This just in:
The "old guy in the NYC park" you are referring to was Joe Ades (1933–2009), famously known as the "Gentleman Peeler" or "Mr. Peeler." He was a legendary British street merchant who became an iconic figure in New York City by selling Swiss-made metal potato peelers. He attracted huge crowds with his charming British accent, demonstrating how to use the metal peeler on potatoes and carrots.The Success: Despite selling a low-cost item, Ades was highly successful. He lived in a Park Avenue apartment, funded by the proceeds of his street sales.His Legacy: Joe Ades passed away in 2009, but his daughter, Ruth Ades-Laurent, took over the spot to continue the tradition for a time.He was often featured in newspapers and even in a Vanity Fair article, highlighting his unique status as a "gentleman gra