1.  Define the following as used in the article: 
-coffers (para. 1)
-referendum (para. 3)
-excise tax (para. 3)
-tax exemption (para. 4)

2.  Why are a growing number of cities and states attempting to implement tax on soda?

3.  a) For what reason did a soft-drink bottler offer a $10 million donation for health and recreation programs in Philadelphia?
b)  What additonal motive might the bottling company have for their donation?

4.  How much did the American Beverage Association (ABA) spend on lobbying in 2009, as compared to 2008?

5.  Why do some beverage industry executives worry about the $10 million donation to Philadelphia?

6.  Why have each of the following failed to pass:
-Baltimore's bottle tax
-New York's penny-per-ounce soda tax

7.  a) How much would a soda tax of 2 cents per ounce (as proposed by Philadelphia's mayor) cost you per month?
b)  Would a tax on soda cause you to buy less soda?  Explain your answer.

8.  Do you think taxing soda is a good way to raise money for city and state governments?  Explain your answer.