Pinching pennies? Then you might have to switch to diet soda if you're in the New York area. NY Governor David Paterson is unveiling a so-called 'obesity' tax of 15 percent on all drinks except milk, juice, diet soda and bottled water. This means, of course, that a one-Litre bottle of regular Coke will cost $1.15, while a same-sized bottle of Diet Coke will cost just $1.00. It doesn't seem like much, but it can really add up.

I like the idea -- and diet soda is sure better for your waistline -- but is it better for you? The jury's still out on that one.

Will it work? In tough financial times (like now), it just might -- people who are addicted to soda might switch to diet to save, if they can stand the taste, that is. But I suspect those who are really addicted to soda will splurge for their favourite brand, tubby tax or not. What do you think?