Here is an update on liquor smuggling that may help folks traveling on U.S. planes:
We bought some duty free rum in Mo-bay and had it wrapped well (also got a pocket pint of Rum for Rum and cokes on the plane).
We hauled the boxed liquor as a carry-on, no problems on the flight from JA to Dallas.
BUT
When we were preparing to board our in-U.S. flight from Dallas to Madison WI, we were told all liquids had to be in a checked bag.

BTW No one cares/has said anything regarding booze in your 3.5 oz liquid bottles that you can "carry-on".
Worst case scenario it's confiscated like my JA "Wata" bottle I forgot I had in my backpack carry-on.