Sept. 27, 2025
LA CROSSE, Wis. — More than 700 people attended the premiere of the locally produced documentary “Spirit of the Driftless: Preserving Our Legacy” on Tuesday evening, filling the Viterbo University Fine Arts Center for a tribute to the Driftless Region and one of its late conservation champions.
The new film from the nonprofit Sustainable Driftless, Inc. builds on the success of its regional Emmy Award-winning predecessor, “Decoding the Driftless”. Created by a team of Emmy-winning filmmakers, the documentary is dedicated to George Howe, a founder of Sustainable Driftless, Inc., who led filming expeditions before his passing in February 2024.
Tim Jacobson, president of Sustainable Driftless, Inc. and a creator of the film, said the event was a fitting tribute to both the region and Howe.
“We were humbled and thrilled by the turnout and the audience response,” said Jacobson. “There were moments of laughter and moments of tears. It was a fitting tribute to our beautiful Driftless landscape and to George Howe, whose vision lives on through this work”.
The film guides audiences through the region’s unique heritage and natural beauty, featuring soaring raptors, rugged bluffs, quiet waters, ancient archaeological sites, and hidden caves. Jonas Stenstrom, the film’s director, noted the goal was to present a fresh look at the area.
“Our goal was to provide a new lens on the Driftless landscape,” said Stenstrom. “I hope viewers everywhere will come away with a much deeper appreciation for this one-of-a-kind region”.
The premiere included live piano music and remarks from Ryan Howe in tribute to his late father. After the screening, a Q&A session featured Jacobson and cast member Sophia Landis, followed by a reception where guests could take photos with a real Emmy statuette.
Jacobson emphasized the personal importance of completing the project after Howe’s death.
“It is a fitting tribute to George to finalize the film project he was so passionate about,” said Jacobson. “His spirit lives on through this film and the causes he championed”.
Sustainable Driftless, Inc. is a nonprofit organization focused on inspiring conservation and sustainable growth in the Driftless Region, which it describes as an epic natural and cultural treasure.
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