Russett/Maryland City
- Brenda Zeigler-Riley
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Local news covering the Russett and Maryland City areas
Catherine’s Restaurant Draws Crowds to Corridor Marketplace
Have you ever had Italian-Caribbean food? I recently had dinner at Catherine’s Restaurant, located in Corridor Marketplace. The restaurant was packed; however, my 6 pm reservation was honored. (I advise that reservations be made, especially if dining on weekends.)
The welcoming, curated atmosphere evoked memories of my fine dining experiences while vacationing in the Caribbean. The waitstaff was friendly and very attentive. The menu promised a “story of culture, creativity, and culinary connection.” And according to Catherine’s website, dishes are prepared “using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.”
The appetizers, from the rich velvety cream of crab soup with lump crab meat, or the crispy calamari served with marinara sauce, to the island spice plantain chips served with mango salsa and an avocado mousse, did not disappoint. One person in my party ordered the spaghetti alla vodka burrata and raved about the rich, house-made vodka cream sauce; another boasted about the savory red snapper with escovitch, a popular island-style, spicy, tangy Jamaican pickled vegetables. My grilled jerk chicken dinner with bold Jamaican spices, served with rice and peas, was delicious.
Donovan Vassell, the restaurant’s owner, created a memorable and positive experience as he welcomed guests. Catherine’s continues to receive rave reviews for its delicious food, good vibes, and live music. In my opinion, the sights, sounds, and delicious food are just what was needed in the area.
Russett Resident Dericka Francis Takes Humanitarian Efforts to Jamaica
Dericka Francis is a hero in every aspect of the word! She shared with me that she “likes helping people,” which is a humble understatement.
When she heard that the island of Jamaica had been hit by hurricane Melissa in late October 2025 with devastating impact, Dericka began organizing and collecting canned goods, clothing, and other items to donate. On January 2, 2026, she and a small group, mainly funded by her, traveled to Jamaica to provide aid in person. She was in Jamaica for 10 days and visited Montego Bay, Negril, and the St. Elizabeth Parish.
When asked about her trip, Dericka said the people were very appreciative. Upon her group’s arrival at St. Elizabeth Parish, the area most affected, “people expressed gratitude and requested provisions for neighbors who couldn’t reach my location.”
A native of Trinidad, Francis has been in the United States since she was nine years old. She grew up in New York and migrated to Maryland to attend college. For the past 30 years, she has called Maryland home and has lived in Russett for 20 years.
New Pavilion Makes Debut
Russett has added a new pavilion-type structure to provide a shaded area for residents to enjoy. It is located adjacent to the recently installed playground by the community pool.
Russett Library Offers Unique Programs for Spring
The Maryland City at Russett Library has some very special offerings coming up for people of all ages. Below are some highlights; for the full schedule, or for further information on events, go to https://www.aacpl.net/services/maryland-city-at-russett.
Meade High School Jazz Band Performance: Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month with live music performed by the talented students of the Meade High School Jazz Band. (April 25, 3–5 pm, all ages)
Babies in Bloom: Babies from birth to 18 months, along with a caring adult, are welcome to enjoy songs, rhymes, and playtime while building early literacy skills. A great way to get to know other families in your community! (May 4 and 11, June 8 and 15, 10:30-11:30 am)
Cardio Drumming: Come and try cardio drumming in this adults-only class. You can stand or sit while we tap, stretch, and move to music while drumming on large fitness balls. (April 30, 6:30–7 pm)
Worms Eat My Garbage! In this installment of Science Saturdays, we’ll explore the world of super-composting worms and learn how worms convert food waste into nutrient-rich compost. (May 9, 10:30–11:30 am, ages 6–10)
Pride Bracelets: Create your own bead bracelet to get ready for Pride Month. All supplies will be provided—just bring yourself! (June 6, 2–3 pm, kids ages 6–18)
Juneteenth family celebration: Learn about the history of Juneteenth through a story, and celebrate freedom, with family-friendly activities. (June 7, 6–7 pm, all ages)
Brenda Zeigler-Riley is a retired educator and entrepreneur with a marketing, public relations, and fundraising background. Please send information on Russett/Maryland City (historical pieces, stories from first responders, hometown memories, resident profiles, etc.) to russett.mdcinfo@gmail.com.
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