Again, thanks for the replies. I won't return it to the store because a) it's not their fault the manufacturer can't figure out how to print straight; b) it's a fair drive (1.5 - 2 hrs, depending on traffic) to the place for a $7 panel, and it's unlikely I'll make the trip again any time soon; and c) despite that, it's still my favorite quilt store in the Houston area. When I go over there, I usually drop a few hundred dollars, so I know it's not that they'd be upset with me, but since I have made two trips to that side of town in two weeks, I probably won't make it back for two months at least.
I've decided to use the panel with modifications, and I think it will work. I just need to come up with some fabric to make up for the missing bits (isn't that always the case?). If I don't already have something in my stash that will work, I'll either just order something online (the quilt stores on my side of town aren't all that great) or I'll dye something.
Could be worse, because after staring at this thing for a day and a half, I think I can work around it. I just shouldn't HAVE to, know what I mean?