Testimonial for Lori Ward, LAW Ventures LTD

Since February 2024, we—John Crane, Joe Crane, and Robbie Crane—have had the distinct pleasure of collaborating with Lori Ward on several pivotal EV-related projects for the Hawk Auto Group and Golf Mill Automotive Group. Lori's exceptional expertise has revolutionized our approach to navigating the intricate challenges of ComEd and EPA grant initiatives, enabling our dealerships to fully capitalize on these valuable programs.

Lori's strategic guidance has delivered remarkable financial benefits across our network. In under 12 months, her efforts have helped secure significant incentives and grants, including:

• $196,000 utility incentive for Golf Mill Chevrolet in Niles
• $196,000 utility incentive for Chevrolet Jeep in Forest Park
• $640,000 Illinois EPA grant (to be awarded upon full installation)

These achievements, amounting to $1,032,000, underscore her ability to expedite and secure substantial funding efficiently.

In addition to these successes, Lori played a crucial role in bringing the dealer opportunity with ComEd to the forefront. Her initiative in this area has been instrumental in unlocking new rebates that have further benefited our operations. Beyond her success with direct funding, Lori has also excelled at facilitating reimbursements, streamlining the setup of infrastructure under the ComEd rebate program, and leveraging her extensive network to connect us with key partners such as EV Energy Group LLC (John Truckenbrod) and Christopher B. Burke Engineering (John P. Caruso, PE). These strategic collaborations have not only simplified our processes but have also added immense value to our projects.

Lori's industry experience, specialized EV training, and multiple certifications make her an invaluable consultant at every phase of our initiatives. Her exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment to excellence have consistently impressed our ownership, general managers, staff, general contractors, vendors, and subcontractors alike. She has skillfully coordinated efforts across all levels of our organization and external partners, ensuring smooth operations and timely project completions.

Moreover, Lori's proficiency in commercial real estate and project management has been critical in guiding our construction projects. Her ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and drive projects forward is a testament to her comprehensive skill set. Her long-standing dedication to sustainability—evident in her status as an ICC-approved contractor since 2015 and her recent ICC EV certification—aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Thanks to her expert counsel, our dealerships have implemented a range of eco-friendly solutions, from energy-efficient lighting to state-of-the-art EV charging infrastructure, positioning us at the forefront of the automotive industry's green revolution.

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue leveraging Lori's expertise in our upcoming VW and Cadillac new dealership build projects slated for 2025 and 2026. Her proven track record in managing complex stakeholder dynamics will be vital as we undertake these ambitious projects. Additionally, Lori will play an essential role in reviewing and optimizing our EV and lighting needs across all Hawk and Golf Mill locations, further enhancing our operational efficiency and sustainability initiatives.

We are deeply grateful for Lori's continued support and wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone in need of a knowledgeable, dedicated, and sustainability-focused partner in the EV industry.