Newberry, South Carolina is a small city located in the central part of the state. It has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century when European settlers first arrived in the area. One aspect of Newberry's history that often goes overlooked is its connection to pontoon boats. Pontoon boats have been used for centuries as a means of transportation and recreation on bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. They are flat-bottomed vessels that rely on buoyancy provided by pontoons or tubes attached to either side of the boat. These types of boats can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as China and Greece where they were used for fishing and transportation. In Newberry, pontoon boats played an important role in both commerce and leisure activities. The Saluda River runs through the heart of Newberry County, providing easy access to nearby towns for trade and travel purposes. In the early days, before bridges were built over the river, farmers would use pontoon ferries to transport their goods across it. As time went on, pontoon boats became more popular among recreational users in Newberry. With its abundant natural resources including lakes and rivers, residents began using these vessels for fishing trips or simply cruising around with friends and family. The calm waters also made them ideal for water skiing or tubing activities. The rise in popularity of pontoon boats led to local businesses offering rental services for those who did not own one themselves but still wanted to enjoy a day out on the water. This industry flourished during summer months when tourists flocked to Lake Murray just outside of Newberry city limits. In 1966, Bennington Pontoons was established in Elkhart County Indiana by Earl Bentz Sr., his wife Margaret "Pat" Bentz along with their sons Ron & Bill Bentz sold aluminum pontoons manufactured under license from C.E White Company (later renamed White Aluminum) by the White family in Cassopolis, Michigan. The company's initial success led to expansion across the country and eventually to Newberry, South Carolina. In 1970, Bennington Pontoons opened a production facility in Newberry County that would become their flagship location. With its prime location near Lake Murray and skilled workforce, this factory quickly became one of the top manufacturers of pontoon boats in the nation. As demand for pontoons continued to grow, so did the local economy. Suppliers and dealerships sprung up around Newberry providing materials and services for these boats. This also created job opportunities for residents who were able to work at these businesses or directly for Bennington Pontoons. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Bennington Pontoons expanded its product line to include larger models with more luxurious features such as plush seating, sound systems, and even mini-kitchens. These upgrades attracted a wider range of customers including those looking for high-end party boats or retirement homes on water. Today, Bennington Pontoons remains a thriving business in Newberry County with over 500 employees working at their main plant alone. They continue to innovate and improve upon their designs while staying true to their roots as pioneers of the modern pontoon boat industry. The impact that pontoon boats have had on Newberry's history cannot be overstated. From humble beginnings as ferries used by farmers crossing rivers to luxury vessels enjoyed by tourists from all over the country, they have played an integral role in shaping both commerce and leisure activities in this small southern city. Moreover, they have brought economic growth and prosperity to a community that was once reliant solely on agriculture. Today, Newberry is known not only for its rich history but also as a hub for recreational boating thanks in large part to pontoon boats. In addition to being an important aspect of local history, pontoon boats also hold a special place in the hearts of many Newberry residents. For generations, families have gathered on these vessels to create cherished memories and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. The city even hosts an annual "Pontoon Fest" celebration where boat owners come together to show off their prized possessions and participate in various activities such as parades and races. This event not only brings the community closer together but also attracts visitors from neighboring cities who want to experience the fun and camaraderie that comes with owning a pontoon boat. In conclusion, pontoon boats have played a significant role in shaping Newberry's history since its early days. From being used for transportation by farmers to becoming a symbol of leisure for residents and tourists alike, they have left an indelible mark on this small southern city. And with companies like Bennington Pontoons continuing to thrive in Newberry, it is clear that these vessels will remain an important part of its future as well.
Pontoon is a popular card game that originated in the United Kingdom and is also commonly known as "Twenty-One" or "Vingt-et-Un". It is a comparing card game between one or more players and a dealer, where each player competes against the dealer rather than against other players. The objective of pontoon is to get as close to 21 points without going over, while still having a higher hand than the dealer. The History of Pontoon The exact origins of pontoon are not clear, but it has been traced back to several early variations of gambling games played in Europe. One possible ancestor of pontoon is an Italian game called “Sette e Mezzo” (Seven and Half), which was first mentioned in literature in the late 16th century. This game had similar rules where players tried to reach seven-and-a-half points without going over. Another possible predecessor of pontoon was a French card game called “Vingt-un” (Twenty-One), which became popular during the 18th century aristocratic circles. In this version, only two cards were dealt, and players could bet on who would have the better hand. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century when pontoon started gaining popularity in England. It was often played by sailors on ships during long voyages at sea. The name "pontoon" comes from this time period when sailors used wooden planks (called pontoons) as makeshift tables for playing cards. Over time, different versions of pontoon emerged with varying rules and names such as “Stud Poker”, “Blackjack”, and “One-and-Thirty”. However, it wasn’t until Edward O’ Thorp’s book ‘Beat The Dealer’ published in 1962 that blackjack gained widespread recognition across casinos worldwide. In Australia, there exists another variation called Australian Pontoon which differs significantly from traditional blackjack/pontoon due to its unique rules. In Australian Pontoon, the dealer does not receive a hole card and is forced to stand on a soft 17. Furthermore, players have the option of doubling down after splitting their hand. The Rules of Pontoon Pontoon is played with anywhere between two to eight standard decks of cards, depending on the casino. The game starts with each player placing their bet in front of them before any cards are dealt. After bets are placed, the dealer deals two cards face-up to each player and themselves. In traditional pontoon, one of the dealer's cards will be dealt face-down (known as "the hole card"), while in Australian pontoon no hole card is used at all. The objective for players is to get as close to 21 points without going over while also trying to beat the dealer’s hand. Face cards such as kings, queens, and jacks are worth 10 points each; an ace can either count as one or eleven points depending on what works better for a particular hand; all other numbered cards represent their respective values. If a player gets exactly 21 points from their first two cards (an ace plus a ten-point card), they have “pontoon” and immediately win double their initial bet unless it’s tied by the dealers’ own pontoon – which means that both hands push back or end up equaling zero net gain/loss for both parties involved). Players can choose from several different actions during gameplay including hitting (taking another card) if they feel like they need more points; standing (not taking any more cards); doubling down (doubling your initial bet but only receiving one additional card); splitting pairs into separate hands if you’re dealt two identical starting hands; or buying insurance against potential losses caused by getting hit with blackjack/pontoon at some point later during gameplay. Winning Strategies To play successfully in pontoon requires strategy and skill. One of the most important things to remember is to always hit on a hand that totals 14 or less, as there is no risk of busting (going over 21). It's also beneficial to stand on a hand totaling between 15 and 20, as these are strong hands that have a high chance of beating the dealer. Another key strategy in pontoon is knowing when to double down. This can be very profitable if done correctly but can also lead to significant losses if done at the wrong time. Typically, players should only consider doubling down when they have an initial hand total between nine and eleven points. Splitting pairs can also be a winning strategy in pontoon, especially when dealt two identical face cards like kings or queens. By splitting them into separate hands, you increase your chances of getting closer to 21 with each hand and potentially beating the dealer twice. It’s worth noting that while counting cards may work in other variations of blackjack/pontoon, it has little effect in traditional pontoon due to the use of multiple decks. Conclusion Pontoon continues to be one of the most popular card games worldwide, thanks partly due its simplicity and fast-paced gameplay. While it has evolved and taken different forms throughout history, its core objective remains unchanged – reach as close to 21 points without going over while still having a higher hand than the dealer. With its rich history and numerous strategies involved, pontoon will continue being enjoyed by players for many years to come. Whether played casually among friends or competitively at casinos around the world, this game offers endless entertainment for all who play it.
Newberry, South Carolina has a rich history that dates back to the early 1700s. The town was originally settled by German, Swiss, and Dutch immigrants who were seeking religious freedom and fertile land for farming. As the settlers began to establish themselves in Newberry, they needed a way to transport goods and people across the numerous rivers and streams that crisscrossed the area. This led to the development of pontoon boats as an essential mode of transportation. Pontoon boats are flat-bottomed boats made up of two or more pontoons (or cylindrical tubes) attached to a deck platform. They were initially used as ferryboats for crossing rivers and streams but soon became popular for fishing and recreational activities. In Newberry, pontoon boats played a crucial role in connecting different parts of the town. The most notable pontoon boat in Newberry's history is known as "Old Molly." It was built around 1825 by John Martin Kinard on Broad River near what is now called Kinards Bridge Road. Old Molly had two large wooden pontoons with planks laid over them for passengers to stand on while being pulled across the river using ropes tied between trees on either side. Over time, more sophisticated versions of pontoon boats were developed with better stability and capacity. In addition to their use as ferries, these new pontoon boats also served as transportation for goods such as cotton from plantations along the riverbanks. In the late 1800s, steam-powered paddlewheelers replaced many of these traditional hand-pulled pontoon ferries in Newberry County. However, smaller hand-operated versions continued to be used well into the mid-20th century. With improved technology came changes in how people used pontoon boats in Newberry. They became popular among fishermen due to their stability and spacious decks which provided ample room for equipment like rods and tackle boxes. Today, pontoon boating is a popular recreational activity in Newberry, with many residents owning their own boats for leisurely cruises or fishing trips. The town also hosts an annual "Pontoon Palooza" event where participants decorate their pontoon boats and parade down the river. In addition to its practical uses, pontoon boats have become an iconic symbol of Newberry's history and culture. They are featured prominently in local artwork, festivals, and even the town logo. In conclusion, pontoon boats have played a significant role in shaping the history of transportation and recreation in Newberry, South Carolina. From humble beginnings as hand-pulled ferries to modern-day leisure vessels, these flat-bottomed boats continue to be an important part of the town's identity and economy.
Newberry, South Carolina is a quaint and charming city located in the heart of the state. Nestled between Columbia and Greenville, it is often referred to as the "City of Friendly Folks" due to its welcoming community and small-town atmosphere. With a population of just over 10,000 residents, Newberry may seem like an unassuming town at first glance. However, upon further exploration, one can discover a rich history, thriving economy, and vibrant culture that make it truly unique. History: The area now known as Newberry was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Catawba. In 1750, European settlers began to arrive and establish plantations in the region. One such plantation was owned by John Coate who named his land "Newberry" after his hometown in England. In 1789, Newberry County was officially formed with Newberry serving as its county seat. The town quickly grew due to its prime location along major trade routes between Charleston and western North Carolina. By the mid-19th century, cotton became the main crop grown in Newberry's fertile soil which led to economic prosperity for many local farmers. During the Civil War, Newberry played a significant role as a supply depot for Confederate troops due to its railroad connections. After suffering damage from Union soldiers during Sherman's March to Sea in 1865, Newberry slowly rebuilt itself into a bustling commercial center once again. Economy: Today, agriculture still plays an important role in Newberry's economy but has diversified into other industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Some notable companies that have established roots here include Komatsu Mining Corp., Samsung Electronics America Inc., Kraft Heinz Company Distribution Center,and West Fraser Timber Co Ltd. The city also boasts several successful locally-owned businesses including boutique shops,breweries,and restaurants that draw visitors from all over South Carolina.With strong support from both residents and tourists, these businesses continue to thrive and contribute to the local economy. Culture: Newberry may be a small city,but it has no shortage of cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike. The Newberry Opera House, built in 1882, is a prominent landmark that hosts a variety of concerts,theater productions,and other events throughout the year. This beautifully restored venue is also home to an art gallery featuring works from local artists. In addition to its historic sites and buildings, Newberry embraces its southern charm with annual festivals such as Oktoberfest and Pork in the Park BBQ Festival which celebrate food,music,and community. The town's close proximity to Lake Murray also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation including fishing, boating,and hiking. Education: Education has always been highly valued in Newberry.The city is served by the School District of Newberry County which consists of six elementary schools,two middle schools,and two high schools.One notable institution within this district is Mid-Carolina High School which was recognized as one of America's Best High Schools by U.S.News & World Report in 2018.Additionally,a branch campus of Piedmont Technical College provides post-secondary education opportunities for students seeking technical training or associate degrees. Conclusion: In conclusion,Newberry,South Carolina may seem like just another small town on a map,but upon closer examination,it reveals itself as a vibrant community with deep roots and endless potential.Its rich history,economic growth,cultural offerings,and dedication to education make it an attractive place for people from all walks of life.Whether you are looking for quiet country living or exciting city adventures,new experiences await you in "The City Of Friendly Folks."
Pontoon, also known as Twenty-One or Blackjack, is a popular card game that has been played for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the early 17th century when it first appeared in Europe. Throughout its long history, pontoon has evolved and adapted to different cultural influences and gaming trends. Origins of Pontoon The exact origins of pontoon are unclear, but many historians believe that it originated from a French game called Vingt-et-Un (Twenty-One). This game was popular among French aristocrats in the 18th century and involved trying to reach a hand total of 21 without going over. Another theory suggests that pontoon may have originated from an Italian card game called Seven-and-a-Half. This game involved reaching a hand total closest to seven and a half without going over. Early History During the early years of its development, pontoon was primarily played by nobles and wealthy individuals in Europe. It quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity yet strategic gameplay. The rules were similar to those of Vingt-et-Un, with players aiming for a hand total of 21 or as close as possible without busting. It wasn't until the late 19th century that pontoon made its way across the Atlantic Ocean to America thanks to European immigrants. In America, it became known as Blackjack due to casinos offering bonus payouts for hands containing an Ace of Spades paired with either Jacks or Blackjacks (the Jacks being spades). Incorporating Strategy As pontoon spread throughout Europe and America, variations began emerging with slight differences in rules. One major change came during World War I when British soldiers stationed in France introduced their own version called "Vont-En-Neuf" which incorporated elements from another popular card game at the time - Poker. This new version added more strategy by allowing players not only to hit for additional cards but also stand on their current hand, double down (doubling the bet and receiving one additional card), split pairs, and even surrender (forfeiting half of the bet to avoid a potential loss). Modern Day Pontoon By the 1930s, pontoon had become a staple in casinos across America. However, due to strict gambling laws at the time, players could not see both dealer cards until after all bets were placed. This rule was later amended in 1956 when playing-card manufacturer Roger Baldwin published an influential paper titled "The Optimum Strategy in Blackjack." In this paper, Baldwin proposed that with perfect play and knowledge of what card remained in the deck; players could gain an edge over the casino. This revelation led to changes in rules as casinos tried to prevent skilled players from taking advantage. Today's version of pontoon closely resembles Baldwin's strategy with slight variations depending on where it is played. In some countries like Australia and Malaysia, for example, there are different terms used such as "Stick" instead of stand or "Twist" instead of hit. Pontoon also continues to evolve with advancements in technology leading to online versions available through various gaming platforms. With its popularity showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon; pontoon has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Conclusion From its mysterious origins centuries ago to becoming one of the most popular casino games worldwide today; pontoon has stood the test of time thanks to its simplicity yet strategic gameplay. It has undergone many changes throughout history but remains true to its fundamental concept - trying to reach a hand total closest or equaling 21 without going bust. As technology continues advancing and new variations emerge; it will be interesting to see how pontoon evolves further while still staying true to its roots. Its enduring appeal has made it more than just a game but rather an integral part of our cultural history that will continue being enjoyed by generations for years to come.
Pontoon boats have a long and rich history, dating back to the 19th century. Originally designed as flat-bottomed wooden boats with two or more pontoons attached to the sides, they were primarily used for fishing and transportation on calm waterways. The first recorded use of pontoon boats was in 1873 when American inventor Ambrose Weeres created a floating platform with barrels attached to it. This design was later improved by other inventors such as Godfrey Charnley who added an outboard motor in 1917, making it easier to maneuver. In the early 1930s, pontoon boats became increasingly popular for recreational use thanks to their stability and spaciousness. They were also relatively inexpensive compared to traditional motorboats, making them accessible to a wider audience. During this time, many lakeside resorts began offering rental pontoon boats for tourists. However, it wasn't until after World War II that pontoon boats really took off. Plastics manufacturer Jack Egan saw potential in using aluminum tubes instead of wooden barrels for pontoons and founded Egan Marine Corporation in Minnesota in 1951 – one of the first companies dedicated solely to manufacturing pontoon boats. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, advancements in materials and technology allowed for even bigger and more luxurious pontoon boat designs. Innovations such as fiberglass hulls and hydraulic steering systems made these vessels faster and more comfortable than ever before. Today's modern pontoon boats are sleeker than their predecessors but still maintain their signature flat-bottomed shape with multiple buoyant tubes (pontoons) running parallel along each side. They come equipped with various amenities such as wraparound seating areas, sun decks, built-in coolers, sound systems, grills, diving boards – even waterslides! Pontoon boats are now commonly seen on lakes and rivers around the world used not only for leisure but also for activities like water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding. In recent years, pontoon boats have also gained popularity in the commercial sector. They are used for fishing charters, eco-tours, and as shuttle vessels for larger boats. Their versatility and stability make them an ideal choice for these types of activities. Despite their humble beginnings as simple flat-bottomed wooden boats with barrels attached to the sides, pontoon boats have evolved into versatile and luxurious vessels that continue to be a favorite among boaters of all ages. With ongoing advancements in technology and design, it's safe to say that pontoon boats will continue to play a significant role in the world of boating for many years to come.
Newberry, South Carolina is a small but significant city located in the central part of the state. It has a rich history that spans several centuries and is deeply intertwined with the growth and development of both South Carolina and the United States as a whole. The area now known as Newberry was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Catawba nations. The first European settlement in this region can be traced back to 1750 when German settlers arrived and established farms along nearby rivers. These early pioneers were attracted to the fertile land and mild climate, which made it suitable for agriculture. In 1789, just two years after ratifying its constitution, South Carolina created Ninety Six District which included present-day Newberry County. The district was named after Fort Ninety Six – an important fort during the Revolutionary War located about eighty miles from Newberry. However, due to conflicts between Native Americans and settlers over land rights, many people avoided settling in this area until much later. It wasn't until 1775 that John Coate settled on what would become known as “Coates' Tavern” - considered to be one of the first permanent settlements in Newberry County. In 1787 “Frog Level,” now called Prosperity (located about ten miles south of today's downtown), also became home to another group of settlers who built homes near Beaverdam Creek – they called their new community "Pine Grove." Newberry's official founding date is January 28th, 1789 when George Fredrick Hiller deeded fifty acres for $100 dollars at Frog Level for use as a town square or market place - he named his new town “Newberrie.” Soon after its establishment as a township government (1791) residents began constructing streets around Frog Level; eventually those roads led into other areas like Boundary Street where homes were built facing Main Street towards Lake Murray. During these early years, Newberry was primarily an agricultural community with cotton being the main cash crop. The city grew slowly but steadily and by 1850 it had a population of only about 1,000 people. The Civil War brought significant changes to Newberry as many young men from the area joined the Confederate Army. In fact, some of the earliest battles of the war were fought in nearby towns like Jenkinsville and Helena. After the war ended, Newberry's economy struggled to recover. However, in 1868 construction began on a railroad line that connected Columbia to Greenville which ran through Newberry. This opened up new opportunities for trade and commerce leading to a period of growth and prosperity for the town. In addition to agriculture, industries such as textiles and lumber also flourished in this time period. The establishment of these industries led to an increase in immigration from other parts of South Carolina as well as Europe – particularly Germany - which greatly influenced the culture and traditions still evident in Newberry today. One notable event during this time was when President William Howard Taft visited Newberry on October 16th, 1909. He gave a speech at Central Methodist Church (which is still standing today) before departing for Greenwood. By the mid-20th century, railroads were no longer essential for transportation due to advancements in automobiles and highways. As a result, businesses began moving away from downtown areas causing economic decline throughout small towns like Newberry across America - resulting in abandoned buildings lining Main Street until revitalization efforts began around 2000 by local business owners who saw potential again within their own communities Today's downtown district boasts charming shops along tree-lined streets offering unique goods including antiques; clothing; jewelry & home decor among others catering towards tourists or residents alike shopping locally first instead elsewhere! Newberry College was chartered here back then too! It has been educating students since its founding date: January 7th, 1856. The campus is a beautiful place to visit and explore with its mix of historic buildings and modern facilities. In recent years, Newberry has continued to grow and develop while preserving its rich history. The city has been recognized for its efforts in revitalization, receiving the Great American Main Street Award in 2010 from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Today, Newberry is home to a diverse population of around 10,000 residents. It offers a small-town feel with all the amenities of a larger city including excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities such as Lake Murray State Park. Newberry's history is proudly displayed throughout the town - from historical markers on street corners to museums showcasing artifacts from different eras. Visitors can also take walking tours through downtown or visit places like Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site which provides insight into life in South Carolina during the antebellum period. In conclusion, Newberry's rich history plays an integral role in shaping its present-day identity. From humble beginnings as a German settlement to becoming an important railroad hub and now a thriving community with deep roots still evident today – this small southern town has certainly come a long way! Its charming streets lined with historic buildings and friendly people make it truly unique - preserving both past traditions while embracing growth for future generations yet to come!
Newberry, South Carolina was founded in 1789 by John Coate and his brother-in-law James McMorris. The town is located in central South Carolina and is the county seat of Newberry County. The name "Newberry" comes from a combination of two words: "new" for its recent establishment and "berry" after John Coate's hometown of Newbury, England. The town grew quickly due to its prime location on the crossroads between Charleston and Columbia, making it an ideal stop for travelers. In the early years, agriculture was the main industry in Newberry with cotton being the primary crop. However, as railroads expanded throughout the state in the mid-1800s, manufacturing also became an important part of Newberry's economy. Textiles mills were established along with other industries such as lumber and furniture production. During this time period, Newberry experienced significant growth and prosperity. In 1856, it officially became a chartered city. It also saw major developments such as a new courthouse built in 1828 that still stands today. However, like many cities in the southern states during this time period, Newberry faced challenges during the Civil War. Although not directly involved in any battles or skirmishes during the war itself, it suffered economic setbacks due to disruptions to trade routes and supplies. After Reconstruction ended at the turn of century, African Americans began to play more prominent roles within their communities including politics. Many black-owned businesses were established which further contributed to the local economy. Throughout much of its history up until World War II when textile production declined dramatically across America's south-eastern states—Newbery remained primarily agricultural-based with notable crops including corn wheat oats hay tobacco soybeans peaches watermelon livestock cattle hogs dairy products poultry eggs timber turkeys beekeeping peanuts grapes sorghum sweet potatoes tomatoes strawberries cucumbers cantaloupes cabbage beans peas squash carrots pecans and honey. During the 20th century, Newberry continued to grow and evolve. In the early 1900s, a new courthouse was built that became known as one of the most beautiful in South Carolina. The town also saw an increase in education facilities with the establishment of Newberry College in 1856 and later Newberry High School in 1912. In addition, notable events occurred such as hosting President Franklin D. Roosevelt during his visit to South Carolina in 1933 where he gave a speech at Newberry College's graduation ceremony. Newberry has also been home to many influential figures throughout its history including author Sidney Lanier, musician John Cullum, and civil rights activist Modjeska Monteith Simkins. Today, Newberry is a thriving city with a population of over 10,000 people. It continues to be an important hub for agriculture and manufacturing industries while also embracing modern developments such as tourism and technology-based businesses. The town remains committed to preserving its rich history through various museums and historical sites that showcase its past while looking towards an exciting future.
Pontoon boats have been a staple of water activities in Newberry, South Carolina for decades. These versatile vessels are perfect for exploring the numerous lakes and rivers that dot the landscape of this charming Southern town. The history of pontoon boats in Newberry can be traced back to the early 20th century when they were first introduced as a means of transportation on bodies of water. Originally made with wooden frames and rubberized canvas, these boats were used primarily for fishing and leisurely cruising. As time went on, advancements in technology led to the development of aluminum pontoons which greatly improved durability and stability. This innovation opened up new possibilities for pontoon boat usage, including water skiing and tubing. In the 1950s, local entrepreneur Eli Lilly saw an opportunity to capitalize on the growing popularity of pontoon boats. He founded Crest Pontoon Boats in Newberry, which quickly became one of the leading manufacturers in the industry. The company's success brought recognition to Newberry as a hub for pontoon production. By the 1970s, pontoon boat ownership had become more affordable thanks to mass production techniques implemented by companies like Crest Pontoon Boats. This allowed more families in Newberry to own their own boat and enjoy weekends out on nearby Lake Murray or Lake Greenwood. As demand for pontoons continued to grow throughout the 1980s and 1990s, other manufacturers such as Bennington Marine also established operations in Newberry. The competition between these companies fueled innovation and drove down prices even further, making it possible for even more people to experience boating life on South Carolina's beautiful waters. Today, there are several marinas located around Newberry offering rentals and sales of various types of pontoons - from basic models suitable for fishing trips to luxurious party barges equipped with amenities like wet bars and grills. These businesses cater not only to locals but also draw tourists who come to Newberry for its natural beauty and water recreation opportunities. In addition to leisure activities, pontoon boats have also played a crucial role in the local economy. The production and sale of these vessels have provided jobs for many residents of Newberry over the years. Furthermore, the popularity of pontoon boating has led to the growth of other industries such as boat maintenance and repair services. One notable event that has cemented Newberry's reputation as a premier destination for pontoon enthusiasts is the annual Lake Murray Boat Parade. This tradition began in 1990 and continues to draw thousands of visitors each year who come to witness an impressive display of decorated pontoons parading through the lake. Pontoon boats have become ingrained in the culture and identity of Newberry, South Carolina. They are not just mere vessels but symbols of leisure, community, and economic prosperity. As technology continues to evolve, so too will pontoon boats - ensuring their enduring presence on the waters around this charming Southern town for generations to come.
Pontoon, also known as Twenty-One or Vingt-et-Un, is a popular card game that has been enjoyed by players all around the world for centuries. It is believed to have originated in France in the 18th century and has since spread across Europe and eventually reached America in the 19th century. Over time, pontoon has evolved into different variations and forms, but its essence remains unchanged – a thrilling game of chance and strategy. The Basics of Pontoon Pontoon is played with a standard deck of 52 cards, without any jokers. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer's hand by getting closer to a total value of 21 without going over it. Each player competes individually against the dealer instead of playing against each other like in poker. The values assigned to each card are as follows: ace can be either one or eleven depending on what benefits the player more; face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth ten points; while numbered cards retain their face value. At the beginning of each round, players place their bets before receiving two face-up cards from the dealer. The dealer also receives two cards but only one is facing up while another one remains hidden until all players have completed their turns. Gameplay After receiving their initial two cards, players have several options: - Hit: Players can ask for an additional card from the dealer. - Stand: Players can choose not to receive any more cards. - Double Down: If they feel confident about their hand after receiving only two initial cards, players can double down by placing an additional bet equal to their original wager. - Split Pairs: In case both initial cards hold equal value (for example two queens), you may split them into separate hands by placing an identical bet on your second hand. This gives you twice as many chances at beating the dealer's hand. - Surrender: Some variants of pontoon allow players to surrender if they feel their hand is too weak. This means they forfeit half of their bet and end the round. After all players have completed their turns, the dealer reveals their hidden card. If the total value of the dealer's hand is 17 or higher, they must stand. But if it's lower than 17, they must hit until reaching a minimum of 17. Winning in Pontoon The highest possible hand in pontoon is called "Pontoon," which consists of an ace and any face card (Jack, Queen, King). This automatically beats any other hand with a value of 21. If neither player nor dealer has pontoon, then whoever has a total value closer to 21 wins. In case both have equal values (for example both hands are at 19), it results in a push where no one wins or loses. Strategy and Tips for Playing Pontoon As with most casino games, luck plays a significant role in determining who wins or loses in pontoon. However, there are some strategies that can increase your chances of winning: - Learn basic strategy: There are specific charts available online that show you what action you should take depending on your initial two cards and the dealer's upcard. - Understand payout ratios: Different variations of pontoon offer different payouts for winning hands; make sure you know them before placing your bets. - Avoid taking insurance: Some variants offer insurance against the possibility that the dealer may have blackjack (pontoon). However, this often leads to more losses than gains. - Practice makes perfect: Before playing for real money at casinos or online platforms, practice playing with friends using chips so that you get comfortable with rules and strategies without risking losing real money. Variations of Pontoon Over time different versions and variations have emerged from traditional pontoon as people added new elements to make it more exciting or challenging. Here are some popular variations of pontoon: - Spanish 21: This variation uses a deck with all the tens removed, making it more challenging to get a natural blackjack (pontoon). However, players have more options for doubling down and surrendering. - Blackjack Switch: In this variant, each player receives two hands instead of one. They can switch the top card from each hand to improve their chances of winning. - Super Fun 21: A slightly modified version where any combination that adds up to twenty-one automatically wins. In conclusion, pontoon is an exciting and straightforward game that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among casino-goers. Its simple rules and various possible strategies make it appealing to players of all skill levels. Whether you're playing at a land-based casino or online platform, pontoon offers endless possibilities for fun and potential winnings. So next time you're looking for a game to try your luck on, give pontoon a chance – who knows, you might just hit blackjack!