In this special episode of Up Close, host Casandra Eames reunites her last three guests: Zhengyuan Zhu, Jen Tipton, and Craig Kaufman, for a roundtable conversation about community, connection, and the threads that tie their stories together. Though they come from different backgrounds and walks of life, Zhengyuan, Jen, and Craig quickly find common ground in their shared experiences. From raising kids in Ames to supporting local theater, each of them brings a unique perspective on what it means to belong. They also reflect on their hopes for deeper, more meaningful connections between long-time residents and Iowa State University students, offering thoughtful insights on how to build bridges across generations and communities. It is a warm, engaging, and often surprising conversation about how we are all more connected than we think. If you'd like to be featured on Up Close, contact Casandra Eames in the City Manager’s Office or email her at Casandra.Eames@CityofAmes.org. The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not reflect the views of the City of Ames or its employees.