A Simple Hearty And Comforting Corn Chowder

Name: A Simple Hearty And Comforting Corn Chowder
Ingredients: 1/2 pound bacon (diced); 2 tablespoons bacon drippings; 1 medium sweet onion (diced); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned corn if using canned, drain); 2 tablespoons cornmeal; 4 cups chicken stock (low sodium); 2 medium russet potatoes (cut into cubes about 1/2”); Kosher salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, but recommended); 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk; 3 scallions (green part thinly sliced)