Manhattan Clam Chowder

Name: Manhattan Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces; 1 large onion (diced); 2 ribs celery (chopped); 1 medium green bell pepper (seeded and diced); 3 medium garlic cloves (minced); 1 28 oz can petite diced tomatoes; 2 cups clam juice; 2 cups low sodium chicken stock; 3 cups cubed golden potatoes; 1 tsp seasoned salt; 1 tsp seafood seasoning (i.e. Old Bay, Seafood Magic or similar); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp black pepper (or lemon pepper); 1 large bay leaf; 2 6.5 oz cans chopped clams (drained and reserve juice); oyster crackers or saltines for serving