The first of 7 Americans to win the Miss Universe crown hails from Winnsboro, South Carolina. She bested 34 other delegates and survived a triple tie breaker with runner-up Martha Rocha of Brazil. One of the judges disclosed that it was Miss Brazil's "bulging hips" which cost her the crown although her face was said to have been "the most gorgeous in the contest". Still residing in Columbia, South Carolina, the ever popular Miriam remains on the go with her various activities as real estate agent and a fashion, bridal, and wedding consultant. She is married to Donald Upton and together they have two sons.
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