Target Recalls Children’s Pillowfort Weighted Blankets Due to Asphyxiation Hazard; Two Fatalities Reported

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Target Corporation, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, are announcing the recall of about 204,000 Pillowfort Weighted Blankets, where a young child can become entrapped by unzipping and entering the blanket, posing a risk of death by asphyxiation.

A 4-year-old girl and a 6-year-old girl reportedly became entrapped in the cover of the weighted blanket and died due to asphyxia at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina in April 2022. Target has received four reports of children becoming entrapped in these weighted blankets, including the two fatalities.

CPSC and Target are urging consumers to stop using the recalled weighted blankets immediately and contact Target for a refund.

This recall involves Pillowfort Weighted Blankets. The blankets weigh 6 pounds, measure 60 inches long and 40 inches wide and have a removable, waterproof, washable cover. The blankets come in eight prints or colors including unicorn white, space navy, pink, blue, gray, buffalo plaid red, blue constellation, and unicorn pink. Item numbers 097-02-0140 (Unicorn - White), 097-02-0148 (Space Navy), 097-02-0361(Pink), 097-02-0363 (Blue), 097-02-0364 (Gray), 097-02-1603 (Buffalo Plaid – Red), 097-02-3904 (Blue Constellation) and 097-02-3905 (Unicorn – Pink) are printed on the fabric tag attached to the removable covers of the blankets.

The weighted blankets were manufactured in China.

Target exclusively sold the recalled weighted blankets at Target stores nationwide and online at www.target.com. The blankets were sold from December 2018 through September 2022 for $40.

Contact Target at 800-440-0680 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily to receive a prepaid return label to return the blankets by mail or return to any Target store. Go online at https://help.target.com/help/RedirectArticleToDetail?articleId=kA95d000000sY5c&clickSearchVar=Search+Results&searchQuery=Recalled%3A%20Target%20Childrens%20Pillowfort%20Weighted%20Blankets&articleTitle=Target+Childrens+Pillowfort+Weighted+Blankets or www.target.com and click on “Recall Information”, then on “Home Goods” for more information. Target is also contacting all known purchasers directly to arrange returns. The consumer will receive a refund of $40 in the form of a credit for use at Target stores or online at www.target.com, or the amount on the purchase receipt if higher. Consumers can also click the “Products Recalls” tab on Target’s Facebook page for more information.

Remedy: CPSC and Target are urging consumers to stop using the recalled weighted blankets immediately and contact Target for a refund.

Incidents/Injuries: A 4-year-old girl and a 6-year-old girl reportedly became entrapped in the cover of the weighted blanket and died due to asphyxia at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina in April 2022. Target has received four reports of children becoming entrapped in these weighted blankets, including the two fatalities.

Sold Exclusively At: Target stores nationwide and online at www.target.com. The blankets were sold from December 2018 through September 2022 for $40.

Note: Individual Commissioners may have statements related to this topic. Please visit www.cpsc.gov/commissioners to search for statements related to this or other topics.

Recall number: 23-078

More information and photos HERE.

Rucksack Contract Awarded

Propper International Inc., Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico (SPE1C1-23-C-0008, $49,082,165); and Eagle Industries Unlimited Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia (SPE1C1-23-C-0006, $23,564,800), have each been awarded a fixed-price, fixed-quantity contract under solicitation SPE1C1-23-R-0015 for the Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment 4000 rucksack set. This was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 U.S. Code 2304 (c)(2), as stated in Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.302-2. This is a one-year, eight-month contract with no option periods. Location of performance is Kentucky, with an Aug. 30, 2024, performance completion date. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

FTC Seeks Public Comment on Potential Updates to its ‘Green Guides’ for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims

On December 14, 202, the Federal Trade Commission announced that it is seeking public comment on potential updates and changes to the Green Guides for the Use of Environmental Claims. The Commission’s Green Guides help marketers avoid making environmental marketing claims that are unfair or deceptive under Section 5 of the FTC Act. The Commission seeks to update the guides based on increasing consumer interest in buying environmentally friendly products.

“Consumers are increasingly conscious of how the products they buy affect the environment, and depend on marketers’ environmental claims to be truthful,” said Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Samuel Levine. “We look forward to this review process, and will make any updates necessary to ensure the Green Guides provide current, accurate information about consumer perception of environmental benefit claims. This will both help marketers make truthful claims and consumers find the products they seek.”

The Green Guides were first issued in 1992 and were revised in 1996, 1998, and 2012. They provide guidance on environmental marketing claims, including how consumers are likely to interpret particular claims and how marketers can substantiate these claims to avoid deceiving consumers.

The FTC is requesting general comments on the continuing need for the guides, their economic impact, their effect on the accuracy of various environmental claims, and their interaction with other environmental marketing regulations. The Commission also seeks information on consumer perception evidence of environmental claims, including those not in the guides currently.

Specific issues on which the FTC expects to get many public comments include:

• Carbon Offsets and Climate Change: The current Guides provide guidance on carbon offset and renewable energy claims. The Commission invites comments on whether the revised Guides should provide additional information on related claims and issues.

• The Term “Recyclable:” Among other things, the FTC seeks comments on whether it should change the current threshold that guides marketers on when they can make unqualified recyclable claims, as well as whether the Guides should address in more detail claims for products that are collected (picked up curbside) by recycling programs but not ultimately recycled.

• The Term “Recycled Content:” Comments are requested on whether unqualified claims about recycled content – particularly claims related to “pre-consumer” and “post industrial” content – are widely understood by consumers, as well as whether alternative methods of substantiating recycled content claims may be appropriate; and

• The Need for Additional Guidance: The Commission also seeks comment on the need for additional guidance regarding claims such as “compostable,” “degradable,” ozone-friendly,” “organic,” and “sustainable, as well as those regarding energy use and energy efficiency.

A list of recent cases brought relating to topics covered by the guides can be found on the FTC’s website.

The Commission vote approving the publication of a Federal Register notice announcing the opening of the public comment period was 4-0, with Chair Lina M. Khan issuing a separate statement. The notice has been published in the Federal Register and the FTC is accepting comments for 60 days. Information about how to submit comments can be found in the Federal Register notice.

USTR Extends Exclusions From China Section 301 Tariffs

On December 16, 2022, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative announced a nine‑month extension of 352 product exclusions in the China Section 301 Investigation that had been scheduled to expire at the end of 2022. These exclusions were initially reinstated on March 28, 2022 and the extension will help align further consideration of these exclusions with the ongoing comprehensive four-year review.

All petitions filed by Agathon Associates on behalf of clients were approved.

BACKGROUND

On March 23,, 2022, the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced its determination to reinstate certain previously granted and extended product exclusions in the China Section 301 Investigation. The determination reinstates 352 of the 549 eligible exclusions. The reinstated product exclusions will apply as of October 12, 2021, and extend through December 31, 2022. The most recent action extends the exclusion through September 30, 2022.

WTO Panel Rebuffs U.S. Move to Consider Hong Kong as China for Origin Marking

On December 21, 2022, the following statement was released by USTR Spokesperson Adam Hodge

"The United States strongly rejects the flawed interpretation and conclusions in the World Trade Organization (WTO) Panel report released today regarding Hong Kong, China’s challenge to the U.S. determination and action suspending differential treatment for marks of origin. The U.S. action responded to highly concerning actions by the People’s Republic of China to erode Hong Kong, China’s autonomy and the democratic and human rights of its people, threatening U.S. national security interests.

"The Biden Administration remains committed to preserving U.S. national security and protecting human rights and democracy, and taking action to protect national security is a right inherent to any sovereign nation and explicitly reflected in the WTO Agreement. The United States has held the clear and unequivocal position, for over 70 years, that issues of national security cannot be reviewed in WTO dispute settlement, and the WTO has no authority to second-guess the ability of a WTO Member to respond to what it considers a threat to its security.

"The Hong Kong panel report suggests that the United States cannot act to address China’s undermining of democratic and human rights and democracy in Hong Kong. To be clear, the United States does not intend to remove the marking requirement as a result of this report, and we will not cede our judgment or decision-making over essential security matters to the WTO. This report further underscores the need for fundamental WTO reform and the United States will continue to work constructively with Members to ensure that the WTO remains relevant to the lives of all people."

BACKGROND

On August 11, 2020, U.S. Customs and Border Protection published in the Federal Register (85 FR 48551) notice that in light of the President's Executive Order on Hong Kong Normalization, issued on July 14, 2020, suspending the application of section 201(a) of the United States-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992 to the marking statute, section 304 of the Tariff Act of 1930, with respect to imported goods produced in Hong Kong, such goods may no longer be marked to indicate "Hong Kong" as their origin, but must be marked to indicate "China." Given the commercial realities, CBP is allowing a transition period to implement new marking. The transition period extends through September 25, 2020.

The Life is Good Company Recalls Darkest Blue Women’s Fleece Sweatshirts and Men’s Fleece Shorts Due to Violation of Federal Flammability Standard and Burn Hazard

This recall involves Fall 2022 Darkest Blue Fleece Men’s Simply True shorts and two styles of Fall 2022 Darkest Blue Women’s Simply True Hoodies: Good Vibes Daisies and Optimist Athletic. Good Vibes Daisies has a front zipper, a white daisy and “LIFE IS GOOD” printed on the upper left breast area and “Good Vibes” printed on the back. Optimist Athletic has “Optimist” and “Life is Good” printed on the chest. The men’s shorts have a white “Life is Good” label below the left pocket.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled products immediately and contact Life is Good to request a postage-paid shipping label to return the products for a full refund. Upon receipt and verification of the recalled product, consumers will be issued a full refund. Life is Good is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: www.lifeisgood.com and independent clothing stores from April 2022 through November 2022 for between $33 and $44 for the Men’s Simply True Fleece Shorts, between $51 and $68 for the Women’s Zip Hoodies and between $48 and $64 for the Women’s Simply True Hoodies.

Importer(s): The Life is Good Company, of Boston, Massachusetts

Manufactured In: Guatemala

Recall number: 23-063

More information and photos HERE.

QB 23-105 CAFTA Textile Cumulation Goods 2023

Apparel goods of chapter 62, cut or knit-to-shape, and sewn or otherwise assembled in a CAFTA-DR country, utilizing materials from Mexico, as provided for in chapter 98, subchapter XXII, U.S. Note 21

Read more HERE.

Marine Coat Contract Awarded

Crown Clothing Co., Vineland, New Jersey, has been awarded a maximum $8,682,401 modification (P00004) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1432) with four one-year option periods for men's green dress coats, belts and keepers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is Dec. 18, 2023. Using military service is Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Tent Contract Awarded

Outdoor Venture Corp.,** Stearns, Kentucky, has been awarded a maximum $76,701,761 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for military standard tents and components. This was a competitive acquisition with two responses received. This contract includes two one-year tiers. The performance completion date is Aug. 31, 2025. Using military services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-23-D-0002).

**Small business in historically underutilized business zones

Coat and Trouser Contract Awarded

Silver Oak Leaf Inc.,** Alpharetta, Georgia, has been awarded a maximum $50,395,200 modification (P00025) exercising the two-year option period of a two-year base contract (SPE1C1-21-D-1407) with one two-year option period for various types of coats and trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Location of performance is Puerto Rico, with a Dec. 14, 2024, ordering period end date. Using military services are Army, Air Force and Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2025 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Service-disabled veteran-owned small-disadvantaged business

Victoria's Secret Bans Cashmere

According to a press report "Victoria's Secret joins ASOS, Columbia Sportswear, Overstock and dozens of other companies that have banned cashmere. PETA is calling on Urban Outfitters, H&M, Madewell and other retailers to follow suit."

Read more HERE

What is Viva Magenta?

Pantone’s Color of The Year, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.

More information and images HERE.

Army and Air Force Coat and Trouser Contract Awarded

M&M Manufacturing LLC,*** Lajas, Puerto Rico, has been awarded a maximum $9,969,600 modification (P00006) exercising the first one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1517) with four one-year option periods for various types of coats and trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is Nov. 30, 2023. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Awarded Nov. 30, 2022)

***Woman-owned small business in historically underutilized business zones

Physical Fitness Uniform Jacket Contract Awarded

National Industries for the Blind,** Alexandria, Virginia, has been awarded a maximum $15,897,000 modification (P00003) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-21-D-B102) with two one-year option periods for physical fitness uniform jackets. This is an indefinite-delivery contract. Locations of performance are Maryland, North Carolina and Arkansas, with a Dec. 14, 2023, ordering period end date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory source

USTR Extends Exclusions Of COVID-Related Products From China Section 301 Tariffs

On November 23, 3033, the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced the further extension of the COVID-related product exclusions in the China Section 301 Investigation. The exclusions were previously scheduled to expire on November 30, 2022. In light of the continuing efforts to combat COVID, the exclusions have been extended for an additional 90 days, through February 28, 2023.

The exclusions cover 81 medical-care products and were initially granted on December 29, 2020. Additional information is set out in the Federal Register notice, which can be viewed HERE.

Navy Trouser Contract Awarded

Creighton AB Inc., Reidsville, North Carolina, has been awarded a maximum $8,102,438 modification (P00006) exercising the third one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-20-D-1213) with four one-year option periods for broadfall dress trousers. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Location of performance is New York, with a Nov. 24, 2023, ordering period end date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Sources Sought Domestically Produced Rayon

DLA Troop Support, an activity of the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), is the Defense Department's principal buyer of military flags and metal and embroidered insignias. Numerous heraldic specifications require rayon as a component in a wide variety of items purchased by DLA Troop Support such as organizational flags.

Determinations have been made that rayon yarn/fiber is not currently produced in the United States or its prossessions. There is currently a Domestic Non-Availability Determination in effect for Rayon. DLA Troop Support is hereby providing producers of rayon yarn/fiber complying with specification and domestic source and content requirements of the Berry Amendment and opportunity to identify themselves. In accordance with 10 U.S.C. 2241, every component (including all natural and synthetic fibers) must be grown and produced in the United States or its possessions. If your firm meets this criteria and produces rayon/fiber domestically, please submit your firm's name and point of contact to DLA Troop Support, ATTN Charles L. Brown II, via e-mail at charles.brown3@dla.mil. DLA Troop Support will also entertain domestically produced substitutes for rayon yarn/fiber. If your firm manufactures domestic substitutes for rayon yarn/fiber that are capable of meeting specification requirements called for in heraldic items, please submit your company information along with the domestically manufactured substitute component.

Read more HERE.

LA/Long Beach Seaport Reaches One Billion Worth of Fake Products Seized Breaking All-time Records

On September 15, for the first time in history, the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport seized one billion dollars' worth of counterfeit products in less than a year. This amount represents the estimated total manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the goods seized, had they been genuine.

The new record marks an increment of 38 percent from the $725,365,590 of counterfeit goods seized in fiscal year 2021. The most pirated items included wearing apparel, accessories, handbags, wallets, footwear, watches, jewelry, and consumer electronics.

More information and photos HERE

Cole Haan, Pendleton, Announce Collaboration

On November 16, 2022, Nov. 16, 2022, Cole Haan announced its collaboration with the heritage lifestyle brand, Pendleton Woolen Mills. The seven-piece footwear and bag collection draws inspiration from Acadia National Park in Maine and fuses Pendleton's distinctive fabrics with Cole Haan's design, innovation, and craftsmanship to embody what both brands do best: iconic American products that stand the test of time.

Read more HERE.

The William Carter Company Recalls Infant’s Yellow Footed Fleece Pajamas with Animal Graphic Due to Puncture and Laceration Hazards

Description: This recall involves Carter’s infant’s one-piece fleece, footed pajamas. The recalled pajamas are yellow with an all over heart design and a pink animal graphic. They were sold in children’s sizes 12M, 18M, and 24M. Style number 1O102410 is printed on the front of the care tag sewn on the inside of the pajamas, and the UPC number is printed on the back of the same care tag. The UPC numbers included in the recall are 195861313861, 195861313878, and 195861313885. The style number and UPC number are also printed on the price tag.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled infant footed fleece pajamas away from children and return them to a Carter’s store location for a full refund in the form of a gift card. Consumers can also contact Carter’s to request a free return label and envelope to return the pajamas for a refund in the form of an electronic gift card.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Carter’s, Kohl’s, Macy’s, Belk, Boscov’s and other stores nationwide and online at www.carters.com from July 2022 through September 2022 for about $22.

Importer(s): The William Carter Company, of Atlanta, Georgia

Manufactured In: Cambodia

Recall number: 23-048

More information and photos HERE.

Flocked Swabs, Products Containing Flocked Swabs, and Methods of Using Same; Comments Due December 14, 2022

On November 21, 2022, the U.S. International Trade Commission published in the Federal Register (87 FR 70863) Flocked Swabs, Products Containing Flocked Swabs, and Methods of Using Same; Notice of Request for Submissions on the Public Interest

Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 provides that, if the U.S. International Trade Commission finds a violation (i.e., violation of intellectual property rights), it shall exclude the articles concerned from the United States unless, after considering the effect of such exclusion upon the public health and welfare, competitive conditions in the United States economy, the production of like or directly competitive articles in the United States, and United States consumers, it finds that such articles should not be excluded from entry.

The Commission is soliciting submissions on public interest issues raised by the recommended relief should the Commission find a violation, specifically: a general exclusion order ("GEO") directed to certain flocked swabs and products containing same, or, if no GEO is issued, a limited exclusion order directed to certain flocked swabs and products containing same imported, sold for importation, and/or sold after importation by respondents Wuxi NEST Biotechnology Co., Ltd., NEST Scientific Inc., and NEST Scientific USA (collectively, "NEST"); Jiangsu Changfeng Medical Industry Co.; BioTeke Corporation (Wuxi) Co., Ltd.; Miraclean Technology Co.; and Huachenyang (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd. and HCY USA, LLC (collectively, "Respondents"); and a cease and desist order directed to the NEST Respondents.

The Commission is interested in further development of the record on the public interest in this investigation. Accordingly, members of the public are invited to file submissions of no more than five (5) pages, inclusive of attachments, concerning the public interest in light of the ALJ's Recommended Determination on Remedy and Bonding issued in this investigation on November 14, 2022. Comments should address whether issuance of the recommended remedial orders in this investigation, should the Commission find a violation, would affect the public health and welfare in the United States, competitive conditions in the United States economy, the production of like or directly competitive articles in the United States, or United States consumers.

In particular, the Commission is interested in comments that:

(i) explain how the articles potentially subject to the recommended remedial orders are used in the United States;

(ii) identify any public health, safety, or welfare concerns in the United States relating to the recommended orders;

(iii) identify like or directly competitive articles that complainant, its licensees, or third parties make in the United States which could replace the subject articles if they were to be excluded;

(iv) indicate whether complainant, complainant's licensees, and/or third-party suppliers have the capacity to replace the volume of articles potentially subject to the recommended orders within a commercially reasonable time; and

(v) explain how the recommended orders would impact consumers in the United States.

Written submissions must be filed no later than by close of business on December 14, 2022.

Tent Contract Awarded

Creative Tent International Inc., Henderson, Nevada (SPE1C1-23-D-0011, $200,000,000) has been added as an awardee to the multiple award contract for commercial-off-the-shelf shelters and tents, issued against solicitation SPE1C1-18-R0003 and awarded May 10, 2019.

Camouflage3 Jacket Contract Awarded

Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind Inc.,** Winston Salem, North Carolina, has been awarded a maximum $7,761,285 modification (P00009) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-21-D-B100) with four one-year option periods for fire-resistant environment ensemble, operational camouflage pattern, intermediate weather outer layer jackets. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. Locations of performance are Georgia, Arizona, Mississippi, and Washington, D.C., with a Nov. 22, 2023, ordering period end date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory source

GEN III, Layer II T-Shirt Contract Awarded

working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Knox County Association for Remarkable Citizens,** Vincennes, Indiana, has been awarded a $12,572,578 modification (P00007) exercising the second one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-21-D-N140) with two one-year option periods for GEN III, Layer II, mid-weight undershirts. This is a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract. The ordering period end date is Nov. 24, 2023. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Mandatory source

National Industries for the Blind Awarded Combat Helmet Suspension Pad Contract

National Industries for the Blind,** Alexandria, Virginia, has been awarded an estimated $13,860,000 firm-fixed-price requirements contract for Advanced Combat Helmet suspension system pad sets. This is a one-year base contract with four one-year option periods. Locations of performance are Pennsylvania and North Carolina, with a Nov. 17, 2024, performance completion date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-23-D-B002).

**Mandatory source

Thursday is Thanksgiving Day in America

Agathon Associates, will be closed Thursday, November 24th, in celebration of Thanksgiving Day, a major holiday in the United States. All government offices and most businesses will be closed for the day. Many business, other than retail, will also be closed on Friday, the 26th.

“Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor…I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be…”-- George Washington, 1789 (from the first National Thanksgiving Day Presidential Proclamation)

The Pilgrims, Puritans, Huguenots, Quakers, Anabaptists, Lutherans, Jews, Catholics, deists, and even atheists who came to America in the colonial period found here freedom not possible in the lands of the Old World where an established church was the norm. Their descendants founded the United States on a radical and untried principle -- no religious establishment and no government interference with religion. What a surprise then to find that the very first Presidential Proclamation issued was Washington’s Thanksgiving Day call to prayer to Almighty God.

Indeed, the only distinctly American holiday is the fourth Thursday in November, which we set aside to thank God for our blessings. Think about it. Christmas is celebrated worldwide, even in some lands where Christians are a small minority. Every nation celebrates New Year’s Day and the various national holidays commemorating great leaders, important battles, and the date of national founding.

Our distinctly American national holiday is a re-enactment -- and re-interpretation for contemporary multi-ethnic and multi-religious American culture -- of that first Thanksgiving in Plymouth, Massachusetts, celebrated by survivors of the Mayflower passage. And, yet, the story is not narrowly the tale of the Pilgrims. Few Americans are literally Mayflower descendants. Most of us do not trace our roots to the East Midlands of England. Most of us do not follow their reformed Calvinist religion. Nevertheless, their story is the American story. It is the story of families that left their homeland for a better life in America.

Did your people come here on sailing ships in the 17th, 18th, or 19th century? Or were they part of the big steamship migration of the late 19th and early 20th century that filled Boston with Irish and Italians? Or perhaps you are a more recent immigrant. Whenever your people came here and by whatever means, they, and you, are part of the narrative we re-tell every Thanksgiving Day.

The Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) to Meet December 7, 2022

The Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) will hold its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, in College Park, Maryland. The meeting will be open for the public to attend in person or via webinar. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the in-person capacity is limited to 100 persons for public attendees.

The COAC will hear from the current subcommittees on the topics listed below:

1. The Next Generation Facilitation Subcommittee will provide updates on its task forces and working groups, including an update on the progress of the 21st Century Customs Framework (21CCF) and E- Commerce Task Forces. The 21CCF Task Force will provide an update on the work addressed this past quarter, which includes discussions with Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) and some of the discussion drafts of trade-related legislative proposals stemming from the 21CCF Task Force and Focus Group. The Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) 2.0 Working Group will provide an update regarding adding new members to the working group to help focus on the identified gaps and potential solutions for ACE 2.0 Modernization. Finally, the One United States Government (1USG) Working Group will provide updates on some of the discussions held this past quarter pertaining to involvement of PGAs in a trusted trader program, with benefits to the trade stakeholders, as well as single window automation with the PGAs.

2. The Rapid Response Subcommittee will provide updates for the Broker Modernization Working Group, Domestic Manufacturing and Production (DMAP) Working Group, and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Working Group. The Broker Modernization Working Group currently meets monthly with the expectation that recommendations will be developed and submitted for consideration at an upcoming COAC public meeting. The DMAP Working Group meets bi-weekly to obtain input from industry stakeholders on trade enforcement areas affecting domestic manufacturers and producers. The USMCA Working Group has reconvened and meets bi-weekly. The focus of this working group is on Chapter 7 of the trade agreement, specifically the trilateral Committee on Trade Facilitation established pursuant to Article 7.24, which is composed of government representatives of each party to the USMCA.

3. The Secure Trade Lanes Subcommittee will provide updates on its four active working groups: the Cross-Border Recognition Working Group, the Export Modernization Working Group, the In-Bond Working Group, and the Trade Partnership and Engagement Working Group. Recommendations for the committee's consideration are anticipated from the Export Modernization Working Group regarding export-related benefits for Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) partners. The In-Bond Working Group plans to present recommendations for the committee's consideration related to the trade community's proposed regulatory revisions/updates to 19 CFR part 18. The Trade Partnership and Engagement Working Group continues to provide an opportunity for input on CTPAT Trade Compliance program development and implementation from trade members with broad subject matter expertise. The Cross-Border Recognition Working Group continues to work on developing recommendations for the committee's consideration regarding potential changes to the current joint inspection program (Unified Cargo Processing) and has continued its discussions on CBP's CTPAT program and Mexico's Authorized Economic Operator program to ensure alignment and compliance with the mutual recognition arrangement signed in 2014.

4. The Intelligent Enforcement Subcommittee will provide updates on the work completed and topics discussed in its working groups. The Antidumping/Countervailing Duty (AD/CVD) Working Group will provide updates regarding its work and discussions on importer compliance with AD/CVD requirements. The Intellectual Property Rights Working Group (IPRWG) will provide recommendations for the committee's consideration relating to the automation of the CBP detention and seizure process and suggested enhancements to the CBP IPR web page. The Bond Working Group will report on the ongoing discussions and status updates for eBond requirements. The Forced Labor Working Group will submit recommendations for the committee's consideration regarding the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). Meeting materials will be available on November 28, 2022, at: http://www.cbp.gov/trade/stakeholder-engagement/coac/coac-public-meetings.

American Apparel and Footwear Government Contractors Conference

REGISTER NOW -- AAFA GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS CONFERENCE

May 1-2, 2023, Philadelphia, Penn.

More information or to register go to HERE.

Gov. Wolf Announces New Funding to Increase Textile Industry Workers in the Philadelphia Region

On November 10overnor Tom Wolf announced $189,000 in new funding for Delaware Valley Industrial Resource Center (DVIRC) through Pennsylvania’s Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Program (MTTC) to address the need for sewing machine operators in southeastern Pennsylvania’s textile industry through the creation of a Training Collaborative.

Read more HERE

Army and Air Force Contract Awarded to Federal Prison Industries

Federal Prison Industries,** doing business as UNICOR, Washington, D.C., has been awarded a maximum $20,748,291 firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the modular lightweight load carrying equipment hand grenade pouch, flash bang grenade pouch, canteen/general purpose pouch and the M4 two magazine pouch. This is a three-year contract with no option periods. Locations of performance are Indiana, Louisiana and North Carolina, with a Nov. 14, 2025, ordering period end date. Using military services are Army and Air Force. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2026 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (SPE1C1-23-D-F003).

**Mandatory source

Army T-Shirt Contract Awarded

Sawasawa LLC, Los Angeles, California, has been awarded a maximum $8,332,500 modification (P00002) exercising the first one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1515) with four one-year option periods for moisture wicking t-shirts. This is an indefinite-delivery contract. The ordering period end date is Nov. 29, 2023. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2023 through 2024 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Friday, November 11, 2022, is Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States

Friday, November 11, 2022, is Veterans Day, a federal holiday in the United States. National, state, and local government offices will be closed in commemoration. Most businesses will be open.

Q. Which is the correct spelling of Veterans Day?
a. Veterans Day
b. Veteran's Day
c. Veterans' Day

A. Veterans Day (choice a, above). Veterans Day does not include an apostrophe but does include an "s" at the end of "veterans" because it is not a day that "belongs" to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans.

Q. On what day of the week will Veterans Day be observed?

A. Veterans Day is always observed officially on November 11, regardless of the day of the week on which it falls. The Veterans Day National Ceremony, like most ceremonies around the nation, is held on Veterans Day itself. However, when Veterans Day falls on a weekday, many communities choose to hold Veterans Day parades or other celebrations on the weekend before or after November 11 so that more people can participate.

Q. What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

A. Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank LIVING veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.

Q. Why are red poppies worn on Veterans Day, and where can I obtain them?

A. The wearing of poppies in honor of America's war dead is traditionally done on Memorial Day, not Veterans Day. For information on how to obtain poppies for use on Memorial Day, contact a veterans service organization, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) or The American Legion, as a number of veterans organizations distribute poppies annually on Memorial Day.

George Mason University hackathon winners unveil solutions to fight global counterfeiting

George Mason University’s Terrorism, Transnational Crime and Corruption Center (TraCCC) announced the winners of the 2022 Bring Down Counterfeiting Public Policy Hackathon, held Nov. 5 at the Homeland Security Investigations Innovation Lab in Arlington. The event challenged teams from U.S. and international academic institutions, companies, and other affiliations to develop innovative ideas to improve public-private collaborations against the industry-wide global challenge of counterfeiting.

Read more HERE.

United States and Taiwan to Hold Meetings on U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade in New York City

On November 8 and 9, 29022, the United States and Taiwan, under the auspices of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO), will hold in-person conceptual discussions on the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade in New York City.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) will lead the U.S. delegation as the designated representative of AIT. The U.S. delegation will also include representatives from the National Economic Council, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Treasury, the Small Business Administration, and the Food and Drug Administration.

Assistant United States Trade Representative Terry McCartin will serve as the lead USTR official.

These meetings will be closed press.

Background

On June 1, 2022, Deputy United States Trade Representative Sarah Bianchi and Taiwan Minister-Without-Portfolio John Deng met virtually under the auspices of AIT and TECRO to launch the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade, which is intended to develop concrete ways to deepen the economic and trade relationship, advance mutual trade priorities based on shared values, and promote innovation and inclusive economic growth for our workers and businesses, including through new trade agreements.

On August 17, 2022, the United States and Taiwan, under the auspices of AIT and TECRO, announced the negotiating mandate for formal trade negotiations under this new initiative. The negotiating mandate can be found here and includes a robust agenda for negotiations aimed at reaching agreements on trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, strong anti-corruption standards, enhancing trade between our small and medium enterprises, deepening agriculture trade, removing discriminatory barriers to trade, digital trade, robust labor and environmental standards, as well as ways to address distortive practices of state-owned enterprises and non-market policies and practices.

The United States will continue to consult with Congress and key stakeholders like labor, business, environmental groups, and others throughout the negotiations.

Dulles CBP Finds Nearly $80k in Counterfeit Clothing in Passenger Baggage from Cameroon

On October 28, 2022, CBP officers seized more than 100 pieces of clothing bearing 25 designer brand names that if authentic, would have been valued at $77,034 MSRP

More information and photos HERE.

Clarks Americas Recalls Women’s Navy Blue Canvas Shoes Due to Chemical Hazard

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