The pumpkins may or may not be difficult to find, but it will be easy to spot the harvest of goodness.

 

Meadowbrook Mall is hosting Monster Maul - a series of events to encourage gratitude, kindness, diversity and sharing during the month of October.

 

Throughout the month, a pumpkin scavenger hunt will be held, and all kids are encouraged to participate. Because blue is representative of kindness, the children will search for blue pumpkins.

 

After picking up their pumpkin scavenger hunt card at the mall’s customer service center, participants can walk the mall to find blue pumpkins on display at storefronts. At least 10 stores will be participating, said Marketing Director Robin Urquhart.

 

“Write down the store name where you spotted the blue pumpkins and return your card to the customer service center desk to receive a prize – sch as Halloween crafts, treats and more,” she said.

 

Also taking place Oct. 1-31 is the UniCare Health Plan Food Drive to encourage sharing.

 

“UniCare will host a month-long food drive with all donations going to Shepherd’s Corner,” Urquhart said. “Non-perishable food items, as well as cleaning and hygiene supplies, will be accepted at the mall’s customer service center.”

 

A list of most needed items will be posted at the customer service center.

 

Those who choose to bring their donations between 1-5 p.m. on Oct. 19, take them to the inside Target entrance, where UniCare Health Plan of WV, Inc. will be set up and distributing goody bags - while supplies last – as well as information about the organization.

 

To kick off the month of mall activities, the American Red Cross will host a blood drive 1-7 p.m. Oct. 1 next to Marshalls. On average, the donation itself only takes 8-10 minutes, Urquhart said.

 

“It’s a simple thing to do, but it can make a big difference in the lives of others,” she said.

 

And just for fun, the month of October will also feature FREE selfies and family photos at the Pumpkin Patch at the mall’s Center Court. Sponsored by Cartoon Headquarters Fun Zone and UniCare Health Plan of WV, Inc., the activity comes along with the chance to win free mall merchandise.

 

“Just post your photo in the event comments on the (Meadowbrook Mall) Facebook page for a chance to win great prizes. One winner will be drawn each week,” Urquhart said.

 

Donated by UniCare, prizes include a $50 mall gift card, two $50 Target gift cards and two $25 Chick-fil-A gift cards.

 

Finally, mall customers will serve as judges for the Retailer Mannequin Halloween Costume Contest.

 

“Meadowbrook Mall stores will decorate Halloween-themed mannequins that will be displayed in Center Court from Oct. 5-18,” Urquhart said. “Vote for your favorite Halloween mannequin for a chance to win a $25 mall-wide gift card and more!”

 

Visit the Meadowbrook Mall Web site HERE.

 

The Meadowbrook Mall Complex is located on Interstate 79, Exit 121 in Bridgeport. It has been serving the people of the Bridgeport/Clarksburg area since 1982. Meadowbrook Mall is owned and managed in association with Cafaro affiliated companies, based in Youngstown, Ohio.  One of the nation’s largest privately held shopping center developers, the Cafaro organization owns and oversees more than 30 million square feet of commercial real estate in 10 states. For information on the Cafaro organization, visit www.cafarocompany.com.