This Amendment Number Nine shall be binding and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns.  THIS AMENDMENT NUMBER NINE SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, AND GOVERNED BY, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT TO THE CONFLICT OF LAWS PRINCIPLES THEREOF (EXCEPT FOR SECTION 5-1401 OF THE NEW YORK GENERAL OBLIGATIONS LAW WHICH SHALL GOVERN).
governing laws