If one were to search for the newest craze sweeping the world of miniature golf, one would probably discover glow-in-the-dark miniature golf.

Actually, it’s glow-in-the-light miniature golf – black light to be exact. This new trend consists of black, felt-covered courses and boundaries painted with different colors of florescent paint. The bumps and obstacles are also painted or outlined with florescent tape, and the holes are a florescent orange. The whole apparatus is lighted by overhead black lights.

Recently, Joplin has jumped on the glow-golf band wagon with the Northpark Mall’s newest addition – Cosmic Golf. Since its Memorial Day opening, Cosmic Golf has been offering a new experience to the people of Joplin. The business is one of a 15-unit nationwide chain owned by Ed Kristofferson.

Cosmic Golf is operated by Denise Lee, manager since June 5, and four employees.

Lee said the atmosphere and clientele keep her feeling young.

“It’s the best job I’ve ever had” Lee said. “You get to meet every kind of person you can think of. We love to see families come in and play together; we are a family oriented business. I’ve always thought of myself as a kid at heart, a Toys ‘R’ Us kid of sorts; now I am a Cosmic Golf kid”.

Cosmic Golf is the only one in the chain with a single 18-hole course. The others have at least two. Despite its size, the Joplin location is currently ranked No. 6 in the chain; it has been ranked as high as fourth.

Desiree Peterson-Patrick, senior graphic communication major and owner of Carbon Star, which is located next to Cosmic Golf, said she likes Cosmic Golf as a neighbor.

“The people that run it are real down to earth.” Peterson-Patrick said. “I think it’s something new and different for Joplin.”

Customers pay $6 to play and can go through the course three times. At the end of the course is a bonus hole similar to Plinko, here, customers get a chance to win a prize, such as a glowing necklace. Along with the necklaces, customers can buy basketballs, soccer balls, bracelets, golf balls, tape, key chains, swords, flashlights and many other items; all glow-in-the-dark.

Cosmic Golf also offers group and child discounts and has golf clubs from adult size down to toddler size.

Recently, the company held a fund raiser for Officers Tim Neilson and Greg Batson, two Joplin police officers caught in an explosion while on duty.

During a fund raiser, Cosmic Golf charges the standard $6 per person and 50 percent of the proceeds go toward the fund.

Colleges, schools, clubs, churches and other organizations interested in holding a fundraiser or membership drive can contact Lee at 782-4569.