Question about flying in/out of the US

[soundtest]

I have a connecting flight in Chicago next month and it just occurred to me how much it's going to suck. With all of the insane security measures in place in the states now, I'm not exactly looking forward to this as everyone tells me that US airport security are notoriously rude and anal these days. Anyway, I keep hearing conflicitng stories about what is and is not allowed on flights entering and leaving the US. Does anybody here know for sure? Are mp3 players allowed? Drinks? Matches or a lighter? Cigarettes? Can I wear a digial watch?