Dunebuggy the Clown


The Georgia Peanut Commission is saddened to announce the passing of Jim Russell, also known as "Dune Buggy". Dune Buggy has worked with GPC for 30 years in promoting peanuts to children across the U.S. and the world through the Peanut Circus Club. He was instrumental in providing educational materials to teachers across the U.S. and promoting the health and nutritious message of peanuts though school assembly programs, festivals and fairs. He also promoted peanuts through his Peanut Pedal Powered Tractor Pull shows and coordinated activities with ten other clowns through the Peanut Circus Club.

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Professional clown, magician, balloon sculpturing, and entertainer. “Dune Buggy” The Magic Clown Peanut Circus & Peanut Pedal Powered Tractor Pull Shows, Alias Col. Jim Russell are presented thoughout the US & Canada.

“Dune Buggy” is the Ambassador of Georgia Peanuts and a consumer spokesperson for the GPC & Peanut Advisory Board, promotes peanuts, peanut products, nutrition and Peanut Circus Club. The majority of the shows are school assemblies. An accomplished stage entertainer, balloon sculpturist, and a master children’s entertainer.

“Dune Buggy” is the author of numerous articles on clowning, magic, balloon sculpturing, and children’s entertainment. Articles have appeared in 3-Ring News, Clowning Around, Tops, Clown Alley, Kidabra and Calliope magazines. Conducting over 30 lectures a year on clowning, make-up, magic, entertaining children, and balloon sculpturing throughout the US & Canada. “Dune Buggy” was rated #7 in 1982 and #5 nationally by Clown Chatter magazine. Dean of his own Clown School from 1991-98 held at Samford University, Georgia Southern University, and conducting Clown School On The Road till present. He was appointed Editor & Publisher Clowning Around Magazine 2000-2009 for WCA, 2004 WCA “Clown Of The Year.”

“Dune Buggy” has been a clown for over 47 years. Clowning as a hobby became a full-time performer in 1978. He is a Past President, International Shrine Clown Association 1973-74, Past Southeast Regional Director, Ambassador of Clowns, 1985-89, Past Regional Vice President, Clowns of America and Clowns of America International, a member International Brotherhood of Magicians, Order of Merlin with Shield, Society of American Magicians, Fellowship of Magicians, and Fellowship of Christian Clowns. Life Member of Al Sihah Shrine Temple, ISCA, WCA, and COAI.

Col. Russell is a native of Nashville, TN a Graduate of Middle Tennessee State University BS in Agriculture, Graduate US Army, Command & General Staff College, and a Retired LT. Col. US Army Reserve. He is a retired Veterinary Drug Salesman, Elanco Product Co. a Div. of Eli Lilly & Co.

National Clown Week is celebrated August 1-7 annually. “Dune Buggy” is responsible in August 1969 for then Gov. Jimmy Carter signing the Georgia State Proclamation for Clown Week.

“Dune Buggy” and his Peanut Circus, and Peanut Pedal Powered Tractor Pull shows presenting family entertainment for all ages.