"What's Working in Cities'' is a regular series of stories produced by Issue Media Group publications, including 83 Degrees Media, that features people and organizations that are driving change in urban communities. From Campus Martius in Detroit, which now attracts a million visitors yearly, to Pittsburgh's lively Market Square to Tampa's emerging Riverwalk and St. Petersburg's Beach Drive, the focus is on placemaking and public places that are not only well-designed but also meaningful.

83 Degrees Media kicks off the "Not Your Average Speakers'' series Oct. 20 with a panel discussion at the Jaeb Theater in downtown Tampa that will focus on "what's working in cities,'' a continuation of an ongoing story theme as we help tell the Tampa Bay region's economic success stories featuring talent, innovation, diversity and environment or sense of place. The event is free and open to the public. To RSVP, follow this link.

The four-year-old robotics program at Brooksville's Nature Coast Technical High School has kids immersed in the world of science and technology. These students aren't just making gadgets for competition; they're learning essential leadership and team building skills that will help them stand out in a competitive job market.