Easy Manhattan Clam Chowder

Name: Easy Manhattan Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 4 ounces chopped bacon (see note 1); 1 Tablespoon butter if needed; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 ribs of celery (finely chopped); 1/2 cup diced carrot; 2 cups chopped seeded tomatoes (or a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes); 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 0-1 cup dry white wine (see note 2); ½ cup chopped yellow pepper; 1 cup diced potato; 2 6.5 ounce cans of clams (including juice); 4 Tablespoons of tomato paste (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish