The Tehachapi Roots, Middle East Roads event held on August 7, 2025, featured author Heather Surls, who shared her unique experiences growing up in Tehachapi, California, and living in Jordan. The meeting began with Surls discussing the cultural differences she observed, particularly the novelty of drinking fountains for children from Jordan, as they are not common in many countries. She recounted a charming moment with her son, Adam, who struggled to use a drinking fountain during a visit to Sequoia National Park.

Surls emphasized the changes she has noticed in America since her family moved abroad, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. She expressed a desire to listen to diverse perspectives from friends and family in the U.S. without engaging in political debates, highlighting the importance of understanding and empathy in a divided society.

The discussion then shifted to Surls' reflections on her family back in Tehachapi. She acknowledged the challenges of staying informed about local issues while living in Jordan but reassured attendees that her family was doing well. Surls also shared excerpts from her book, which draw comparisons between her experiences in Tehachapi and Jordan. One chapter vividly describes her childhood memories of shepherding in Tehachapi and her later experiences with a Bedouin shepherd in Jordan, illustrating the stark contrasts and similarities between the two landscapes.

Surls noted that both Tehachapi and Amman share similar climates, often experiencing the same weather patterns, which surprised many of her Jordanian friends who associate California with beaches and Hollywood. She explained that her small-town upbringing in Tehachapi has shaped her identity and how she interacts with others, fostering a sense of community that resonates with people in Jordan.

The meeting concluded with Surls discussing the artwork featured in her book, including illustrations of local flora and fauna, which connect her experiences in both regions. The event provided a platform for Surls to share her story, bridging cultural gaps and fostering understanding between her two homes.