Editors note: Originally the story mentioned that the Olomouc-Owensboro Mayoral exchange would not be feasible, however, this was incorrect and now the story properly reflects that the choir tour is not feasible.
In a Zoom call Wednesday, officials in Owensboro’s sister city of Olomouc, Czech Republic, said they spent what equates to roughly $80,000 on their visit this past summer for the Campanella Choir. With such a high cost, they said it’s not feasible to come to the country more than once every 3-5 years.
Even though the trip cost 2 million Korunas, Podlipská said they were very successful in raising funds — especially during the pandemic.
On the tour, they had roughly 20 kids that had come to the states and toured around 9 different destinations across the country during heir time.
Podlipská noted that the late Dr. Roger Murphy, who died in July, was a very integral part of the connection between Olomouc and Owensboro — and even in his passing and with the financial support issues, Olomouc still wants to keep connections with Owensboro.
“We believe that losing him doesn’t mean that the cooperation is over, and at the same time, you realize that something is not forever and that we should be grateful for new connections we are making. I’m grateful for the new people that are coming and falling in love with you and your city and your community,” Podlipská said.
She wagers that it would only be financially beneficial to do the experience every 3-5 years.
