Authentic New England Clam Chowder

Name: Authentic New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients: 1/2 lb. salt pork, diced into 1/4 pieces*; 1/4 cup water; 2 Tbl. butter; 2 large ribs celery, thinly sliced (1/8); 1 large onion, small diced (1/4); 1 small to medium-sized clove garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 3 cups milk; 2 1/2 lbs. russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2 cubes; 1 large bay leaf; 1/2 tsp. dried thyme; 3 Tbl. cornstarch mixed with 3 Tbl. COLD water; 2 (10 oz.) cans baby clams, (drain ONE can of the juice, add juice from second can) *see note for using fresh hard-shell clams; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 tsp. white pepper; 1 tsp. regular table salt, or to taste; chopped fresh parsley to garnish bowls; serve with oyster crackers if desired