It's a long way from Sylacauga, Alabama to Manhattan, New York. But that's the journey taken by Caitlyn McTier.
Along the way, Caitlyn made stops in Tuscaloosa for Miss Tuscaloosa's Teen. And at the University of Alabama for a Bachelor's Degree. And at Birmingham's Samford University campus for the Miss Alabama Competition.
This weekend, Caitlyn competed against other brains and beauties of New York City. She was crowned 'Miss City of New York.'
Now, Caitlyn heads to the Miss New York State pageant, with the winner going on to compete on the Miss America stage. Will the state pageant be intimidating to Caitlyn? Why, no. This is her second trip there, and she was awarded second runner-up in 2023.
In Manhattan, Caitlyn McTier has been breathtakingly busy. By day, she works in sports marketing. The University of Alabama was a natural training ground for all things sports.
By night, she is an actress/producer of a podcast, "Uptown Girls." It opened on Sept. 7, 2023, and stars two twenty-something women showcasing their careers, dating, and personal adventures in The Big Apple: Caitlyn McTier and Abby Quammen.
Athletics and personal training are also prominent in the busy life of Caitlyn McTier. She trained for and completed the New York Marathon in November 2023.
Caitlyn's humanitarian service began in Sylacauga and at the University of Alabama, and it went with her to New York. She volunteers in fighting hunger in Manhattan's upper-west-side. Only there, it is called "food insecurity."
Caitlyn is equally at home in Manhattan or back home in Alabama. Her grandfather, Jessie Cleveland, was the long-time Mayor of Sylacauga. Her mother, Pamela McTier, is so many things to Central Alabama folks that it would require its own entire article.
Pamela McTier is now the Career Coach for the Jefferson County Board of Education. She was previously an information specialist for Nemak, a large employer in Odena, Alabama. (Bet you don't know where that is. Odena is a suburb of Sylacauga.)
From Sweet Home Alabama to the stages and sidewalks of New York.
1819 News will continue to follow native daughter Caitlyn McTier at the Miss New York State competition. And, maybe, just maybe, on the Miss America stage?
If I can -- make it there, I'll make it -- anywhere.
It's up to you, New York, New York. — Frank Sinatra
Jim Zeigler is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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