EXHIBIT 99.2
[ATMOS ENERGY CORPORATION LETTERHEAD AND LOGO APPEAR HERE]
DATE: August 10, 2000 INVESTOR CONTACT:
Lynn Hord (972) 855-3729
FOR RELEASE: Immediately MEDIA CONTACT:
Randy Hicks (972) 855-3720
US PROPANE, LLC - HERITAGE HOLDINGS COMPLETE MERGER
Dallas, Texas -- Atmos Energy Corporation (NYSE: ATO)
announced today that US Propane, LLC, in which Atmos is a
partner, has completed a merger of its operations with Heritage
Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HPG). The merger creates the fourth-
largest retail propane distributor in the United States, serving
more than 480,000 customers in 28 states.
The merger was accomplished through a series of transactions.
US Propane was formed by combining the propane holdings of Atmos
and three other companies: AGL Resources (NYSE: ATG), Piedmont
Natural Gas Company, Inc. (NYSE: PNY) and TECO Energy (NYSE: TE).
US Propane then acquired all of the general partnership interest
and 34 percent of the limited partnership interest in Heritage
Propane Partners.
"Through this merger we will maximize the value of Atmos' propane
assets," said Robert W. Best, Chairman, President and Chief
Executive Officer. "As a partner in one of the largest propane
companies in the U.S., we will enhance service to our customers,
become more competitive in the propane industry, and create
additional value for our shareholders."
All statements, other than historical financial information and
statements of historical facts included in this press release
may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements" within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section
21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements
reflect the Company's current views made in good faith with
respect to future events and performance. Actual results may
differ materially from those suggested in any such forward-
looking statements as a result of certain risks and
uncertainties. A discussion of these risks and uncertainties
is included in the Company's periodic reports filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission including its Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1999.
Atmos Energy Corporation of Dallas, Texas, distributes natural
gas and propane to more than one million customers in 13 states
through its operating divisions - Energas Company, Greeley Gas
Company, Trans Louisiana Gas Company, United Cities Gas
Company, Western Kentucky Gas Company and United Cities Propane
Gas, Inc. Atmos' Internet address is www.atmosenergy.com.
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