Good post, but a few items need clarification.

Buster did not control gambling on both sides of the river. Wortman controlled southern illinois, without question. The St Louis side of the river was controlled by the Italians. Wortman and the StL family had a relatively good relationship albeit one that was tested at times. There were turf battles over gambling and slot machines. Recall that Giordano, Lopiparo and Vitale had Anthony Novelty and Vending and Anthony Discount in St Louis that conrolled slot machines, pinball and vending machines.

Wortman's crew had control of Local 42 for years.

Wortman's crew was protected by the Chicago Outfit. It was a source of conflict between Chicago and St Louis but a peace was reached and maintained until both organizations self destructed in the late 70's and early 80's. Stoneking testified against and virtually put an end to the old Wortman organization.

B&H Vending was owned by Ted Wortman, Franks brother and was the company that had vending machines and slot machines in place on the east side in southern Illinois. Interestingly, it was later owned by Thomas Venezia, who also used it for illegal gambling.

I will try to post of few pictures related to Buster in separate posts.