[Vision2020] "Stella Awards"; was Interesting stuff

[Jim Wallis]

At least 2 sites refer to these "Awards" as hoaxes.
http://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/hoaxes/hoax5.asp?HName=Stella+Awards+Hoax
is one, the other 
http://www.northwestern.edu/observer/issues/2004-01-08/juries.html.

Further, for a quick factual summary of Stella Liebeck and McDonalds, see
http://www.atla.org/ConsumerMediaResources/Tier3/press_room/FACTS/frivolous/McdonaldsCoffeecase.aspx

Which quotes the Wall Street Journal
The Wall Street Journal wrote (September 1, 1994), "The testimony of Mr. [Christopher] Appleton, the McDonald's executive, didn't help the company, jurors said later. He testified that McDonald's knew its coffee sometimes caused serious burns, but hadn't consulted burn experts about it. He also testified that McDonald's had decided not to warn customers about the possibility of severe burns, even though most people wouldn't think it possible. Finally, he testified that McDonald's didn't intend to change any of its coffee policies or procedures, saying, 'There are more serious dangers in restaurants.' "

Or try
http://www.citizen.org/congress/civjus/tort/myths/articles.cfm?ID=785
As a result of her injuries, Ms. Liebeck spent eight days in a hospital. In that time she underwent expensive treatments for third-degree burns including debridement (removal of dead tissue) and skin grafting. The burns left her scarred and disabled for more than two years. Before a suit was ever filed, Liebeck informed McDonald's about her injuries and asked for compensation for her medical bills, which totaled almost $11,000. McDonald's countered with a ludicrously low $800 offer.

Jim Wallis