ROLLA, Mo. (AP) - The Missouri University of Science and Technology is continuing a tradition that began in 1908 when a group of Rolla students declared that St. Patrick was the patron saint of engineers.

The St. Patrick's celebration has grown to include more than a week's worth of events. The first is from March 4 through March 7 when students will club plastic snakes with large decorative sticks called shillelaghs. On March 13, a Missouri S&T student portraying St. Pat will arrive in downtown Rolla with his court aboard the traditional manure spreader.

Other events include a dance, talent show and dodge ball tournament. The festivities will wrap up March 16 with a parade.

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