New England Clam Chowder

Name: New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 5 (6 1/2 ounce) cans minced clams with juice; 3 (8 ounce) bottles clam juice; 4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 2 cups onions, finely chopped; 2 large celery ribs, finely chopped; 3 large minced garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon thyme leaves; 2 bay leaves; 4 cups red potatoes, diced peeled; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons flour; 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chives or 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped for garnish