Potato Corn Chowder with Bacon

Name: Potato Corn Chowder with Bacon
Ingredients: 3 ears of sweet corn; 3-4 small Russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 4 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped; 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 medium red onion, diced; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup half and half; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional garnishes (bacon, green onions, shredded cheese); Optional additional water, up to 12 oz