUMBERLAND PACKING 
                                 CORP.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES E. SCHUMER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 15, 1997

  Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of a great man, Mr. 
Benjamin Eisenstadt, founder of the Cumberland Packing Corp.
  I wish to honor him today not because he began what is now a 
successful company, but instead because he was, and remains, the 
example of a model employer who earned the admiration, respect, and 
loyalty of his employees. His legacy remains in these times when 
corporate downsizing has become the norm, and hardworking, loyal 
employees have become disposable commodities. The company he started is 
now described as a ``family business that tries to treat its workers 
like family'' by the New York Times. Mr. Eisenstadt's belief was that 
the workers do matter and business decisions should take them, and 
their families, into account.
  It is often said that these qualities have long been lacking in 
corporate America. I submit to you that they are not, but only that we 
have overlooked them by focusing on wealth over character. Mr. 
Eisenstadt showed us all that it was, and still is, possible to build a 
successful business without sacrificing your employees. His company 
still provides good jobs with livable wages to its workers. In exchange 
Cumberland has their support and undying loyalty. His method was 
simple, people are your first and most important resource: Treat them 
well. I am certain that Marvin, his son, will continue this honorable 
legacy.
  I wish for my colleagues to join me today in saluting this fine and 
good man, Mr. Benjamin Eisenstadt. Thank you, Mr. Eisenstadt, for 
showing us that the way of the future is not less, but more. More 
compassion, more opportunity, and more respect for working men and 
women.

                          ____________________