View work Documentary · 2021
40 Years of Friendship
Director · Cinematographer · Drone Cinematographer · Editor
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Kelowna and Kasugai mark 45 years as sister cities
Kelowna and Kasugai are marking 45 years as sister cities in 2026. The City of Kelowna is sharing 40 Years of Friendship, the 2021 short documentary directed, photographed and edited by James Alton.
Forty-five years since 1981.
Kelowna and Kasugai, in Aichi Prefecture, became sister cities in 1981. The relationship has supported cultural exchange, education and connections between residents and community organizations across the Pacific.
The City of Kelowna's current sister-cities page marks the 45th anniversary and says a commemorative quilt will be shown at locations around Kelowna.
The exchange is active in 2026.
On June 28, the Tokai Japan Canada Society welcomed more than 150 guests to a Canada Day celebration in Kasugai. The event marked the 45th anniversary, and Kelowna Friendship Ambassador Maya Courtney delivered a message from Kelowna's mayor.
A July update from Kasugai also records participants and accompanying members reviewing the itinerary for a visit to Kelowna.
A film for the fortieth year.
40 Years of Friendship was released in 2021 for the relationship's 40th anniversary. James directed and edited the documentary and served as cinematographer and drone cinematographer.
The film moves through Kasugai Gardens, civic voices and archival photographs. It follows milestones including the 1983 naming of Kelowna Boulevard in Kasugai and the 1987 opening of the gardens in downtown Kelowna. The 40 Years of Friendship project page has the complete film credit.
Watch 40 Years of Friendship.
Watch the complete documentary below.
For current events and ways to take part, visit the Kelowna-Kasugai Sister City Association.
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