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Hecklers, demonstrators attend Ohio gov's speech

Mark Cleland, from Austintown, Ohio, participates in a protest outside Wells Academy/Steubenville High School Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012, in Steubenville, Ohio. Gov. John Kasich is expected to highlight the themes of education and shale gas drilling in his State of the State address Tuesday. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

Darla Bruno, from Canton, Ohio participates in a protest outside of Wells Academy/Steubenville High School Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012, in Steubenville, Ohio. Gov. John Kasich is expected to highlight the themes of education and shale gas drilling in his State of the State address Tuesday. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

Protesters rally outside of Wells Academy/Steubenville High School Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012, in Steubenville, Ohio. Gov. John Kasich is expected to highlight the themes of education and shale gas drilling in his State of the State address Tuesday. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

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By JULIE CARR SMYTH, The Associated Press Updated 6:31 PM Tuesday, February 7, 2012

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — Troopers helped escort seven hecklers out of Gov. John Kasich's State of the State address as he talked about drilling for natural gas in eastern Ohio.

They shouted "John Kasich is selling out Ohio" during the Tuesday speech at a school in Steubenville.

The Highway Patrol says two additional hecklers left on their own. There were no arrests or charges.

Before the speech, about 100 demonstrators gathered outside on issues including a new drilling technique and union rights.

Elaine Mastromatteo of Bristolville was among drilling protesters. She held a sign reading, "Stop governmental corruption, environmental destruction," and said she wants Kasich to work for citizens, not corporations.

State Rep. Robert Hagan of Youngstown also was with drilling opponents and rented a bus to carry about 50 demonstrators to the speech.

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Online:

Ohio Gov. John Kasich: http://www.governor.ohio.gov

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Associated Press Writer Ann Sanner contributed to this report.

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February 07, 2012 11:27 PM EST

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