This is the first time, to our knowledge, that a proprietary credit card has been accepted on the AOL service.

This alliance will be focusing on delivering solutions for our customers, in areas where Sears is strong and we can leverage our great brands in Craftsman and Kenmore, with us realizing that we cannot do this all ourselves.

Communication with customers is key. Trying to understand what their issues are, let them know what's going on. They really, really appreciate that.

We intend to proceed ahead with AOL as our partner in these areas, and we will also look at other things in which both companies can work together on.

We're not putting out dollar figures, but we expect this to significantly enhance the number of visitors to our e-commerce sites, the number of customers, and obviously, our revenue.

Memorial service arrangements are still being made, and his friends and family would appreciate privacy during this difficult time.