In 1949, Isac Levey and Billy Neuberger founded the Davis Islands Pharmacy at 232 East Davis Blvd. At the time, the only other businesses were a Shell Oil station and the real estate office of A.D. Williams. Construction was booming on the island following the end of World War II. D. P. Davis only built one commercial structure on his Islands in the 1920s. That building, the Bay Isle Building, is still the centerpiece in the district's retail. Levey and Neuberger observed the growth and built their small structure next door. For decades, the business housed a soda fountain loved and frequented by neighborhood kids and adults alike. Cherry cokes and hot honey buns with butter on top were favorites. Since opening, a United States post office substation has also been a part of the business. Neuberger knew how to merchandise, and he knew his customers. The toy and gift section of the store was typically full. They sold everything from large metal toy trucks to BB guns. They sold health and beauty aids, small appliances, cigarettes, cigars, small tools, and much more so that islanders would not have to cross the bridge to get their supplies. Since day one, owners have tried to know their customers' names and needs. Over the years, the building was renovated at least five times.

Neuberger and his wife Virginia were active in the community. They had three sons, and Billy was a Boy Scout scoutmaster for Troop 22 for years. Billy Max Neuberger died in 1996 at the age of 77.

In 1986, pharmacist Bob Bobo, who grew up on the island, bought the store from Neuberger and has run it ever since. At the time, he called it a dream come true. The soda fountain is long gone, as is the large toy section. The store is half of the size it was in its heyday but is still a go-to for islanders. The pharmacy business is tricky, given the competition of larger pharmacy chains and restrictions on who the insurance industry allows to fill prescriptions. But The Davis Islands Pharmacy is still a local favorite in the everybody-knows-your-name community of the islands.

© Chip Weiner. Old Tampa Photos