Borrower forever releases and discharges Lender and its affiliates, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, representatives, attorneys and employees (collectively, the “Released Parties”), and each of them, past and present, from any and all actions, obligations, costs, damages, losses, claims, liabilities and demands of whatever kind and nature which Borrower has had, now has or hereafter may have, arising from or by reason of or in any way connected with any transaction, matter, event or circumstances which occurred or existed prior to the date hereof. It is understood and agreed that this release is not to be construed as an admission of liability on the part of Lender or the Released Parties.