Great news on the race front: An African-American man, long known for his servile demeanor and non-threatening appearance, has attained a position of responsibility and respect in corporate America.

Uncle Ben, who first appeared in ads in 1946, is being reborn as Ben, an accomplished businessman with an opulent office, a busy schedule, an extensive travel itinerary and a penchant for sharing what the company calls his "grains of wisdom" about rice and life.

Uncle Ben, Board Chairman [NYT]

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