On this episode of Open Friday, host Rhina Valentin is joined by the Director of Development of the Bronx Tourism Council, Julius Drake, here to discuss Bronx Week 2026. Then, the Bronx Vegan Bazaar is back, and today we are highlighting Chef Gigi Lawrence, founder of RastaRant, here to talk about her Caribbean-infused vegan cuisine. After that, actor, educator, and producer Victor Cruz is here to discuss his new role in the hit Broadway play The Fear of 13. And finally, our Open Artist Spotlight shines on hip-hop artist, producer, and engineer, July Quin, who closes out the show performing his song "Champion."

OPEN is BronxNet’s premier weekday magazine show, bringing you the heartbeat of the Bronx and beyond. Join hosts Dr. Bob Lee (Mondays), Daren Jaime (Wednesdays), and Rhina Valentin (Fridays) for an essential mix of local news, civic engagement, and world-class culture. From hard-hitting conversations with community leaders to exclusive performances by rising stars in arts and entertainment, OPEN is your daily window into the stories and people shaping our borough.

On this episode of OPEN, Jimmy Carbone, Founder of Food Karma NYC and Producer of Brisket King NYC, discusses the 14th annual Brisket King NYC celebration. Then, Allison Cuesta Tardio, Development & Communications Specialist at Anthos|Home, breaks down New York City’s housing voucher crisis, explaining the barriers families face and the innovative solutions helping more New Yorkers secure permanent housing. Next, Gia Mead, Founder of UallNatural, along with Adele Stewart, Co-Founder and Licensed Cosmetologist, share some products and the journey into natural hair and scalp care. Finally, Tené Howard, Executive Director, and Marissa Hatten, Senior Director of Strategic Advancement at Sadie Nash Leadership Project, discuss the work empowering young women and gender-expansive youth of color and the expansion of their Summer Institute to the Bronx.

OPEN is BronxNet’s premier weekday magazine show, bringing you the heartbeat of the Bronx and beyond. Join hosts Dr. Bob Lee (Mondays), Daren Jaime (Wednesdays), and Rhina Valentin (Fridays) for an essential mix of local news, civic engagement, and world-class culture. From hard-hitting conversations with community leaders to exclusive performances by rising stars in arts and entertainment, OPEN is your daily window into the stories and people shaping our borough.

OPEN Monday host Doctor Bob Lee sits down with husband and wife team Rob and Sharon Hoskins, Co-founders of Hoskins Life and Legacy Planning, P.C., who highlight the vital estate planning services and resources they provide to Black and Brown communities. Then, Auburn Chandler, Actor, reflects on his journey as a mainstay in the entertainment industry and spotlights upcoming film projects. Orange, Connecticut native singer and songwriter Chadwick shares his passion for music and spotlights his debut release. Yadi Garcia, Director of Programs, Corbin Hill Food Project, speaks about how her organization is bridging the food equity gap for black and brown farmers and communities. Prof. Michael Bacon, Associate Professor of Music, Lehman College, and Handal Abdelrahim, Co-producer of Bronx Beat Week, previews the annual CUNY Bronx Beat Battle competition.

OPEN is BronxNet’s premier weekday magazine show, bringing you the heartbeat of the Bronx and beyond. Join hosts Dr. Bob Lee (Mondays), Daren Jaime (Wednesdays), and Rhina Valentin (Fridays) for an essential mix of local news, civic engagement, and world-class culture. From hard-hitting conversations with community leaders to exclusive performances by rising stars in arts and entertainment, OPEN is your daily window into the stories and people shaping our borough.