Lens Hood Not Included, Lens Hood Included, Lens Hood Not Included

When the Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM Lens was announced, we understood that the lens hood and pouch were not included. As usual for a non-L lens.
 
On November 21, we published a news announcement noting the apparent inclusion of a lens hood and case with the purchase of this lens. The accessories were (and still are) listed in the "What's in the Box" section of the product page at both B&H and Adorama. A B&H rep informed us that this information was sourced directly from Canon.
 
Yesterday, via PetaPixel, Chuck Westfall, Technical Advisor for Canon USA advised otherwise:

"EF35mm f/2 IS USM lenses imported by Canon USA will not be supplied with lens hood or pouch, as confirmed by our sales group. If the dealers in question are offering the lens with these accessories in the box, it would most likely be a gray market item."

Robert P. Luckett, a Canon Public Relations Specialist, has confirmed this news for us:

"We have double checked and confirmed that Canon U.S.A. is not providing a soft carrying case, or lens hood with the 35mm F/2 IS lens."

While everyone is still not on the same page, we are going to go with Chuck and Rob on this one. Oh well...at least we are still getting center-pinch lens caps!