Cowboys avoid fine for controversial celebration that football fans love



The confusing saga continues surrounding a Dallas Cowboys tradition that happens almost every year.

During a spectacular 31-28 Thanksgiving win against the Kansas City Chiefs, Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson somehow avoided a fine for performing a controversial celebration, but he may have gotten off on a technicality.

'Nothing like a Zeke being dropped into one of our kettles!'

As announced by tattoo-laden singer Post Malone, the Cowboys continued their Thanksgiving- and Christmas-season partnership with the Salvation Army. This included the tradition of placing giant red kettles behind the endzones, directly in front of the first row of fans.

During the third quarter, Ferguson seemingly tapped his toes into the endzone for an epic touchdown, ran over to one of the kettles at AT&T Stadium, and jumped in. No flag was thrown on this play for excessive celebration, and the NFL has not announced any fines.

However, this is where things get confusing.

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Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott climbed into a Salvation Army kettle after a touchdown run in the second quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Richard W. Rodriguez/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

After a lengthy review, Ferguson's touchdown was overturned and taken off the scoreboard, adding another curveball to an already convoluted situation given that the kettle celebration has been overlooked by the NFL at times, while also resulting in fines in some instances.

In 2024, the kettle's use in post-touchdown antics caused such a stir that Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown boldly made the claim that the league was baiting players into getting fined.

With four kettles placed around the field, Brown apparently couldn't help but jump into one during a matchup against the Cowboys. He was subsequently fined $5,481 by the NFL for unsportsmanlike conduct.

The enforcement surrounding the celebration has been about as inconsistent as imaginable, dating back to former Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott performing the act in 2016. That year, the celebration was so well received it even garnered praise from the Salvation Army.

"Nothing like a Zeke being dropped into one of our kettles!" the organization wrote on X, then Twitter.

Strangely, the following year the NFL started its own confusing tradition of going back and forth on punishing the celebration.

RELATED: Salvation Army gives perfect response to reporter who ripped Ezekiel Elliott's epic TD celebration

ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 23: Dallas Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland (26) jumps into the Salvation Army Kettle after returning an interception for a touchdown during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders on November 23, 2023 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

In 2017, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Justin Coleman jumped into one of the kettles after returning an interception for a touchdown; he was not fined but got penalized during the game.

In 2018 though, Elliott performed the celebration again, but this time was fined $13,369 by the NFL.

Fast-forward to 2022 when the NFL managed to confuse players and fans even more. A Whac-a-Mole celebration in late November had three Cowboys players get into a kettle and see no discipline at all. One week later, the Cowboys, including Elliott, used a kettle in a different unique celebration. This time, participants Elliott and quarterback Dak Prescott were fined $13,261 for unsportsmanlike conduct.

On Thanksgiving 2023, a seemingly preplanned celebration that involved four Cowboys players eating turkey legs that were inside a kettle did not result in any fines.

As the confusing tradition continues, the Salvation Army did not make mention of the celebration on its X account in 2025. The charity showcased only its partnership with the Cowboys, sharing a video of the aforementioned Post Malone.

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12 American-made Christmas gift ideas



Though you’re probably still recovering from a tryptophan-induced slumber, it’s officially that time of the year again. Christmas is nearly upon us, which means it’s a great time to start thinking about gift ideas for your loved ones.

And why not support proud American businesses while enjoying the Christmas season with your family? Whether you’re looking for handmade jackets and boots or artisan tools and gadgets, we found some of the best American companies and their offerings. Give them a gift that will last a lifetime from companies that embody the American spirit.

From heirlooms to stocking stuffers at a variety of price points, here are 12 of our top picks of made-in-the-USA products that will never fail to impress.

1. Billykirk

Billykirk

Based in Jersey City, New Jersey, Billykirk was founded in 1999 by the brothers Chris and Kirk Bray. Self-proclaimed pioneers of the Made in America movement, the Bray brothers have been longtime giants in the revitalization and support of the American leather industry. Focused on producing leather products that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, Billykirk has always been committed to the intersection of art and utility. The No. 155 Card Case is one of the company's original designs, tracing back to the beginning of the company and showcasing the brothers’ artful expertise for enriching everyday products. MSRP: $95.00

Visit Billykirk’s website for more gift ideas.

2. Bullhide Belts

Bullhide Belts

Bullhide Belts, a proud U.S. manufacturer based in Ohio, shows meticulous attention to detail and lives up to its commitment to quality. With a promise of “buckle to tip excellence,” Bullhide Belts’ craftsmen have been at work since 2010, delivering a superior belt with full-grain leather that many people have come to love. The Admiral Belt, available in widths of 1.25” and 1.5” and in black, brown, and medium brown, is a timeless accessory designed to effortlessly transition from the boardroom to weekend casual. The company also crafts a variety of other leather goods, including wallets, cellphone holsters, rifle slings, and much more. MSRP: $69.99

Visit Bullhide Belts’ website for more gift ideas.

3. Sullivan Glove Company

Sullivan Glove Company

Sullivan Glove Company is one of only three glove companies left that still makes everything in the USA with American materials. Sullivan prides itself on ensuring that its customers are not supporting the many unsavory practices common in the textile industry. The company sources and handcrafts its leather from American deer, elk, buffalo, and goat, all from its headquarters in Bend, Oregon. Pictured is the golden Elk Roper, which is tough enough for most types of work but also versatile enough for everyday use. MSRP: $95.00

Visit Sullivan Glove Company’s website for more gift ideas.

4. All American Clothing

All American Clothing

All American Clothing’s story speaks volumes in the wide and terrible seas of outsourcing and globalization. The company's founder, Lawson Nickol, initially worked as a sales manager at another denim manufacturing company; however, one day, he found out at a store that his old company was outsourcing labor to Mexico. The discovery filled him with sadness for the American job loss. Acting immediately on principle, he quit his comfortable job and launched All American Clothing. His new company is committed to sourcing and manufacturing its products 100% in the USA. The high-quality All American Dark Stonewash Boot Cut Jean is but one of the fine fruits of Lawson Nickol’s dedication to his dream. MSRP: $79.95

Visit All American Clothing’s website for more gift ideas.

5. New Balance

New Balance

Independent since 1906, New Balance has always been committed to producing excellent products. New Balance continues to adhere to its mission to stay “fearlessly independent” while delivering the best shoes without compromise. The company's Made in the USA collection boasts the highest-quality shoes it has to offer. This collection is the product of over 75 years of collective expertise and knowledge of the craft. New Balance is also on the cutting edge of cool, as the “dad sneaker” has returned to vogue among hipsters and Zoomers. This collection, dropped in August 2024, explores many subtle color schemes on shoes of the highest-quality material, all — you guessed it — made in the USA. MSRP: $200.00

Visit New Balance’s website for more gift ideas.

6. Quoddy

Quoddy

Quoddy gets its name from the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, originally built in 1808, which in turn derives its name from an Indian word for the area. With over 200 years of history behind its name, Quoddy commits itself to providing the highest-quality, built-to-last boat shoes, moccasins, and other footwear without cutting corners. Quoddy's made-to-order footwear is handcrafted in Maine under the shadow of its namesake. The Quoddy Head Boat Shoe is a perfect example of this company’s adherence to the time-tested wisdom of the craft. Starting from the comfortable and supportive design of the “foot cradle,” Quoddy’s craftsmen then add custom features to make this footwear stylish and durable. MSRP: $249.00.

Visit Quoddy’s website for more gift ideas.

7. Russell Moccasin

Russell Moccasin

Founded in 1898, Russell Moccasin Co. has made a name for itself as the quintessential boot for all types of outdoorsmen. Russell has shod trailblazers, hunters, trappers, hikers, and those at the heights of power and influence, including four U.S. presidents. Named after its founder, William Russell, this company has handcrafted its footwear across three centuries, all from Berlin, Wisconsin. The Backcountry, Russell Moccasin’s flagship boot, promises to accompany any traveler from the sea to the mountaintops with its lightweight yet rugged design. Buying a pair of Backcountry boots is like buying a piece of history for yourself. MSRP: $750.00

Visit Russell Moccasin Company’s website for more gift ideas.

8. Middleton Made Knives

Middleton Made Knives

Founded in 2010 by Quintin Middleton, Middleton Made Knives was built "on faith and a dream.” The realization of a childhood passion for bladesmithing, the company crafts custom, high-carbon steel blades in the small town of Saint Stephen, South Carolina. Quintin is known as the South’s premier bladesmith, even making custom blades by hand for some of America’s top chefs. Middleton Made Knives’ Classic and Signature Collections include a wide variety of culinary blades with bright bursts of color, making the company a perfect example of American artisanry. MSRP: $500.00

Visit Middleton Made Knives’ website for more gift ideas.

9. Silver Stag

Silver Stag

Born from a garage-based hobby more than 20 years ago, Silver Stag has built a nationally respected brand by taking a “step back in time.” Committed to a hands-on approach whereby all knives are fashioned from the ground up in the company's Blaine, Washington, facility, no two blades will be the same. With handles sourced from North American shed antler and hardwoods and blades from high-quality steels, each blade is specialty-made by the small team of skilled workers at the nine-person company. Offering a wide array of knife styles, Silver Stag will have your back when it comes to addressing all your needs — both in hunting and in the kitchen. MSRP: $170.00

Visit Silver Stag’s website for more gift ideas.

10. WeatherWool

WeatherWool

Family-owned and operated since 2009, WeatherWool was founded as a passion project to make luxury wool garments entirely in the USA. Tired of being told that this was impossible, Ralph and Debby DiMeo set out to create their own “hardcore luxury” brand. Sixteen years later, WeatherWool has stayed true to its vision without cutting any corners. So sure are they of the quality of their products that you can find blog videos on their website of Ralph himself battle-testing their jackets in extreme weather. The All-Around Jacket, sourced and manufactured “100%” in the USA, is made from “100% WeatherWool Certified Fine Wool,” a material the company said is 100% worth the premium price tag. MSRP: $985.00

Visit WeatherWool’s website for more gift ideas.

11. Wintergreen Northern Wear

Wintergreen Northern Wear

Wintergreen Northern Wear’s story is just about as American as it gets. The company's flagship fleece and shell anoraks are the products of decades of dedication to developing a high-quality winter jacket for extreme conditions. Field-tested at the North Pole and inspired by local clothing from Inuit and Scandinavian cultures, the anorak was worn by many adventurers on unaided expeditions to the North Pole, unsummited peaks, and in many other extreme environments. With an emphasis on breathable, quality materials, Wintergreen Northern Wear manufactures all its adventure products in the small town of Ely, Minnesota, to this day. MSRP: $339.00

Visit Wintergreen Northern Wear's website for more gift ideas.

12. Red Rooster Camano Coffee Mill & Small Batch Fire Roasted Coffee

This plastic-free, made-in-America hand grinder features several settings for consistent and plentiful grind options, from super fine Turkish to coarse French press. And it’s handsome enough to admire even when at rest, replete (but not too replete) with timeless old-world charm. MSRP: $225.00 (coffee mill) / $20.00 (small-batch, fire-roasted coffee)

Visit Red Rooster’s website for more gift ideas.

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Coca-Cola doubles down on AI ads, still won't say 'Christmas'



Coca-Cola has responded to criticism over its AI-generated commercials with even more AI-generated art.

Following backlash for its AI-generated 2024 "Holidays Are Coming" ad, the company says that this year consumers should react more positively, as AI generation is "going forward."

'Real hard work writing some prompts for AI.'

For 2025, Coke has not only doubled down with its commercial, but tripled down amid criticism. The recent ad, created with Real Magic AI, depicts hosts of anthropomorphized squirrels, rabbits, dogs, and the brand's traditional polar bears. While the ad showed significant improvements since last year, it still has the usual AI follies of non-spinning wheels on Coca-Cola trucks and overdrawn hairlines that could still fool the naked eye.

However, Pratik Thakar, Coca-Cola's head of generative AI, says not to believe the haters.

"Last year people criticized the craftsmanship. But this year the craftsmanship is 10 times better," Thakar said, per Hollywood Reporter. "There will be people who criticize — we cannot keep everyone 100% happy."

Thakar added, "But if the majority of consumers see it in a positive way, it's worth going forward."

One place Coke was certain to receive positive reinforcement was from its own team, which it showcased in a behind-the-scenes video praising its own hard work on the ad.

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The commentary video praised five of Coke's AI specialists for parsing through 70,000 video clips in just 30 days to create the ad. Production used programs like OpenAI's Sora, Google's Veo 3, and Luma AI.

"It really feels like this work is, you know, actively shaping how storytelling is evolving. It shows Coca-Cola really reimagining the creative workflow, especially in this AI era," a female voiceover said.

"They landed on this super expressive hyperrealism, really cinematic scenes," a male voiceover added.

The video poured praise over Coca-Cola's team, which wrote prompts into AI programs about generating a "hyperrealistic panda animation," for example, scouring through generated videos. Refinements and filters were then shown as further examples of the hard work.

"Post-production is the new pre-production. Advanced reasoning models let artists plan and solve them early and making scenes feel real before production locks in," the female voiceover continued. "Combining human creativity with AI to turbocharge expression and imagination, giving creatives more freedom, speed, and control than ever before."

Viewers did not respond with the same positivity, though, even accusing the voiceovers of being AI themselves.

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"Real hard work writing some prompts for AI," a viewer wrote.

"They're acting like this is something they should be proud of," another said.

One viewer called the idea of an "AI voiceover praising this ad compared to the actual human comments who dislike it" the beginning of a dystopian world.

Lost in the criticism of Coca-Cola's shift to nonhuman artists is its continued refusal to mention Christmas. Despite depictions of Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and, of course, Santa Claus, the word Christmas is never displayed or uttered.

Both videos happily displayed all the Americana related to the holiday but were careful never to mention the forbidden words: Merry Christmas.

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Legendary coach calls out NBA for booking games on 'sacred days' like Christmas and Easter



One of the all-time greatest NBA coaches spoke out against the NBA for scheduling games on both Christmas and Easter, calling them sacred days.

On Christmas Day 2024, the NBA had five games scheduled, while Good Friday and Easter Monday each featured two games.

This apparently did not sit well with former coach Phil Jackson, the man who coached Michael Jordan to six championships with the Chicago Bulls.

"Again the NBA tests faith by playing multiple games on Christmas and Easter…sacred days," Jackson wrote on X.

Shockingly, this was just the second time that Jackson had used his social media page in almost seven years, and it was to complain about the NBA's schedule.

Jackson has spoken vaguely about his faith on his timeline in the past, but way back in 2013 and only in reference to movies.

— (@)

It should be noted, however, that the NBA playing games on Christmas is not at all new, as the league began playing games on Christmas Day in 1947, its second season. At the same time, the NBA has reportedly had a five-game schedule for Christmas since 2008. All of this came within Jackson's tenure too; he retired in 2016.

Still, the man of faith clearly has his principles. He is one of the few coaches to take a non-woke approach to the NBA's campaigns and even spoke out in 2023 to say he had not watched the league in years.

"They had things on their back like, 'Justice.' They made a funny thing like, 'Justice just went to the basket and Equal Opportunity just knocked him down.' … So my grandkids thought that was pretty funny to play up those names. So I couldn't watch that," Jackson said at the time.

The legendary bench boss did not approve of the political slogans written on NBA courts, either, and said the move was "trying to cater to an audience or trying to bring a certain audience into play."

Explaining that people want to see sports as "non-political," Jackson mocked the league for its COVID-19 bubble in Orlando, Florida.

"They did something that was kind of wanky; they did a bubble down in Orlando and all the teams that could qualify went down there and stayed down there."

With 11 total championships, Jackson will forever be known as one of the best coaches to walk on a court, with the ability to harness even the biggest personalities. He handled Dennis Rodman, Scottie Pippen, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, and of course Michael Jordan.

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Christianity needs a church with teeth



What is the church to you? Do you go to church to feel closer to God? Is it your sanctuary in a world that’s hurtling deeper and deeper into hell? Does the church make you feel safe?

What if I told you the church isn’t the church? That it can’t functionally act as the body of Christ. Not anymore, at least.

If the church can’t even keep its holy sacraments in order, then what can it realistically accomplish otherwise?

The church today is nothing more than a pretty ornament on a burning Christmas tree.

It exists as it does today to make people feel good. To provide for them a sense of spirituality they yearn for.

But what is spirituality? It means absolutely nothing. It’s a vague, ambiguous cloud of nothingness. It’s a feeling you feel when you tell yourself Jesus lives in your heart.

You wonder why the moral foundations of the world are crumbling? It’s because the church serves as little more than a refuge from a world falling apart. It’s seen as a place of escape rather than the institution of power and influence.

But the church was never supposed to be a retreat. The church was meant to engage with the real world, to shape it, to transform it. God isn’t some ambiguous feeling of connection or an abstract concept. Jesus was the word made flesh, not a disembodied notion of spirituality. The church was meant to operate in the here and now, not hover above reality in some ethereal sense of well-being.

Historically, the church had teeth. It wielded power — not just spiritual power, but real, tangible authority. Popes used to coronate kings, crowning monarchs as divinely sanctioned rulers. This wasn’t limited to the Roman Catholic Church, either; patriarchs in the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches did the same. The state was dependent on the church for its legitimacy, and its doctrines and edicts carried real weight. When the church spoke, it wasn’t a suggestion. It was the voice of authority.

Compare that to today. If a man finds himself served with divorce papers by his wife, what does the church do? It offers prayers, maybe a referral to a good lawyer. But where is its power? Where is its authority to stand against the chaos of the modern world?

As a professor of political theory, Dr. Stephen Baskerville aptly points out in his interview with YouTuber Hannah Pearl Davis that the church today is incapable of providing solutions to the very real crises its members face.

Instead of a priest and his parish showing up to a divorce court and demanding legal standing to object to and prevent a divorce, it merely offers prayers to the soon-to-be separated parties. And if the church can’t even keep its holy sacraments in order, then what can it realistically accomplish otherwise? It’s become toothless.

This decline from authority to ornamentation is at the heart of why our society is crumbling. The church has abdicated its role as the moral and spiritual backbone of civilization. It has retreated into vague notions of spirituality and feel-good sermons, rather than engaging with the world and asserting its rightful place within it.

Until the church reclaims its authority — until it once again becomes the church — it will remain nothing more than a relic of what it was meant to be.

The question isn’t what happened to society. The question is: Why did we separate the church from society?