Alabaster Teacher Stars in Keith Jackson / Shoney’s Commercial

NASHVILLE, Tenn., (Sept. 14, 2005) –Thompson High School drama teacher Alan Gardner will appear in a Shoney’s Restaurant commercial with legendary sports announcer Keith Jackson.  The restaurant’s new football-themed television commercial is scheduled to begin airing Monday, Sept. 5.

            Gardner, who plays an overzealous football fan, said, “Shoney’s presented a unique opportunity to act alongside the voice of college football – a dream for any sports fan.”  Jackson is widely recognized for his play-by-play expressions, such as “Whoa Nelly!” and “FumBLE!”

“The energy Alan brought to the set was very contagious,” said Dan Dahlen, senior vice president of marketing at Shoney’s Restaurants.  “He and Keith made a great match.”

The commercial highlights the five game-day baskets for $5.99, which includes the All-American Bacon Cheeseburger, Fish ‘n Chips, Chicken Fingers, Sirloin Steak Fingers and Popcorn Shrimp. The baskets will be available at Shoney’s Restaurants beginning Monday, Sept. 5, through Sunday, Oct. 30.

Shoney’s Restaurants is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., and owns, operates and franchises more than 300 restaurants in 21 states.