Tiger Cardarella, a mob member in Kansas City during the 1960s to the early 1980s, ran a successful record store named Tiger’s Records, which became a front for fencing stolen property. Alongside professional boosters like William Kirkpatrick and Ray Bowman, Cardarella facilitated the sale of stolen record albums and other goods, offering discounts and maintaining a popular reputation. In the 1960s, Cardarella and Felix Ferina attempted to execute a government witness but failed, leading to headlines and Ferina’s promotion within the mob. Kirkpatrick and Bowman, part of the Trenchcoat Robbers team, collaborated with Cardarella, who provided them with shopping lists and became a sought-after partner due to his discretion and meticulous practices. Bowman, known for his extravagant lifestyle and survivalist tendencies, lived lavishly while participating in boosting activities, utilizing specially designed outfits to conceal stolen goods.
[We see a bustling street scene in Kansas City in the 1970s, with a sign reading "Tiger's Records" hanging over a storefront. Inside, Anthony "Tiger" Cardarella stands behind the counter, surrounded by shelves of vinyl records. William Kirkpatrick and Ray Bowman enter the store, wearing oversized pants and trench coats.]
Kirkpatrick: Hey Tiger, got some fresh goods for ya!
Bowman: Top-notch albums, as promised.
Panel 2:
[Tiger, looking shrewd, inspects the albums Kirkpatrick and Bowman present to him. His eyes light up with excitement.]
Tiger: Ah, you boys never disappoint! The latest releases, always discounted. You're my golden geese!
Kirkpatrick: Gotta keep the tunes flowing, Tiger. And the profits rolling.
Bowman: Plus, your store's the hippest spot in town!
Panel 3:
[Tiger chuckles, handing over a wad of cash to Kirkpatrick and Bowman. As they leave the store, Tiger waves them off with a grin.]
Tiger: Remember, boys, keep it discreet. We're all in this together. And let's keep those record sleeves full and those pockets deeper!
Kirkpatrick: You got it, Tiger! We're the kings of the record racket!
Bowman: Long live Tiger's Records--and the boosters!