The Knowledge
The Great American Soda Divide: How Geography Shapes What We Call Our Fizzy Drinks
Last Updated on June 28, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Two smiling young women standing and drinking soda outdoors
Ever wonder why your friend from Chicago calls it “pop” while your cousin in California says “soda”? Or why someone from Atlanta might ask for a “Coke” when they actually want a Sprite? Welcome to one of America’s most fascinating linguistic divides – the regional terminology for carbonated soft drinks.
The Big Three: Soda, Pop, and Coke
Across the United States, three main terms dominate the carbonated beverage conversation, each with its own distinct geographical footprint and cultural identity.
“Soda” – The Coastal Choice
Where it’s used: Northeast, West Coast (especially California), most of Florida, and pockets around Milwaukee and St. Louis
The term “soda” has its roots in “soda water” and represents the more formal, urban approach to naming carbonated beverages. This terminology dominates in major metropolitan areas and coastal regions, reflecting the historical influence of early soda fountains and urban development patterns.
Demographics: Typically used in densely populated urban areas, college towns, and regions with higher levels of formal education. The Northeast corridor from Boston to Washington D.C. is solidly “soda” territory.
“Pop” – The Heartland Standard
Where it’s used: Midwest (Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, Pennsylvania), Mountain West, and Pacific Northwest
“Pop” gets its name from the distinctive sound a bottle makes when opened – that satisfying “pop!” This term reflects the more casual, down-to-earth culture of America’s heartland and has strong ties to working-class communities and rural areas.
Demographics: Predominantly used in smaller cities, rural communities, and blue-collar neighborhoods. The Great Lakes region is the epicenter of “pop” usage, where it’s not just preferred – it’s practically mandatory.
“Coke” – The Southern Phenomenon
Where it’s used: Throughout the American South, with strongest concentration in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and parts of Texas
Perhaps the most unique of the three, “Coke” represents a fascinating linguistic phenomenon where a brand name becomes the generic term for an entire category. In the South, you might hear someone say, “I’ll have a Coke,” followed by “What kind?” – leading to responses like “Dr Pepper Coke” or “Sprite Coke.”
Demographics: This usage spans across all socioeconomic levels in the South but is particularly strong in rural areas and among older generations who remember when Coca-Cola truly dominated the regional market.
The Cultural Stories Behind the Words
These regional differences aren’t just random – they tell the story of American migration, industrialization, and cultural identity.
Historical Migration Patterns: The soda/pop divide often follows the paths of 19th-century migration. German and Scandinavian immigrants who settled the Midwest brought linguistic patterns that favored “pop,” while the more formal “soda” took hold in established Eastern cities.
Industrial Influence: The dominance of “Coke” in the South directly reflects Coca-Cola’s Atlanta headquarters and the company’s early marketing dominance in the region. The brand became so synonymous with carbonated drinks that it absorbed the entire category.
Urban vs. Rural Dynamics: “Soda” tends to cluster around major metropolitan areas, while “pop” dominates in smaller cities and rural areas. This reflects broader cultural patterns about formality, tradition, and regional identity.
The Demographics Tell a Story
Recent linguistic studies reveal interesting demographic patterns:
- Age Factor: Older Americans are more likely to use regionally traditional terms, while younger generations show more mixing due to increased mobility and social media influence.
- Education and Income: Higher education levels correlate with “soda” usage, even in traditionally “pop” regions, possibly due to exposure to more diverse linguistic communities.
- Urban Migration: People who move from rural to urban areas often switch from “pop” to “soda,” while the reverse is less common.
Cheerful young man holding bottle of soda nad showing thumbs up over blue background
Modern Mixing and Future Trends
Today’s America is more mobile than ever, and these linguistic boundaries are becoming more fluid. College campuses often become melting pots where students from different regions negotiate these differences. Social media and national advertising campaigns using terms like “soft drinks” or “beverages” are also creating more neutral ground.
However, regional pride keeps these terms alive. Many people view their soda terminology as a badge of regional identity – something that connects them to their hometown and cultural roots.
Why This Matters
This linguistic divide represents something deeper than just word choice. It reflects how geography, history, and culture shape our daily language in ways we rarely notice. Whether you say “soda,” “pop,” or “Coke,” you’re participating in a rich tradition of American regional identity.
The next time you’re traveling and hear someone use a different term, remember – you’re witnessing American linguistic diversity in action. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll appreciate how something as simple as ordering a fizzy drink can connect us to the fascinating tapestry of American culture.
What do you call it in your region? The great American soda debate continues, one fizzy drink at a time.
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
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podcasts
STM Daily News Podcast Episode 2: Dreambreaker & Phoenix Women’s Expo
In Episode 2 of the STM Daily News Podcast, we explore “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story,” a documentary highlighting pickleball’s rise, and recap the Phoenix Women’s Expo, showcasing community empowerment and collaboration among women entrepreneurs, connecting bold endeavors in sports and business.
Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Welcome back to the STM Daily News Podcast! In Episode 2, we’re diving into two incredible stories that showcase the power of community, determination, and building something from the ground up.
Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story & Phoenix Women's Expo – STM Daily News Podcast
What’s in This Episode
Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story
We’re talking about the documentary that’s got everyone buzzing. Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story premiered on truTV and Max back in April, and it’s so much more than a sports film.
Director Ashley Underwood takes us inside the explosive rise of pickleball through the lens of Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa’s journey. But here’s what makes it fascinating—it’s not just about the game. It’s about billionaire rivalries, the business of professional sports, and how a backyard pastime became a multi-billion-dollar industry practically overnight.
The documentary is raw, authentic, and pulls no punches. If you’re curious about what’s really happening behind the scenes in one of America’s fastest-growing sports, this is essential viewing.
Stream it now on Max or truTV.
Phoenix Women’s Expo 2025
We’re also recapping the Phoenix Women’s Expo from last September, and wow—what an event. Hundreds of women entrepreneurs, business owners, and aspiring leaders gathered right here in the Valley to connect, learn, and support each other.
From inspiring keynote speakers to hands-on workshops covering everything from social media strategy to financial planning, the expo was a masterclass in empowerment and collaboration. The energy in that room was electric, and the connections made will ripple through our community for years to come.
If you missed it, don’t worry—we break down the highlights and why events like this matter for Phoenix’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Common Thread
What connects a pickleball documentary and a women’s business expo? More than you’d think. Both stories are about people who didn’t wait for permission, who built their own platforms, and who understood that community is the foundation of success.
Whether it’s Mike Sleeves creating his voice in pickleball or women entrepreneurs supporting each other’s growth, the message is clear: the best stories are happening right now, in real time, in our own communities.
Listen Now
Episode 2 of the STM Daily News Podcast is available wherever you get your podcasts. We’d love to hear what you think—drop us a message on social media or visit us at TNC.network.
Featured in this episode:
- Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story – A Closer Look
- Debbie Gibson Inspires at the 2025 Arizona Ultimate Women’s Expo
More from STM Daily News:
Produced by TNC Network in Phoenix, Arizona. Telling the stories that matter in our community.
STM Daily News is a multifaceted podcast that explores a wide range of topics, from life and consumer issues to the latest in food and beverage trends. Our discussions dive into the realms of science, covering everything from space and Earth to nature, artificial intelligence, and astronomy. We also celebrate the amateur sports scene, highlighting local athletes and events, including our special segment on senior Pickleball, where we report on the latest happenings in this exciting community. With our diverse content, STM Daily News aims to inform, entertain, and engage listeners, providing a comprehensive look at the issues that matter most in our daily lives. https://stories-this-moment.castos.com/
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Last Updated on October 29, 2025 by Daily News Staff
In a region famous for its scenic highways and vast landscapes, walkable cities might seem rare—but several Western metros are proving that car-free living can thrive even out west. From bustling downtown districts to eco-conscious neighborhoods, these cities are leading the way in pedestrian-friendly design and urban livability.
Based on recent data from WalkScore.com, The Urbanist, and national livability reports, here are the 10 most walkable cities in the Western United States for 2025.
1. San Francisco, California
Walk Score: 88
San Francisco remains the gold standard for walkability in the West. Compact, dense, and full of life, it’s easy to access markets, cafes, and parks without ever starting your car. Neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Mission, and North Beach are pedestrian paradises.
2. Seattle, Washington
Walk Score: 74
Seattle’s hilly terrain hasn’t stopped it from becoming one of America’s most walkable cities. The Emerald City’s neighborhoods—Capitol Hill, Downtown, and Belltown—offer great access to shops, jobs, and transit connections.
3. Portland, Oregon
Walk Score: 76
Portland’s short blocks, mixed-use development, and eco-friendly mindset make it one of the easiest cities in the U.S. to explore on foot. Its downtown core and eastside neighborhoods are a model for urban planners nationwide.
4. Oakland, California
Walk Score: 73
Across the Bay from San Francisco, Oakland has reinvented itself with walkable districts like Uptown and Temescal. Access to BART and a growing local business scene help make the city increasingly foot-friendly.
5. Long Beach, California
Walk Score: 73
With ocean breezes, coastal trails, and a vibrant downtown, Long Beach ranks among California’s most livable—and walkable—coastal cities.
6. Los Angeles, California
Walk Score: 68
While sprawling overall, Los Angeles offers pockets of excellent walkability. Downtown LA, Koreatown, and Santa Monica combine dense housing, entertainment, and transit for an increasingly car-optional lifestyle.
7. Denver, Colorado
Walk Score: 61
Denver’s walkability continues to grow as it invests in mixed-use developments and light rail. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and LoDo are among the most pedestrian-friendly in the Rocky Mountain region.
8. San Diego, California
Walk Score: 59
America’s Finest City combines great weather with improving walkability. Districts like Little Italy, Hillcrest, and the Gaslamp Quarter encourage strolling and outdoor living.
9. Salt Lake City, Utah
Walk Score: 58
While Utah’s capital is known for its mountain access, downtown Salt Lake City is surprisingly walkable—with restaurants, transit, and entertainment within easy reach.
10. Boulder, Colorado
Walk Score: 57
Though smaller than most on this list, Boulder’s downtown and University Hill areas are incredibly walkable. It’s an ideal blend of pedestrian design, public spaces, and natural beauty.
Why These Cities Stand Out
What makes these cities shine isn’t just their sidewalks—it’s their planning philosophy. They emphasize:
Mixed-use zoning that brings housing, work, and leisure together Public transit systems that complement walkability Safe, shaded pedestrian corridors that make walking practical year-round Community design that encourages local shopping and social interaction. These cities prove that even in the car-loving West, walkability and livability can go hand in hand.
As more Americans seek sustainable, connected lifestyles, Western cities are reimagining the way people move. From the hills of San Francisco to the waterfront of Long Beach, these walkable cities are showing that the future of urban living might be best experienced—one step at a time.
For more on how walkability impacts urban development, check out:
Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter. https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/
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The Knowledge
Who Is the Governor of Puerto Rico — and How Does the Role Compare to a U.S. State Governor?
Discover the role of the Governor of Puerto Rico, currently Pedro R. Pierluisi, and how it compares to a U.S. state governor. Learn how Puerto Rico’s territorial status shapes its government and federal relationship.
Last Updated on October 29, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Does Puerto Rico have a Governor?
Yes, Puerto Rico has a governor — just like any U.S. state — but the position carries unique responsibilities and challenges. The current Governor of Puerto Rico, Jenniffer González-Colón, was sworn in on January 2, 2025, following her victory in the 2024 election. She is Puerto Rico’s first female governor from the New Progressive Party (PNP) and a long-time advocate for U.S. statehood.
Before taking office, González-Colón served as Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2017 to 2025 — the island’s only non-voting delegate to Congress. She has built a political reputation for championing economic development, infrastructure repair, and stronger ties with Washington, D.C.
For official information about the governor’s current policies, visit La Fortaleza — Office of the Governor of Puerto Rico.
The Governor’s Role in Puerto Rico’s Government
The Governor of Puerto Rico serves as the head of the island’s executive branch, enforcing laws passed by the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico, managing the budget, and appointing cabinet members and agency heads. The governor also commands the Puerto Rico National Guard and can veto legislation — though the legislature may override the veto with a two-thirds majority.
Jenniffer González-Colón’s Key Priorities
Governor González-Colón entered office amid widespread power grid failures that caused island-wide blackouts at the start of her term. She has pledged to modernize Puerto Rico’s electrical system, strengthen infrastructure, and speed up federal reconstruction funds. (PBS NewsHour)
Her other priorities include:
Economic development and attracting investment to boost job creation. Improving schools, hospitals, and roads to stabilize daily life. Continuing to advocate for Puerto Rico’s statehood, in line with the New Progressive Party’s platform. Strengthening Puerto Rico’s relationship with the U.S. Congress to secure disaster recovery and infrastructure funds.
You can read more about her background and political agenda from AP News and The Christian Science Monitor.
How Puerto Rico’s Governor Differs From a U.S. State Governor
Puerto Rico’s political status as a U.S. territory makes this position unique. While the governor performs similar executive functions to a state governor, Puerto Rico has no voting representation in the U.S. Congress, and its relationship with Washington is defined by the Puerto Rican Federal Relations Act and the 1952 Constitution of Puerto Rico.
As a result, the governor often serves as both a local chief executive and Puerto Rico’s top advocate in Washington, D.C., working to secure funding, inclusion in national programs, and progress on the political status debate.
For additional Puerto Rican perspectives, visit El Nuevo Día, Primera Hora, or NotiCel.
A Role of Leadership and Advocacy
In short, the Governor of Puerto Rico functions much like a U.S. state governor within the island’s internal government — but without the full federal powers or congressional representation that come with statehood.
Governor González-Colón’s leadership will be shaped by how effectively she tackles Puerto Rico’s energy crisis, revitalizes infrastructure, and navigates the ongoing conversation about the island’s future relationship with the United States.
For more updates on Puerto Rico and U.S. territory news, visit STM Daily News.
STM Daily News is a multifaceted podcast that explores a wide range of topics, from life and consumer issues to the latest in food and beverage trends. Our discussions dive into the realms of science, covering everything from space and Earth to nature, artificial intelligence, and astronomy. We also celebrate the amateur sports scene, highlighting local athletes and events, including our special segment on senior Pickleball, where we report on the latest happenings in this exciting community. With our diverse content, STM Daily News aims to inform, entertain, and engage listeners, providing a comprehensive look at the issues that matter most in our daily lives. https://stories-this-moment.castos.com/
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