Cook Illinois Stock Option Agreement is a legally binding contract entered into between America Online, Inc. (AOL) and MapQuest. Com, Inc. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions regarding stock options granted by AOL to MapQuest. Com, Inc. as part of their partnership or acquisition agreement. The Cook Illinois Stock Option Agreement enables MapQuest. Com, Inc. to purchase a specified number of shares of AOL's common stock at a predetermined price within a set period. This option provides MapQuest. Com, Inc. the opportunity to invest in AOL's equity and potentially benefit from the future growth and success of the company. Various types of Cook Illinois Stock Option Agreements may exist between America Online, Inc. and MapQuest. Com, Inc., including: 1. Standard Stock Option Agreement: This agreement allows MapQuest. Com, Inc. to purchase AOL's common stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price, within a defined period of time. 2. Incentive Stock Option Agreement: This specific type of option agreement provides MapQuest. Com, Inc. with additional tax advantages compared to the standard stock option agreement. Incentive stock options encourage long-term employee retention and offer potential tax savings for employees. 3. Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement: Unlike the incentive stock option agreement, the non-qualified stock option agreement does not offer the same tax advantages. However, it provides more flexibility to MapQuest. Com, Inc. in terms of eligibility, exercise price, and exercise period. 4. Restricted Stock Option Agreement: This type of agreement requires MapQuest. Com, Inc.'s employees to meet certain conditions, such as fulfilling a specific employment period or achieving predetermined performance targets, before exercising the stock options. The purpose behind this is to incentivize long-term commitment and reward employees for achieving established goals. The Cook Illinois Stock Option Agreement between America Online, Inc. and MapQuest. Com, Inc. signifies a strategic partnership or acquisition that aims to provide MapQuest. Com, Inc. with an opportunity to invest in AOL's growth and align their interests in maximizing the value of the company. This agreement fosters a collaborative relationship and serves as a tool for attracting and retaining talent while jointly pursuing long-term success in the industry.