This month in history

It was 25 years ago when the 95,000-square-foot recreation center named after legendary basketball coach John Wooden opened its doors. Following the passage of a student fee referendum that included conditions requiring the establishment of a student majority oversight committee and a fundraising campaign, Coach Wooden agreed to have his name placed on a building that would be available to all students, not just intercollegiate athletes. Sitting at the heart of campus, the center offers students everything from strength and conditioning equipment to the Rock Wall, chair massages and personal trainers.

In commemoration of the first student-funded recreation facility of its kind, the John Wooden Center is giving away memorabilia every Wednesday in May. Celebrations culminate May 28 with an open house where you can visit sample classes and a fitness fair. A 25th anniversary program will run from 3-5 p.m. There will be grand prize drawings for round-trip plane tickets and iPod Nanos, speakers and refreshments. Visit www.recreation.ucla.edu for more information.