American Science & Surplus store owner calls for help from customers

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- It's a one-stop shop when you need an eclectic variety of items, from microscopes to magnets to gag gifts. We're talking about American Science & Surplus, the south side shop where customers ask the most unusual questions. 

Patrick Meyer owns the chain of American Science & Surplus stores, and he says he needs help to keep the business running. He says COVID hit the business hard, and he needs to reorganize to avoid closing. He's asking supporters for any small donation they can spare to help. 

"A lot of overheads have increased and things like that and we thought we'd try to tap into the community that we've created with our 'Surpies' - our customers we call them 'Surpies' and they're a big part of our lives," said Meyer. 

American Science & Surplus is an 88-year-old company. If you haven't been there, the Milwaukee store is located on 69th and Oklahoma.