Back on the Rock

75 years ago, 1943: One of the four Alcatraz prison escapees, shot in the water and presumed dead while swimming away, surrendered to sickness and hunger after hiding in an Alcatraz island cave for three days and voluntarily climbed back into the federal prison. Re-captured was Floyd Hamilton, 36, Texas badman.50 years ago, 1968: At 3 p.m. today the doors of the Sandusky office of the Ohio Bell Telephone Company are set to open and out will walk members of the Communications Workers of America. The union is going out on strike. The walkout will not greatly affect local or direct distance dialing, but may slow operator-assisted calls or repair and maintenance services.25 years ago, 1993: A federal jury convicted two police officers of violating the civil rights of black motorist Rodney King in his videotaped beating, bringing peace to a city where an earlier trial led to the nation's worst rioting in decades. Two other officers were acquitted.10 years ago, 2008: Inflation rose again last month, reflecting big jumps in the cost of energy and airline tickets. And the forecast is for even bigger energy-related increases to come, including the possibility of $4 per gallon gas by Memorial Day.