Craig Melvin’s Columbia Homecoming Tour
Columbia shone on national TV this week as Hootie & the Blowfish played in the background during the TODAY show’s “Homecoming” series. Host Craig Melvin explored his hometown, Soda City, accompanied by his brother Ryan.
Barber Shop Visit
The first stop was King’s Barber Shop on Main Street, where Craig routinely gets fresh cuts from Tremaine whenever he’s in town. They chatted about sports and how much the Capital City has evolved.
Sentimental School Visit
Craig and Ryan revisited St. John Preparatory School, their alma mater, which was founded by A’ja Wilson’s grandfather in 1971. Craig became emotional exploring his old classroom and read a book to current students.
Lunch with Family
For lunch, they enjoyed Cola’s classic Lizard’s Thicket with their mother, Betty Jo Melvin, sharing family memories over traditional meat and three dishes and sweet tea.
Finlay Park Walk
The brothers toured the newly renovated Finlay Park, where the fountain is running again. Mayor Daniel Rickenmann joined them to preview the $24 million renovation and discussed plans to double downtown Columbia’s population. Craig tried out the new playground slide that runs down the hill.
Evening at Lula Drake Wine Parlour
The day ended at the James Beard award-winning Lula Drake Wine Parlour. They toasted “the new Columbia” with a Paper Plane cocktail made with locally owned Forbidden Bourbon.
“The new Columbia” — toast shared at Lula Drake Wine Parlour.
Author’s summary: Craig Melvin’s heartfelt tour of Columbia highlights the city’s growth, cherished local spots, and family ties that connect past and present.