In this episode of The Break Room, Assistant City Manager Reuben Franklin shares details about the City of Saint Augustine’s 2026 Citizens Academy. He and host Melissa Wissel walk through the six-week program’s sessions, highlighting hands-on experiences with public safety, utilities, planning, and new conservation initiatives. The conversation also includes updates on major city projects, including the Broudy's parking garage and King Street improvements.

2.17.26  |  Environmental Project Engineer Marcus Pinson joins us to discuss two major capital improvement projects currently impacting the City of St. Augustine. Marcus provides updates on the recent relocation of the iconic Bridge of Lions statues ahead of the upcoming seawall replacement project, as well as infrastructure work in the Flagler Model Land neighborhood that will close part of Sevilla Street for an extended period. Listen now.

2.10.26  | In Part Two of a two-part episode, Melissa Wissel continues her conversation with Charles Ellis, President of the Fort Mose Historical Society, as he reflects on his journey to St. Augustine and the importance of preserving Black history. Ellis discusses the impact of the Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Festival and the Flight to Freedom reenactment, highlighting how these events help tell the story of America’s first free Black settlement.

2.3.26  |  In Part One of a two-part episode of The Break Room, Charles Ellis, President of the Fort Mose Historical Society, reflects on Black History Month, his journey to Saint Augustine, and his work preserving the powerful history of Fort Mose. Ellis shares what it meant to become the first Black store manager in JCPenney’s history and explains how the Flight to Freedom reenactment brings this often-overlooked story to life. Tune in now.

X Pellicer joins this week’s episode of The Break Room to reflect on his retirement after nearly fifteen years with the City. As the City’s Mobility Manager, X shares highlights from his career and discusses key projects he helped lead during his time at the City. He also talks about what retirement means for him as he closes this chapter.

1.20.26  |  This week on The Break Room, we’re joined by Assistant City Manager Reuben Franklin. Reuben gives us an inside look at major upcoming City projects, including the seawall project and the relocation of the lions. Tune in to learn more!

1.13.26  |  Mark Hartley, Streets and Grounds Manager for the City of St. Augustine, joins The Break Room to reflect on the recently concluded 2025 to 2026 Nights of Lights season. He shares insight into the behind the scenes work of coordinating city crews, installing and maintaining lights, decorations, and the holiday tree, and also discusses Arbor Day and how the city prepares for the annual celebration.

1.6.26  |  This week on The Break Room, we’re joined by Police Chief Jennifer Michaux for her final episode before retirement. She looks back on her years of service, shares insights from this season of Nights of Lights, and discusses how the department will continue managing major events in the years ahead.

12.30.25  |  This week on The Break Room, we’re joined by Jordan Neisler, Environmental Compliance Inspector. It’s Jordan’s first time on the show, and she’s sharing all about Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG), the wastewater treatment plant, and the upcoming post‑holiday recycling event. Listen now to learn how you can take part!

12.23.25  |  This week on The Break Room, we’re joined by Jacob Webber, Grants Administration Coordinator. He shares some of the projects he completed this year like St. Francis House and the lighthouse park boat ramp and gives us a glimpse into what’s ahead. Tune in!