NEW YORK -- Editor's note: Sears today responded to this story with the following statement: "The quote [see story, below], during a panel discussion, was simply unfortunate wording on Alan's part. It is not at all the way he feels, and Alan sincerely apologizes for the misstatement. He knows that the United States has the best-educated workforce in the world. Translation...
"Alan is sorry that his quote was published for all the SERFS to see, BEFORE the final implementation of the proposals were completed! He knows now that the US buyter may take a little "street justice" out on his company in the form of a boycott, and his Stock Options may take a hit as a result of this being published!"