CCC Hosts Free Talks on Local History and Social Issues

Presentations to cover Battle of Valcour Island and common law marriage misconceptions

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:03pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph depicting a group of people gathered in a college lecture hall, with warm, hazy pools of light and color creating a contemplative and intimate atmosphere.The Clinton Community College Cultural Affairs Committee's free public programs offer a chance for the local community to engage with important historical and social issues.Plattsburgh Today

The Clinton Community College Cultural Affairs Committee will host two free public programs in April, one exploring the history of the Battle of Valcour Island and upcoming America 250 events, and another examining widespread misunderstandings surrounding common law marriage.

Why it matters

These talks provide the local community with opportunities to learn about important historical events and social issues impacting the region. The Battle of Valcour Island was a significant Revolutionary War battle that took place on Lake Champlain, while the common law marriage presentation aims to raise awareness about legal challenges facing long-term unmarried partners.

The details

On April 1, Geri Favreau, president of the Clinton County Historical Association and Museum, will present 'America 250 Commemoration' from noon to 1 p.m. in George Moore Hall. Favreau will discuss the history of the Battle of Valcour Island, the role of Benedict Arnold, and upcoming America 250 events. On April 22, artist and documentary filmmaker Ita Bullard will present 'Common Law Marriage Misconceptions' from noon to 1 p.m., examining legal issues surrounding long-term unmarried partnerships.

  • The Battle of Valcour Island took place in October 1776.
  • The 250th anniversary of the Battle of Valcour Island will be commemorated the weekend of October 9-11, 2026.
  • Geri Favreau's presentation is on April 1, 2026.
  • Ita Bullard's presentation is on April 22, 2026.

The players

Geri Favreau

President of the Clinton County Historical Association and Museum, and chair of the America 250 Committee for Clinton County.

Ita Bullard

Artist and documentary filmmaker who will present on common law marriage misconceptions.

Clinton Community College Cultural Affairs Committee

The committee organizing the free public programs on local history and social issues.

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What they’re saying

“The Battle of Valcour Island was a significant Revolutionary War battle that took place on Lake Champlain.”

— Geri Favreau, President of the Clinton County Historical Association and Museum

“Common law marriage is often misunderstood, and legal systems frequently fail to recognize the contributions of unmarried partners.”

— Ita Bullard, Artist and documentary filmmaker

What’s next

The 250th anniversary of the Battle of Valcour Island will be commemorated the weekend of October 9-11, 2026, with events throughout Clinton County.

The takeaway

These free public programs at Clinton Community College provide valuable opportunities for the local community to learn about important historical events and social issues impacting the region, fostering greater understanding and awareness.