08/15/2024
Rivals Indoor Battlefield was conceived by a former Florida law enforcement officer, a single mother of 3, who was determined to provide a better future for her children. Sadly, I must announce that Rivals Indoor Battlefield is closing the end of August. This decision was not made due to failure or choice, but because I was outbid out of my lease. Rivals has been in business for 2 years and 2 months, during which time we have helped celebrate numerous birthdays, ranging from children to teens and adults. We even hosted a baby shower, as evidenced by our positive Google reviews. The excitement and joy of the nerf battles will always be a cherished memory for us. Rivals has been the source of many memories since its inception, from the initial idea to putting it on paper, to the sleepless nights spent putting it together in just 3 weeks while working a full-time 3rd shift job. Rivals truly is a testament to perseverance, like a rose that bloomed through concrete. In fact, the wooden bunkers inside Rivals were salvaged from a home being remodeled in our neighborhood, and the barrels were acquired from offer up. The initial set of 4 tires came from my car, while the remaining ones were provided by Los Primasos Tire Shop. Marilyn's Creations made the Decals using a Circuit machine. The chairs were acquired from a closed-down warehouse. I expressed how it all came together to proclaim the message: "Where there is a strong desire, there is a path; if you can imagine it, you can make it happen." Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sean Bell for being the one who encouraged me. He always supported me and encouraged me, no matter how outrageous my ideas were, he was always there to say, "Go for it." He was the person who stayed up all night with me also slept on the floor at Rivals because he also worked the night shift. He suggested adding "Indoor Battlefield" to the name Rivals and even designed the logo. I appreciate my daughters Noelani and Lizette, and my son Messiah for being patient with me while I worked hard to make it happen. They also helped with tasks like spackling walls, sanding walls, painting walls, and more. Our builder, Eduardo Moya, arrived prepared with tools to ensure the safety and security of our customers. My brother, Kelvin Melendez, and cousin, Angel Cordero, lent a hand wherever needed, primarily working on constructing the bunkers. Family friend Shawn, an electrician, assisted with wiring the electricity. My mother, Iris Cordero, provided us with homemade meals to nourish us when we were exhausted and hungry. Thanks to Noelani, Lizette, Messiah, Iriany Rosa, Sean Bell, Sophia Gumbs, and Julain Gumbs for assisting me in running things while I was away or needed a break. A big shout out to all of Rivals customers, especially those who booked parties and helped spread the word. I am truly grateful for each and every one of you. Rivals Indoor Battlefield embodies the essence of family support and family fun for people of all ages. Although Rivals may be coming to an end at the Lehigh Valley Mall, the journey continues. Here's to new adventures and opportunities.
