LOS ANGELES, Feb. 7, 2006 – The City of Los Angeles’ Cultural Affairs Department recently presented Southern California Gas Company (The Gas Company) with the Corporate Community Service Award.  This was the first time the Corporate Community Service Award was given.

        Margie Reese, manager of cultural affairs for the City of Los Angeles, presented the award Feb. 3 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center prior to a performance of the Lula Washington Dance Theatre.  The Gas Company sponsored three performances of the highly acclaimed dance group in celebration of African American Heritage Month.

        “The Gas Company has a long history of supporting the arts in Los Angeles, including the establishment of Disney Hall, The Music Center, and Plaza de la Raza,” said Reese.  “They are a leader in corporate social responsibility and in giving back to the community.”

        In 2005, The Gas Company provided $1.8 million to community organizations in Los Angeles and countless hours of employee volunteer time.  Among the diverse group of organizations it has supported are The Children’s Museum, L.A. Korean Festival, KCET, Towne Street Theatre, African Marketplace, and the Japanese American National Museum.

        “For nearly 140 years, we have provided safe and reliable natural gas service to the residents and businesses of Los Angeles, never losing sight of our social responsibility of giving back to the community,” said Hal Snyder, vice president of gas transmission and distribution at The Gas Company. 

        The Gas Company is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.5 million consumers through 5.5 million meters.  The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California.  The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community.  The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE).  Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. 

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