Clarke County Democrat

‘Swamp People’ celebrity coming for Fall Festival





Bruce Mitchell with his gun and dog.

Bruce Mitchell with his gun and dog.

Another “Swamp People” celebrity and alligator hunter will be a guest at this year’s Fall Festival in Jackson.

Bruce Mitchell from The History Channel’s “Swamp People” will put in an appearance at the 33rd annual event sponsored by the Jackson Area Chamber o Commerce.

Last year, Troy Landry of the show was a big draw for the festival.

Mitchell, who grew up in Ponchatoula, La., began working at an alligator farm at age 20 and moved on the farm property when he married his wife, Janet.

Over a period of 30-plus years, he learned many aspects of the business from his father-in-law and was able to take on more responsibility.

While working at the farm, Bruce was asked by the A & E Network if he would like to participate in a documentary on the History Channel. He agreed and was connected to the show “Swamp People.”

During his off season, he spends time with his granddaughters, family, friends, works around the house and enjoys his hobbies.

He and Janet usually spend a couple of weeks each month traveling in their camper to “meet and greets” to meet fans and sign autographs.

He loves gunsmithing and collecting guns and knives. He also enjoys going to their family camp on the river.

Mitchell’s visit will feature the world record Stokes alligator, which was killed by Mandy Stokes and her team from Thomaston during the summer alligator season.

The alligator measured 15- feet, 9-inches and weighed more than 1,000 pounds.

In addition, the festival will include street vendors, food, music, a lumberjack competition, car show and golf ball drop in the streets of downtown Jackson. Hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

There are only 600 tickets for this year’s golf ball drop, and they can be purchased at the chamber or from members of the chamber board.

A new feature this year will be a turkey calling contest.

Kenny Weiss with the Alabama State Turkey Calling Contest will be at the Fall Festival for the competition, which will take place in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church (214 College Ave.)from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and there will be prizes in adult and youth divisions.

For more information on the Fall Festival, call (251) 246-3251.


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