Bandit or folk hero?

Historian Jennifer Zimmerman explores the life and legend of Joaquín Murrieta, one of California’s most captivating figures, at a History Happy Hour set for Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ainsley House in downtown Campbell.

Murrieta was a notorious bandido who ravaged California with his gang in the 1850s, stealing cattle and horses and robbing people of their gold and possessions. Californians were terrified of him, and Gov. John Bigler took drastic measures to end his reign of terror. Despite or because of this notoriety, nearly 100 locations across California bear his name. Zimmerman will discuss the man behind the legend.

Tickets are $25 at www.campbellmuseums.com.

Medical emergency prep

The Santa Clara County Fire Department is holding a free medical emergency preparedness class on Thursday, Aug. 29, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., in the Mary Campbell Room at the Campbell Community Center, 1 W. Campbell Ave.

Participants will learn how to recognize and report medical emergencies and what to do before help arrives, and how to be prepared with completed medical documents. The class will also explore resources that can help during a medical emergency.

Participants will get an overview of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Santa Clara County, and learn how to interact with a 911 dispatcher and how to text to 911. They’ll also learn about CPR and first aid certification.

This training class is open to individuals who live or work in Campbell and the other communities served by Santa Clara County Fire Department. For more information, visit http://sccfd.eventbrite.com.

Source: www.mercurynews.com