Barack Obama 2013-07-01 2 Appendix A-- Digest of Other White House Announcements The following list includes the President's public schedule and other items of general interest announced by the Office of the Press Secretary and not included elsewhere in this book. July 1 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, arriving in the afternoon. While en route, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Kevin M. Rudd of Australia to congratulate him on his return to office and discuss Australia-U.S. relations. Then, he had a telephone conversation with former Prime Minister Julia E. Gillard to thank her for her work as Prime Minister and wish her well in future endeavors. Also while en route, the President received an intelligence briefing from Deputy National Security Adviser Antony J. Blinken. In the afternoon, upon arrival at Julius Nyere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanazania, the President participated in an arrival ceremony with President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete of Tanzania. Later, at the State House, he and Mrs. Obama participated in an arrival ceremony with President Kikwete and his wife Salma Kikwete. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Janice K. Brewer of Arizona to receive an update on the wildfires affecting her State and offer his condolences to the families of the 19 firefighters who lost their lives in the fire. Also during the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Muhammad Mursi of Egypt to express his concerns about the recent political demonstrations and violence in Egypt and encourage President Mursi to resolve the crisis through the political process. July 2 In the morning, at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the President visited with Embassy personnel and their families. Then, he and former President George W. Bush participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial for the 1998 Embassy bombing. Later, they met with survivors and family members of the victims of the bombing. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Dakar, Senegal. Then, they returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from May 19 through June 14. July 3 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the surveillance activities allegedly conducted by the National Security Agency. Chancellor Merkel also offered her condolences to the families of the 19 firefighters who lost their lives in the wildfires in Arizona. Also during the day, in the Situation Room, the President met with his national security team to discuss the situation in Egypt. July 5 In the morning, the President traveled to Joint Base Andrews, MD. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Camp David, MD. July 6 During the day, the President had a conference call with his National Security Council to discuss the situation in Egypt. Also during the day, the President received an update from Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco on the crash landing of Asiana Airlines Flight 214 in San Francisco, CA. July 7 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. July 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Cabinet Room, he had a Cabinet meeting. Vice President Biden also attended. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Marilyn B. Tavenner, White House staff members, and leaders from the health and technology fields to discuss the role of data and innovation in improving the cost and quality of health care. The White House announced that the President will award the 2012 National Medal of Arts and the National Humanities Medal on July 10. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Tsakhia Elbegdorj as President of Mongolia in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on July 10: Piper A.W. Campbell (head of delegation); and Tomicah Tillemann. The President announced his intention to nominate Wanda F. Felton to be First Vice President of the U.S. Export-Import Bank. The President announced his intention to nominate Dennis V. McGinn to be Assistant Secretary for Energy, Installations, and Environment at the Department of the Navy. The President announced his intention to nominate Tomasz P. Malinowski to be Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Evan Ryan to be Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark B. Childress to be Ambassador to Tanzania. The President announced his intention to nominate Carlos R. Moreno to be Ambassador to Belize. The President announced his intention to appoint Anthony T. Pierce as a member of the District of Columbia Commission on Judicial Disabilities and Tenure. July 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, in Room 350 of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he met with members of the Congressional Black Caucus. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President dropped by the Kids' State Dinner for the winners of the 2013 Healthy Lunchtime Challenge. Later, in the Oval Office, he had separate telephone conversations with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates, and Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar to discuss the situation in Egypt and U.S. relations with their respective countries. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later in the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The President announced his intention to nominate Margaret L. Cummisky to be Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael K. Yudin to be Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the Department of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew W. Barzun to be Ambassador to Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The President announced his intention to nominate John Hoover to be Ambassador to Sierra Leone. The President announced his intention to nominate Crystal Nix-Hines to be U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with the rank of Ambassador. The President announced his intention to nominate John R. Phillips to be Ambassador to Italy and San Marino. July 10 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, he met with his senior advisers. Later, in Room 350 of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he and Vice President Biden met with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will host the 5,000th Daily Point of Light Award ceremony with former President George H.W. Bush at the White House on July 15. The President declared a major disaster in Montana and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by flooding from May 19 through June 3. July 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with Sens. John S. McCain III and Charles E. Schumer to discuss immigration reform. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with the 1963 Loyola University of Chicago Ramblers championship basketball team to honor the 50th anniversary of their championship title and acknowledge their role in breaking down racial barriers. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with the cochairs of the Chinese delegation to the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, Vice Premier Wang Yang and State Councilor Yang Jiechi. In the evening, at the Jefferson Hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee event. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Truong Tan Sang of Vietnam to the White House on July 25. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Antonios Samaras of Greece to the White House on August 8. The President announced the nomination of William W. Nooter to be a judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. July 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss Russian-U.S. relations, counterterrorism cooperation, and the status of former National Security Agency contractor Edward J. Snowden. He also had a telephone conversation with King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to express his warm wishes on the occasion of Ramadan, Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations, and the situation in Syria. The President announced his intention to nominate Gregory D. Winfree to be Administrator of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Rhonda S. Schmidtlein to be a member of the U.S. International Trade Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Angelique M. Crumbly as Assistant Administrator for Management at the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to appoint John B. Nathman as a member of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Naval Academy. The President announced his intention to appoint Rion J. Ramirez as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President declared a major disaster in North Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from May 17 through June 16. The President declared a major disaster in New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from June 28 through July 4. July 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Red Room, the President and Mrs. Obama had lunch with former President George H.W. Bush, former First Lady Barbara Bush, and members of the Bush family. July 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Blue Room, he recorded separate interviews with Spanish language news anchors from the Dallas, TX, Denver, CO, Los Angeles, CA, and New York City media markets. In the afternoon, the President met with Sens. A. Lamar Alexander, Richard M. Burr, Thomas A. Coburn, Thomas R. Harkin, Joseph Manchin III, and Angus S. King, Jr., to discuss Federal student loan rates. The White House announced that the President will welcome the NCAA Champion University of Louisville Cardinals to the White House on July 23. The President announced his intention to nominate Kent Y. Hirozawa and Nancy J. Schiffer to be members of the National Labor Relations Board. July 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks on the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act at the White House on July 18. July 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the situations in Egypt, Iran, and Syria, peace efforts with the Palestinians, and Israel-U.S. security cooperation. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. The President announced his intention to nominate Carolyn Hessler-Radelet to be Director of the Peace Corps. The President announced his intention to nominate Beth Robinson to be Under Secretary for Energy at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Jessica Garfola Wright to be Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Nisha Desai Biswal to be Assistant Secretary for South Asian Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Julia Frifield to be Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Frank A. Rose to be Assistant Secretary for Verification and Compliance at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Scott S. Dahl to be Inspector General of the Department of Labor. The President announced his intention to nominate Timothy M. Broas to be U.S. Ambassador to the Netherlands. The President announced his intention to nominate Adam M. Scheinman to be Special Representative of the President for Nuclear Nonproliferation, with the rank of Ambassador, at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate J. Pius Pietrzyk to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation. July 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. Later, in the East Room, he and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception for the foreign diplomatic corps. The President declared a major disaster in Missouri and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding from May 29 through June 10. July 21 The White House announced that the President will travel to Galesburg, IL, and Warrensburg, MO, on July 24. July 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will travel to Jacksonville, FL, on July 25. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks at the Korean War Veterans Memorial to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean war armistice on July 27. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to South Korea to attend ceremonies commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Korean war armistice in Seoul, South Korea, on July 27: Sung Y. Kim (head of delegation); James D. Thurman; James P. Zumwalt; David F. Helvey; and David R. Stilwell. July 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he met with the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus to discuss issues affecting the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2012 World Series Champion San Francisco Giants to the White House on July 29. July 24 In the morning, the President traveled to Galesburg, IL, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Warrensburg, MO. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Marcel J. Lettre II to be Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Intelligence at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert M. Simon to be Associate Director for Energy and Environment at the Office of Science and Technology Policy. The President announced his intention to nominate Caroline Bouvier Kennedy to be Ambassador to Japan. The President announced his intention to appoint Betty S. Sutton as Administrator of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation. July 25 In the morning, the President traveled to Jacksonville, FL, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he met with Secretary of Transportation Anthony R. Foxx. In the afternoon, the President and Secretary Foxx toured the TraPac Berth 16 facility at JAXPORT's Dames Point Marine Terminal with JAXPORT Interim Chief Executive Officer Roy A. Schleicher, TraPac, Inc., Regional Vice President and General Manager Dennis F. Kelly, and International Longshoremen's Association Local 1408 Representative Fred D. Wakefield. Later, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2013 NCAA women's basketball champion University of Connecticut Huskies to the White House on July 31. The President announced his intention to nominate Tony Hammond to be a Commissioner on the Postal Regulatory Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Donald Lu to be Ambassador to Albania. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert A. Sherman to be Ambassador to Portugal. The President announced his intention to nominate Leslie E. Bains to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. The President announced the nomination of Vince G. Chhabria to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The President announced the nomination of the following individuals to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan: Matthew F. Leitman; Judith E. Levy; Laurie J. Michelson; and Linda V. Parker. The President announced the nomination of James M. Moody, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas. The President declared a major disaster in Minnesota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding from June 20 through 26. July 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Camp David, MD. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chattanooga, TN, on July 30. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to S. Sgt. Ty M. Carter, USA, on August 26. The President declared a major disaster in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding on June 13. The President declared a major disaster in Colorado and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the Royal Gorge Fire from June 11 through 16. The President declared a major disaster in Colorado and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the Black Forest Fire from June 11 through 21. July 27 In the morning, at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the President participated in a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korean war armistice. July 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with senior advisers. In the afternoon, on the patio outside the Oval Office, the President had lunch with former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez, civil rights leaders, and State and local officials to discuss strengthening voting rights. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Toomas Hendrik Ilves of Estonia, President Dalia Grybauskaite of Lithuania, and President Andris Berzins of Latvia to the White House on August 30. July 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with Minister of Justice Tzipora "Tzipi" Livni and Yitzhak Molcho of Israel and Chief Negotiator Saeb Erekat and Mohammed Shtayyeh of the Palestinian Authority to discuss the resumption of direct Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations. U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Special Envoy for Israeli-Palestinian Negotiations Martin S. Indyk, and White House Coordinator for the Middle East Philip H. Gordon also attended. Later, the President traveled to Chattanooga, TN, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Amazon Fulfillment Center, where he toured the facility, met with employees, and participated in an interview with Amazon Kindle Singles editor David Blum. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The President announced his intention to nominate L. Paige Marvel to be a judge on the U.S. Tax Court. The President announced his intention to nominate Kenneth L. Mossman to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Kenneth R. Weinstein to be a member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael L. Connor to be Deputy Secretary at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert O. Blake, Jr., to be Ambassador to Indonesia. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas F. Daughton to be Ambassador to Namibia. The President announced his intention to nominate John L. Estrada to be Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago. The President announced his intention to nominate Philip S. Goldberg to be Ambassador to the Philippines. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael S. Hoza to be Ambassador to Camaroon. The President announced his intention to nominate Noah B. Mamet to be Ambassador to Argentina. The President announced his intention to nominate Eunice S. Reddick to be Ambassador to Niger. July 31 In the morning, at the U.S. Capitol, the President met separately with the House Democratic Caucus and the Senate Democratic Caucus. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The President announced his intention to nominate France A. Cordova to be Director of the National Science Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate Sarah Bloom Raskin to be Deputy Secretary at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Sylvia I. Garcia to be Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Jo E. Handelsman to be Associate Director for Science at the Office of Science and Technology Policy. The President announced his intention to nominate Gregory B. Starr to be Assistant Secretary for Diplomatic Security at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Karen C. Stanton to be Ambassador to Timor-Leste. The President announced his intention to nominate Amy J. Hyatt to be Ambassador to Palau. August 1 In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Members of Congress to discuss programs conducted under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Later, in the East Room, he hosted a reception honoring the 50th anniversary of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel and President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority to discuss the Middle East peace process and commend their leadership in resuming final status negotiations. The President announced his intention to nominate John A. Koskinen to be Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Deborah Lee James to be Secretary of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to nominate J. Christopher Giancarlo to be a Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael P. O'Rielly to be a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Patrick Pizzella to be a member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to nominate R. Gil Kerlikowske to be Commissioner of Customs at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Frank G. Klotz to be Under Secretary for Nuclear Security and Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Sarah Sewall to be Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Suzanne E. Spaulding to be Under Secretary for National Protection Programs at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Kathryn D. Sullivan to be Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Karen Dynan to be Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter J. Kadzik to be Assistant Attorney General for Legislative Affairs at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Anne W. Patterson to be Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Linda A. Spoonster Schwartz to be Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Stevan E. Bunnell to be General Counsel at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Steven Croley to be General Counsel at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard F. Griffin to be General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Deborah A.P. Hersman to be a member and Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Christopher A. Hart to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Dwight L. Bush, Sr., to be Ambassador to Morocco. The President announced his intention to nominate Pamela K. Hamamoto to be U.S. Representative to the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva, with the rank of Ambassador. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew T. Harrington to be Ambassador to Lesotho. The President announced the nomination of Michelle T. Friedland and John B. Owens to be judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Nancy L. Moritz to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Gary L. Blankinship to be U.S. marshal for the Southern District of Texas. The President announced the nomination of Robert L. Hobbs to be U.S. marshal for the Eastern District of Texas. The President announced the nomination of Amos Rojas, Jr., to be U.S. marshal for the Southern District of Florida. The President announced the nomination of Peter C. Tobin to be U.S. marshal for the Southern District of Ohio. The President announced the nomination of Christopher R. Cooper to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The President announced the nomination of Daniel D. Crabtree to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. The President announced the nomination of M. Douglas Harpool to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. The President announced the nomination of Sheryl H. Lipman to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. The President announced the nomination of Gerald A. McHugh, Jr., and Edward G. Smith to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from June 21 through 28. August 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President will travel to Phoenix, AZ, on August 6. The President declared a major disaster in Texas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by an explosion from April 17 through 20. The President declared a major disaster in South Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from June 19 through 29. The President declared a major disaster in Florida and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from July 2 through 7. The President declared a major disaster in New Hampshire and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and landslides from June 26 through July 3. The President declared a major disaster in Vermont and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from June 25 through July 11. August 3 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Camp David, MD. Later, he received a briefing from National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice and Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco on preparedness efforts in response to indications that the Al Qaida terrorist organization or its affiliates were planning to attack U.S. citizens or installations, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, or South Asia. August 4 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Los Angeles, CA, on August 6 and 7. The White House announced that the President will travel to Camp Pendleton, CA, on August 7. August 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with senior advisers. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President met with former Negro League baseball players. August 6 In the morning, the President traveled to Chandler, AZ, arriving in afternoon. In the afternoon, the President and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Shaun L.S. Donovan traveled to Erickson Construction, where they toured the facilities. Then, he traveled to Phoenix, AZ. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Burbank, CA. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. In the evening, the President traveled to the Hilton Woodland Hills hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will travel to Orlando, FL, on August 10. August 7 In the morning, the President traveled to Camp Pendleton, CA. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss the situations in Syria and Egypt and offer Prime Minister Erdogan and the Turkish people his best wishes on the beginning of the Ramazan Bayrami holiday. Also during the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya to express his support following the fire at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi and commemorate the 15th anniversary of the terrorist bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks at the Lincoln Memorial as part of the "Let Freedom Ring" ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28. The White House announced that the President will travel to Stockholm, Sweden, on September 4 and 5. The White House announced that the President will travel to St. Petersburg, Russia, to attend the Group of Twenty (G-20) summit on September 5 and 6. August 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Martha's Vineyard, MA, on August 10. The President announced his intention to appoint Alfred Valenzuela, Isaac N. "Ike" Skelton IV, and Libby H. O'Connell as members of the World War I Centennial Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Mark Hertling and Anthony M. Robles as members of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. The President announced his intention to appoint Matrice Ellis-Kirk as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President announced his intention to appoint Bruce Cole as a member of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commission. The President declared a major disaster in Wisconsin and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and mudslides from June 20 through 28. August 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara as President of Paraguay in Asuncion, Paraguay, on August 15: Ernest J. Moniz (head of delegation); James H. Thessin; Miriam Sapiro; and Francisco J. Sánchez. August 10 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Orlando, FL. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Martha's Vineyard, MA, where, upon arrival, they traveled to their vacation residence in Chilmark, MA. August 12 In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. The President announced his intention to appoint Carla A. Harris as Chairperson of the National Women's Business Council. The President announced his intention to appoint S. Fitzgerald Haney and Beth Heifetz as members of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. August 13 In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Nancy's Restaurant & Snack Bar in Oak Bluffs, MA, where he bought lunch and visited with staff and patrons. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 1973 Super Bowl Champion Miami Dolphins to the White House on August 20 to honor them for their historic undefeated 1972 season. August 14 In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. August 15 In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a conference call briefing with his national security team to discuss the situation in Egypt and Egypt-U.S. relations. August 16 In the morning, the President had an intelligence briefing and also received an update on the situation in Egypt. August 17 Over the weekend, the President had a telephone conversation with Vice President Joe Biden to discuss the health of the Vice President's son Joseph R. "Beau" Biden III. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha will return to Washington, DC, on August 18. August 18 In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC. August 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with senior advisers. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with Comptroller of the Currency Thomas J. Curry, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Richard A. Cordray, Federal Housing Finance Agency Acting Director Edward J. DeMarco, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke, Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chairman Gary S. Gensler, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Chairman Martin J. Gruenberg, National Credit Union Administration Board Chairman Deborah Matz, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Mary Jo White, Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew, and senior advisers to discuss strengthening the financial system, implementation of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, housing reform, interagency coordination, and the Federal budget. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to S. Sgt. Ty M. Carter, USA, on August 26. The White House announced that the President will travel to Buffalo, NY, and Syracuse, NY, on August 22. August 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry, Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel, and other members of his national security team to discuss the situation in Egypt. During the day, the President received a briefing on the wildfires affecting Western States. The White House announced that the President will travel to Binghamton, NY, on August 23. The White House announced that the President and Vice President Joe Biden will travel to Scranton, PA, on August 23. August 21 In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President had a video teleconference with directors of State-based health insurance exchanges, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, and other administration officials to discuss implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. August 22 In the morning, the President traveled to Buffalo, NY. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Rochester, NY, where, at Magnolia's Deli and Cafe, he and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan had lunch and participated in a roundtable discussion on college affordability with a group of students and parents. Then, he traveled to Seneca Falls, NY, where he toured the Women's Rights National Historical Park Visitor Center, greeted park visitors and staff, and presented the center with a copy of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 and a signed copy of his remarks delivered at the bill signing ceremony. Later, he traveled to Syracuse, NY. Also in the afternoon, the President was briefed by White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough on the disruption of the NASDAQ stock exchange resulting from a computer malfunction. In the evening, at Henninger High School in Syracuse, NY, the President recorded an interview with Chris Cuomo of CNN's "New Day" program for later broadcast. Later, he traveled to Auburn, NY, where he remained overnight. August 23 In the morning, the President traveled to Binghamton, NY, arriving in the afternoon. While en route, he stopped at Tully Central High School in Tully, NY, where he greeted members of the girls' and boys' soccer teams. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Scranton, PA. While en route, he stopped at Bingham's Family Restaurant in Lenox, PA, where, joined by Sen. Robert P. Casey, Jr., he greeted patrons and employees and purchased pies. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. August 24 In the morning, in the Situation Room, the President met with the National Security Council to discuss the reported use of chemical weapons near Damascus, Syria, by the Syrian Government on August 21 and review options for a response. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons, and options for a response by the international community. August 25 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. Also during the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, Jr., of California to receive an update on the wildfires in California, express his gratitude for firefighters and first responders, and reiterate his commitment to providing Federal support for ongoing State and local response efforts. August 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with African American religious leaders to discuss the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom and how civil rights and equality affect education, employment, health care, and voting. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with the 2013 Urban Debate National Tournament champions. Then, also in the Oval Office, he recorded separate interviews with Tom Joyner and Sybil Wilkes of the "Tom Joyner Morning Show" and Yolanda Adams of "The Yolanda Adams Morning Show." In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Kevin M. Rudd of Australia to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. August 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., met with mayors from around the country to discuss efforts to reduce youth violence. In the evening, in the East Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. August 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Ambassador Donald E. Booth, U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan. In the afternoon, in the Blue Room, the President recorded an interview with Gwen Ifill and Judy Woodruff of PBS's "NewsHour" program for later broadcast. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a U.S. response. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a U.S. response. August 29 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. The President announced his intention to appoint Milford W. Donaldson as Chairman of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The President announced his intention to appoint Clement A. Price as Vice Chairman of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The President announced his intention to appoint Harry P. Hallock and Tom Robinson as members of the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. The President declared a major disaster for the Karuk Tribe and ordered Federal aid to supplement tribal efforts in the area affected by a wildfire from July 29 through August 2. August 30 In the morning, in the Situation Room, the President met with his national security team to discuss the situation in Syria. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. In the evening, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers to discuss the situation in Syria. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the continued violence in Syria, the reported use of chemical weapons by its Government on August 21, and options for a response by the international community. The President announced his intention to appoint Gerd F. Glang as Commissioner of the Mississippi River Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Lynnae M. Ruttledge as a member of the Commission on Long-Term Care. The President announced his intention to appoint James J. Zogby as a member of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. August 31 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the situation in Syria. September 2 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Sen. John S. McCain III to discuss the situation in Syria. In the evening the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to discuss the use of chemical weapons in Syria and Japan-U.S. relations. September 3 In the morning, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Members of Congress to discuss the situation in Syria. In the afternoon, in the Private Dinning Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. In the evening, the President traveled to Stockholm, Sweden, arriving the following morning. The President announced his intention to appoint Huban A. Gowadia as Director of the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint Geoffrey L. Haskett as a Commissioner of the U.S. Section of the U.S.-Russia Polar Bear Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Gary Frazer as an Alternate Commissioner of the U.S. Section of the U.S.-Russia Polar Bear Commission. The President announced the appointment of Douglas Frantz as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of State. September 4 In the morning, at the Stockholm Arlanda Airport, the President participated in an arrival ceremony with Deputy Prime Minister Jan Bjorklund of Sweden, other Swedish Cabinet members, and U.S. Ambassador to Sweden Mark F. Brzezinski and his wife Natalia. Then, he traveled to the Grand Hotel in Stockholm. In the afternoon, the President visited the KTH Royal Institute of Technology campus library, where he and Prime Minister John Fredrik Reinfeldt toured a renewable energy research exposition. Then, he returned to the Grand Hotel. In the evening, the President traveled to the Sager House, official residence of the Prime Minister, where he had dinner and participated in a family photo with Prime Minister Reinfeldt, President Sauli Niinistö of Finland, Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt of Denmark, Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg of Norway, and Prime Minister Sigmundur David Gunnlaugsson of Iceland. Later, he returned to the Grand Hotel, where he remained overnight. The President declared a major disaster in Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from August 8 through 14. September 5 In the morning, the President traveled to the Royal Palace in Stockholm, where he met with King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden. Later, he traveled to Saint Petersburg, Russia, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Constantine Palace complex in St. Petersburg, where he participated in an official arrival ceremony with Group of Twenty (G-20) leaders. Then, he attended a G-20 working session. In the evening, the President traveled to the Grand Peterhof Palace, where he had a working dinner with G-20 leaders. Later, he returned to the Constantine Palace complex, where he remained overnight. September 6 In the afternoon, in the Constantine Palace-Marble Hall, the President participated in a second G-20 working session on investing in growth and job creation. On the margins of the session, he met with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Syria. Then, he participated in a photo opportunity with G-20 leaders. Later, he had a working lunch with G-20 leaders. In the evening, the President traveled to the Crowne Plaza St. Petersburg Airport hotel. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will welcome Amir Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah of Kuwait to the White House on September 13. The President announced his intention to appoint Gina S. Farrisee as Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and Administration at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to appoint Megan H. Mack as an Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint Melissa Savage and C. Kenneth Smith as members of the Board of Directors of the Valles Caldera Trust. The President announced his intention to appoint David Sanders as Chairman of the Commission To Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the Commission To Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities: Theresa M. Covington; Patricia M. Martin; Michael R. Petit; Jennifer Rodriguez; and David Rubin. The President announced his intention to appoint Rosemary A. Joyce as a member of the Cultural Property Advisory Committee. The President announced his intention to appoint Alice T. Germond and Azita Raji as members of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President declared a major disaster in Missouri and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding from August 2 through 14. September 7 In the afternoon, the President received an update from White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough on the administration's ongoing consultations with Members of Congress on the reported use of chemical weapons in Syria. Over the weekend, the President had separate telephone conversations with Members of Congress to discuss the reported use of chemical weapons in Syria. September 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the reported use of chemical weapons in Syria. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he stopped by a meeting between National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice and members of the Congressional Black Caucus. Later in the afternoon, the President recorded separate interviews with Savannah Guthrie of NBC's "Today" program, Wolf Blitzer of CNN's "The Situation Room" program, Scott Pelley of CBS's "Evening News" program, Chris Wallace of Fox's "Fox News Sunday" program, Diane Sawyer of ABC's "World News" program, and Gwen Ifill of PBS's "NewsHour" program, all for later broadcast. September 10 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, he had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom and President François Hollande of France to discuss Russia's proposal to place Syria's chemical weapons under international control. In the afternoon, at the U.S. Capitol, the President had separate meetings with the Senate Democratic Caucus and the Senate Republican Conference. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with senior administration officials to discuss preparedness efforts and the overall security posture in advance of the 12th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The President announced his intention to nominate Beth F. Cobert to be Deputy Director for Management at the Office of Management and Budget. The President announced his intention to nominate Sloan D. Gibson to be Deputy Secretary at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Heather A. Higginbottom to be Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate James H. Shelton III to be Deputy Secretary of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Jo Ann Rooney to be Under Secretary of the Navy. The President announced his intention to nominate Paul N. Jaenichen, Sr., to be Administrator of the Maritime Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate David Weil to be Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division at the Department of Labor. The President announced his intention to nominate John P. Carlin to be Assistant Attorney General for National Security at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Bradley Crowell to be Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard G. Frank to be Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced his intention to nominate Esther P. Kia'aina to be Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael D. Lumpkin to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Christopher A. Smith to be Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Puneet Talwar to be Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Jay Williams to be Assistant Secretary for Economic Development at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Jamie M. Morin to be Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Victoria M. Baecher Wassmer to be Chief Financial Officer at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Larry E. André, Jr., to be Ambassador to Mauritania. The President announced his intention to nominate Anthony L. Gardner to be U.S. Representative to the European Union. The President announced his intention to nominate Helen Meagher La Lime to be Ambassador to Angola. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael A. Lawson to be U.S. Representative on the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization. The President announced his intention to nominate Luis G. Moreno to be Ambassador to Jamaica. The President announced his intention to nominate George J. Tsunis to be Ambassador to Norway. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel W. Yohannes to be U.S. Representative to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Barbara J. Lee and Mark Meadows to be U.S. Representatives to the 68th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. The President announced his intention to nominate Elizabeth Frawley Bagley, Theodore Strickland, and Stephen N. Zack to be Alternate U.S. Representatives to the 68th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. September 11 In the morning, on the South Lawn, the President, Mrs. Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and his wife Jill participated in a moment of silence to mark the 12th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Later, he traveled to Arlington, VA. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. In the afternoon, at Food and Friends, the President participated in a service project. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister-designate Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to congratulate him on his coalition's victory in recent parliamentary elections and discuss Australia-U.S. relations and the situation in Syria. He also had a telephone conversation with outgoing Prime Minister Kevin M. Rudd of Australia to thank him for his friendship, leadership, and support of Australia-U.S. relations and discuss the situation in Syria. September 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Enrico Letta of Italy to the White House on October 16. The President announced his intention to nominate Cynthia H. Akuetteh to be Ambassador to Gabon and Sao Tome and Principe. The President announced his intention to nominate Eric T. Schultz to be Ambassador to Zambia. The President announced his intention to nominate David J. Arroyo to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The President announced his intention to nominate Camilla C. Feibelman to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation. The President announced his intention to appoint Leslie G. Bowman and Wendy A. Cooper as members of the Committee for the Preservation of the White House. The President declared a major disaster in Colorado and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides beginning on September 11 and continuing. September 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Library, he recorded an interview with George Stephanopoulos of ABC's "This Week" program for later broadcast. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Vice President Biden met with labor leaders. The White House announced that the President will travel to Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia, and the Philippines from October 6 through 12. September 14 In the morning, the President received a briefing from National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice on international diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation in Syria. He also had separate telephone conservations with U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power and Secretary of State John F. Kerry to discuss Russia's proposal to place Syria's chemical weapons under international control. September 15 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. John W. Hickenlooper of Colorado to receive an update on the severe flooding, express his condolences for the loss of life and concern for those still missing, commend the work of first responders in affected communities, and reinforce his commitment to providing Federal assistance to State and local response efforts. The President declared a major disaster in Colorado and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides beginning on September 11 and continuing. September 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with senior advisers. In the morning and throughout the day, the President was briefed by Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco and Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco on the shooting at the Washington Navy Yard. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Secretary of the Navy Raymond E. Mabus to express his condolences to the families and colleagues of the victims of the Navy Yard shooting and commend the Navy personnel and local law enforcement who worked with Federal authorities in responding to the situation. He also called Federal Bureau of Investigation Director James B. Comey, Jr., to express his gratitude for the FBI's quick response to the shooting, receive an update on the ongoing investigation, and commend the FBI and all Federal agencies involved for their coordination with local officials during the ongoing response. Also during the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil to discuss their recent meeting in St. Petersburg, Russia, the postponement of President Rousseff's planned October 23 state visit to the U.S., and Brazil-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the scheduled Musica Latina event will be postponed out of respect for the victims of the shooting at the Washington Navy Yard and their families. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to the White House on September 30. The White House announced that the President will present the Medal of Honor to Capt. William D. Swenson, USA, on October 15. September 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Also in the afternoon, the President received a briefing on the September 16 shooting at the Washington Navy Yard from Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., Federal Bureau of Investigation Director James B. Comey, Jr., and members of his national security team. The White House announced that the President will travel to Liberty, MO, on September 20. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Ibrahim Boubacar Keita as President of Mali in Bamako, Mali, on September 19: Mary Beth Leonard (head of delegation); Linda Thomas-Greenfield; and Jack Leslie. The President announced his intention to nominate Tamara W. Ashford to be a judge on the U.S. Tax Court. The President announced his intention to nominate Leslie R. Caldwell to be Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal Division at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard Stengel to be Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the Department of State. September 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The President announced the appointment of the following individuals as members of the President's Export Council: Kenneth C. Frazier; Andrés R. Gluski; Marillyn A. Hewson; Vanessa Keitges; Ian C. Read; Virginia M. Rometty; and Arne M. Sorenson. September 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. In the afternoon, at the Capital Hilton hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. The White House announced that the President will attend a memorial ceremony for shooting victims and deliver remarks at the Marine Barracks Washington, DC, on September 22. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City on September 23 and 24. The President announced his intention to nominate Bruce A. Heyman to be U.S. Ambassador to Canada. The President announced his intention to nominate Kathryn B. Thomson to be General Counsel at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Kevin Whitaker to be U.S. Ambassador to Colombia. The President announced his intention to nominate Charles N.W. Keckler to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint Jim Powell as Representative of the United States to the Southern States Energy Board. The President announced the nomination of Cynthia A. Bashant to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California. The President announced the nomination of Stanley A. Bastian to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. The President announced the nomination of the following individuals to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona: Diane J. Humetewa; Steven P. Logan; Douglas L. Rayes; and John J. Tuchi. The President announced the nomination of Jon D. Levy to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Maine. The President announced the nomination of Manish S. Shah to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. September 20 In the morning, the President traveled to Liberty, MO, where, at the Ford Motor Co. stamping plant, where he toured manufacturing facilities with Ford Motor Co. President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally, Stamping Plant Launch Manager Todd Jaranowski, and UAW Local 249 President Jeff Wright and visited with employees. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. September 22 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya to extend his condolences for the loss of life in the September 21 terrorist attack at Westgate Shopping Mall in Nairobi, Kenya. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to the Marine Barracks Washington, DC, where they met with family members of employees killed in the September 16 shooting at the Washington Navy Yard. September 23 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to New York City, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to congratulate her on her party's victory in the September 22 elections. In the evening, the President traveled to the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, where, in the Jade Room, he met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power, and other staff at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations. Then, in the Starlight Roof, he and Mrs. Obama attended a reception for visiting heads of state and government attending the U.N. General Assembly. September 24 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to United Nations Headquarters, where he met with U.N. General Assembly President John W. Ashe. In the afternoon, at United Nations Headquarters, the President met with U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Largo, MD, on September 26. The President announced his intention to nominate Steven J. Anthony to be a member of the Railroad Retirement Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Susan McCue to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Debra L. Miller to be a member of the Surface Transportation Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Catherine A. Novelli to be Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment at the Department of State. The President announced the nomination of Mark G. Mastroianni and Indira Talwani to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The President announced the nomination of David J. Barron to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. September 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with his senior advisers. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with mayors, county officials, and State legislators to discuss implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The President announced his intention to appoint Marcelite Harris and Arlen D. Jameson as members of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The President announced his intention to appoint Elizabeth Young McNally and Patrick J. Murphy as members of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Military Academy. The President announced his intention to appoint Sally Susman as a member of the Library of Congress Trust Fund Board. The President announced the nomination of Theodore D. Chuang and George J. Hazel to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The President declared a major disaster in North Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from July 3 through 13. September 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Largo, MD. Later, he returned to the Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. In the evening, in the Gallatin Room of the Jefferson hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee event. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Mohammad Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan to the White House on October 23. The President announced his intention to nominate Dana J. Hyde to be Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark E. Lopes to be U.S. Executive Director of the Inter-American Development Bank. The President announced his intention to appoint Renée J. James as a member of the President's National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as general trustees on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: Frank F. Islam; Amalia Perea Mahoney; Shonda L. Rhimes; David M. Rubenstein; Alexandra C. Stanton; and Walter F. Ulloa. September 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Hassan Rouhani of Iran to discuss Iran-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the Department of the Interior on November 13. The President declared a major disaster in Santa Clara Pueblo and ordered Federal aid to supplement tribal recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from July 19 through 21. September 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid, Senate Minority Leader A. Mitchell McConnell, Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to discuss raising the public debt limit and avoiding a Federal Government shutdown. The President announced his intention to nominate Alan L. Cohen and Lanhee J. Chen to be members of the Social Security Advisory Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas R. Nides to be Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The President announced his intention to nominate Laura Paulson to be a member of the Committee for the Preservation of the White House. The President announced his intention to nominate Quyen D. Chu and Anhlan P. Nguyen to be members of the Board of Directors of the Vietnam Education Foundation. The President declared a major disaster in New Mexico and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from July 23 through 28. October 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he was briefed by Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew, Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco on the Federal Government shutdown and the public debt limit. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius met with citizens who will benefit from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Philippines to discuss the cancellation of his visit to the Philippines due to the Federal Government shutdown and inform President Aquino that Secretary of State John F. Kerry would travel to the Philippines in his place. Also in the evening, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mohamed Najib bin Abdul Razak of Malaysia to discuss the cancellation of his visit to Malaysia to attend the Global Entrepreneurship Summit. He also informed Prime Minister Najib that Secretary of State Kerry would lead a U.S. delegation to the summit including Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker and U.S. Trade Representative Michael B. Froman. The President declared a major disaster in Pennsylvania and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from June 26 through July 11. October 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he was briefed by Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew, Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco on the Federal Government shutdown and the public debt limit. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Vice President Biden met with members of the Financial Services Forum to discuss the need to raise the public debt limit. Then, in the Private Dining Room, he and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid, Senate Minority Leader A. Mitchell McConnell, Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, and Secretary of the Treasury Lew to discuss the Federal Government shutdown and the public debt limit. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with senior advisers. October 3 In the morning, the President was briefed on preparations for Tropical Storm Karen. Then, he traveled to Rockville, MD. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Also in the afternoon, the President was briefed on the shooting outside the U.S. Capitol. In the evening, the President was briefed on preparations for Tropical Storm Karen. Also in the evening, he had a telephone conversation with President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia to discuss the cancellation of his visit to Indonesia to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit due to the Federal Government shutdown and inform President Yudhoyono that Secretary of State John F. Kerry would attend the summit in his place. Also in the evening, he had a telephone conversation with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei to discuss the cancellation of his visit to Brunei to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit and the East Asia Summit. He also informed Sultan Hassanal that Secretary of State Kerry would attend the summits in his place. October 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Also in the morning, he was briefed on preparations for Tropical Storm Karen. In the afternoon, the President and Vice President Biden visited Taylor Gourmet restaurant, where they purchased lunch, greeted patrons, and thanked restaurant staff for offering a discount to furloughed Federal employees. Later, he was briefed by Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco, and other senior advisers on the impacts of the Federal Government shutdown. The President announced his intention to nominate Arnold A. Chacon to be Director General of the Foreign Service at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Arun M. Kumar to be Assistant Secretary for International Trade Administration and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel B. Smith to be Assistant Secretary for Intelligence and Research at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Helen Tierney to be Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Management at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Kelly R. Welsh to be General Counsel at the Department of Commerce. October 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President was briefed by Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco, and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. October 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner to discuss raising the public debt limit and ending the Federal Government shutdown. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. During the day, the President was briefed by Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II, and other senior advisers on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. October 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Library, he recorded separate interviews with Doreen Gentzler of WRC in Washington, DC; Rick Williams of WPVI in Philadelphia, PA; Keith Cate of WFLA in Tampa, FL; and Tracy Sears of WTVR in Richmond, VA. Then, in the East Room, he and Vice President Biden met with members of the House Democratic Caucus. October 10 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister John P. Key of New Zealand to thank him for chairing the meeting of Trans-Pacific Partnership leaders in Bali, Indonesia, on October 8 and discuss outcomes from the meeting. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, they were briefed by Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II, and and other senior advisers on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later, in the State Dining Room, they met with members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, they met with the leadership of the House Republican Conference. October 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, they were briefed by Office of Management and Budget Director Sylvia Mathews Burwell, White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, and other senior advisers on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. Then, in the State Dining Room, he and the Vice President met with members of the Senate Republican Conference. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a conference call with a bipartisan group of 25 Governors to discuss raising the public debt limit and the impact of the Federal Government shutdown on State budgets and the economy. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with small-business owners to discuss the public debt limit and the impact of the Federal Government shutdown on their businesses and thank them for their work to create jobs and invest in their communities. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a conference call with 150 business leaders to discuss the public debt limit and the ongoing Federal Government shutdown. Later, also in the Oval Office, he, Mrs. Obama, and their daughter Malia met with Malala Yousafzai, a 16-year-old Pakistani student and education activist who was shot in the head and neck by Taliban gunmen in the Pakistan's Swat Valley on October 9, 2012. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to Capt. William D. Swenson, USA, on October 15. October 12 In the afternoon, the President met with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid and Sens. Charles E. Schumer, Richard J. Durbin, and Patricia L. Murray. During the day, the President was briefed by White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. October 13 In the afternoon, the President was briefed by White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II, and other senior advisers on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to discuss the on going Federal Government shutdown and the public debt limit. October 14 In the morning, at Martha's Table, Inc., the President met with furloughed Federal employees who spent their time volunteering for charities during the Federal Government shutdown. He also helped prepare food to be distributed to the needy. In the afternoon, the President was briefed by White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough and other senior advisers on the impact of the Federal Government shutdown. October 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he recorded separate interviews with Diana Williams of WABC in New York City; Kevin Cooney of KCCI in Des Moines, IA; and Claudia Botero of KMEX in Los Angeles, CA. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with the leadership of the House Democratic Caucus. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. October 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki of Iraq to the White House on November 1. October 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with Prime Minister Enrico Letta of Italy. October 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway to congratulate her on taking office and discuss the situation in Syria and Norway-U.S. relations. October 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss France-U.S. relations, alleged surveillance of French citizens by the National Security Agency, and the situation in Syria. The President announced the designation of Patricia E. Campbell-Smith as Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. October 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City on October 25. October 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss Germany-U.S. relations and allegations that her telephone communications had been monitored by the National Security Agency. The White House announced that the President will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House on November 20. The President declared a major disaster in Kansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding from July 22 through August 16. October 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, at the Jefferson hotel, the President participated in an event hosted by the Democratic National Committee's Women's Leadership Forum. The President announced his intention to appoint Luke J. McCormack as Chief Information Officer at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint Edmund J. Malesky as a member of the Board of Directors of the Vietnam Education Foundation. The President announced his intention to appoint Elisa Spungen Bildner, John Farahi, and Dana M. Perlman as members of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. October 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to New York City, where, at the Pathways in Technology Early College High School, he toured a classroom and met with teachers and students. In the evening, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. The President declared a major disaster for the Santa Clara Pueblo and ordered Federal aid to supplement tribal recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from September 13 through 16. October 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss diplomatic efforts with Iran, Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, and other regional issues. In the afternoon, on the South Lawn, the President recorded an interview with ABC News's Jim Avila for the Fusion network's "AMERICA With Jorge Ramos" program for later broadcast. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will travel to Boston, MA, on October 30. October 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with chief executive officers from the financial, energy, defense, and information technology sectors on strengthening cybersecurity and critical infrastructure. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2013 Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks to the White House on November 4. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert C. Barber to be U.S. Ambassador to Iceland. The President announced his intention to nominate Nani A. Coloretti to be Chief Financial Officer at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Bathsheba N. Crocker to be Assistant Secretary for International Organization Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Jonathan Elkind to be Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark D. Gilbert to be U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand. The President announced his intention to nominate Joseph S. Hezir to be Chief Financial Officer at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Tina S. Kaidanow to be Coordinator for Counterterrorism, with the rank of Ambassador at Large, at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate William A. LaPlante, Jr., to be Assistant Secretary for Acquisition at the Department of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to nominate Theodore R. Mitchell to be Under Secretary of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Massie Ritsch to be Assistant Secretary for Communications and Outreach at the Department of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Charles H. Rivkin to be Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Rhea S. Suh to be Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife at the Department of the Interior. The President declared a major disaster in North Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides on July 27. The President declared a major disaster in New Mexico and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and mudslides from September 9 through 22. October 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Boston, MA. En route to Faneuil Hall, he stopped at City Hall Plaza, where he was joined by William F. Russell, former center, National Basketball Association's Boston Celtics, to preview a new statue of Mr. Russell in honor of his lifetime achievements. Later, he traveled to Weston, MA. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. October 31 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Senator-elect Cory A. Booker of New Jersey. Later, on the South Portico, he, Mrs. Obama, and his mother-in-law Marian Robinson greeted trick-or-treaters. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon of Colombia to the White House on December 3. The President declared a major disaster in North Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm on October 4 and 5. November 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President was briefed by Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco on the shooting at Los Angeles International Airport. November 3 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Arlington, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. November 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with John E. Farrell, manager of Major League Baseball's Boston Red Sox, to congratulate him on his team's eighth World Series Championship. Later, he met with Special Envoys for Guantanamo Closure Clifford Sloan, for the Department of State, and Paul M. Lewis, for the Department of Defense, to discuss the closing of the detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay Naval Station. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Dallas, TX, on November 6. November 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Blue Room, he and Mrs. Obama made a surprise drop-by visit with White House tour guests. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he and Vice President Biden met with business leaders to discuss immigration reform and the economy. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, he traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he visited with wounded U.S. military personnel and their families. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with Governor-elect Terence R. McAuliffe of Virginia and Mayors-elect Bill de Blasio of New York City and Martin J. Walsh of Boston, MA, to congratulate them on their election victories. The White House announced that the President will travel to New Orleans, LA, and Miami, FL, on November 8. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the Department of the Interior on November 13. November 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with Democratic Senators to discuss the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Christopher J. Christie of New Jersey to congratulate him on his reelection. Later, he traveled to Dallas, TX. In the evening, the President traveled to Highland Park, TX. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. The President announced his intention to nominate Colleen Bradley Bell to be Ambassador to Hungary. The President announced his intention to nominate Madelyn R. Creedon to be Principal Deputy Administrator for Nuclear Security at the National Nuclear Security Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Janice M. Schneider to be Assistant Secretary for Land and Mineral Management at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Joseph W. Westphal to be Ambassador to Saudi Arabia. The President announced his intention to nominate Ellen Dudley Williams to be Director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Joseph P. Mohorovic to be Commissioner of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. November 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Sen. John S. McCain III to discuss immigration reform legislation. Then, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, he recorded an interview with Chuck Todd of NBC News for later broadcast. In the evening, in the Family Theater, the President hosted a screening of the film "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom." The White House announced that the President will welcome King Mohammed VI of Morocco to the White House on November 22. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas P. Beaudreau to be Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas A. Burke to be Assistant Administrator for the Office of Research and Development at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Neil G. Kornze to be Director of the Bureau of Land Management at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Caroline D. Krass to be General Counsel of the Central Intelligence Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Ericka M. Miller to be Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education at the Department of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Stefan M. Selig to be Under Secretary for International Trade at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to appoint Cheryl D. Alston and Dallas L. Salisbury as members of the Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced the nomination of James D. Peterson to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The President announced the nomination of Nancy J. Rosenstengel to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. The President announced the nomination of Ronnie L. White to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. The President announced the nomination of Kevin W. Techau to be U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Iowa. The President announced the nomination of Robin S. Rosenbaum to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. November 8 In the morning, the President traveled to New Orleans, LA, where he toured the Napoleon Container Terminal with Secretary of Transportation Anthony R. Foxx, Rep. Cedric L. Richmond, Gov. Piyush "Bobby" Jindal, Mayor Mitchell J. Landrieu, Port of New Orleans president and chief executive officer Gary P. LaGrange, Ports America Louisiana general manager Keith Palmisano, and International Longshoremen's Association stevedore Chris Hammond. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Miami, FL. Upon arrival, he traveled to Coral Gables, FL, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to the Hilton Miami Downtown hotel, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent continued nuclear weapons development in Iran. The President declared a major disaster in South Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm, and flooding from October 3 through 16. November 9 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. November 11 In the morning, in the East Room, the President hosted a Veterans Day breakfast for veterans and their families. Vice President Joe Biden also attended. Later, they traveled to Arlington, VA, where they participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Mrs. Obama and Jill T. Biden, wife of Vice President Biden, also attended. Later, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. November 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Philippines to express his condolences for the damage and loss of life caused by Super Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines on November 8. They also discussed U.S. assistance in the recovery effort. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situations in Iran, Afghanistan, and Syria. Later in the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with tribal leaders attending the White House Tribal Nations Conference on November 13. In the afternoon, at Molly Malone's restaurant, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch with PO Katie Cole, USCG; Lt. (jg.) Courtney Williams, USN; Cpl. Jason Davis, USMC; Senior M. Sgt. Cynthia Gamez, USAF; and Sfc. Angel Febus Munoz, USA. Later, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Biden met with military leadership and combatant commanders. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President hosted a dinner for military leadership, combatant commanders, and their spouses. Mrs. Obama, Vice President Biden, and his wife Jill also attended. Also in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid to discuss implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and other issues. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cleveland, OH, on November 14. The White House announced that the President will travel to Philadelphia, PA, on November 14. November 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss shared security interests, including international diplomatic efforts to prevent continued nuclear weapons development in Iran. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with religious leaders to discuss immigration reform. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom on November 20. November 14 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Cleveland, OH, where he toured the ArcelorMittal Cleveland steelmaking facility and met with employees. Later, he traveled to Philadelphia, PA. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Henry J.F. Korrell III and Victor B. Maddox to be members of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Debo P. Adegbile to be Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Marc A. Kastner to be Director of the Office of Science at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark E. Lopes to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate Vivek H. Murthy to be Surgeon General at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced his intention to nominate Franklin M. Orr, Jr., to be Under Secretary for Science at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Susan L. Graham and J. Michael McQuade to be members of the President's Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. November 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Giorgi Margvelashvili as President of the Republic of Georgia in Tbilisi, Georgia, on November 17: Rajiv J. Shah (head of delegation); Richard B. Norland; Paige E. Alexander; and Thomas O. Melia. November 16 During the day, in the State Dining Room, the President met with participants in a leadership program for young professionals in Government. November 17 In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to College Park, MD, where, at the Comcast Center, they attended a men's basketball game between the University of Maryland and Oregon State University, where Mrs. Obama's brother Craig M. Robinson serves as head basketball coach. November 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with senior advisers. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The President announced his intention to nominate Linda Thomas-Greenfield to be a member of the Board of Directors of the African Development Foundation. The President announced his intention to appoint Edith Ramirez and Geovette E. Washington as members of the Council of the Administrative Conference of the United States. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities: Janet Keller; Kerry J. Marshall; Kalpen S. Modi; Andrew J. Weinstein; and John L. Young. November 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with Sens. Richard J. Durbin, Charles E. Schumer, Saxby Chambliss, Robert P. Corker, Jr., Michael D. Crapo, Dianne Feinstein, Timothy P. Johnson, Carl M. Levin, Robert Menendez, and John S. McCain III to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent continued nuclear weapons development in Iran. Secretary of State John F. Kerry and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice also attended. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with 2013 U.S. Nobel Laureates and their spouses to congratulate them on their contributions to physics, medicine, and economics and show them White House memorabilia of interest. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The President announced his intention to appoint Stephanie Cutter and Caroline "Kim" Taylor as members of the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities The President announced his intention to appoint Margaret Russell as a general trustee of the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Mary Menell Zients as Chair of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. November 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Arlington, VA, where, at Arlington National Cemetery, they and former President William J. Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton participated in a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy. Then, he and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. Later in the afternoon, the President met with representatives from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to discuss the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and related issues. November 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, he signed S. 330, the HIV Organ Policy Equity Act. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he dropped by a meeting between Vice President Biden and Prime Minister Robert Fico of Slovakia. Later in the afternoon, in the State Dining Room, the President met with the President's Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. Then, in the East Room, he participated in a photo opportunity with the fall class of White House interns. The President announced his intention to nominate Brad R. Carson to be Under Secretary of the Army. The President announced his intention to nominate Maureen E. Cormack to be Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The President announced his intention to nominate Leslie Berger Kiernan to be Representative of the United States to the United Nations for U.N. Management and Reform, with the rank of Ambassador. The President announced his intention to nominate David Radzanowski to be Chief Financial Officer of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate John Roth to be Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard A. Kennedy to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. The President announced his intention to nominate Heather L. MacDougall to be a member of the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Anita K. Blanchard as a member of the Committee for the Preservation of the White House. The President announced his intention to appoint Gargee Ghosh and John D. Podesta as members of the President's Global Development Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Ira F. Jaffe as Chair of Presidential Emergency Board No. 244. The President announced his intention to appoint Roberta Golick and Arnold M. Zack as members of Presidential Emergency Board No. 244. The President announced the nomination of Andrew M. Luger to be U.S. attorney for the District of Minnesota. The President announced the nomination of Damon P. Martinez to be U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico. The President announced the nomination of Sherry Moore Trafford and Steven M. Wellner to be judges on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. The President announced the appointment of Alan J. Patricof as a member of the President's Global Development Council. November 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Blue Room, he and Mrs. Obama recorded an interview with Barbara Walters of ABC's "20/20" program for later broadcast. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with student representatives from the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship business innovation program. Later, in the Situation Room, he participated in a video conference with U.S. Peace Corps volunteers stationed in Tanzania. He was joined in the Situation Room by Peace Corps Acting Director Carolyn Hessler-Radelet, Special Olympics Chief Executive Officer Timothy P. Shriver, former Sen. Harris L. Wofford, Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Washington Board Chair Laura Mariko Schmitz, and National Peace Corps Association President Glenn Blumhorst. During the meeting, he observed a moment of silence to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with King Mohammed VI of Morocco to discuss Morocco-U.S. relations and U.S. support for Morocco's democratic and economic reforms. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, and White House Coordinator for the Middle East Philip H. Gordon. The White House announced that the President will hold the Thanksgiving turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House on November 27. The White House announced that the President will travel to Seattle, WA, on November 24. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Francisco and Los Angeles, CA, on November 25. November 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent continued nuclear weapons development in Iran and Israel-U.S. security cooperation. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Seattle, WA. Later, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to Medina, WA. Later, he traveled to the Westin Seattle Hotel in Seattle, where he remained overnight. November 25 In the morning, the President traveled to San Francisco, CA, where, at the San Francisco International Airport, he was greeted by Sen. Dianne Feinstein. In the afternoon, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. In the evening, the President traveled to Beverly Hills, CA. Later, he traveled to the Beverly Hilton hotel, where he remained overnight. November 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Los Angeles, CA, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. Then, he traveled to Glendale, CA, where, at DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc., he toured studio facilities and visited with employees. Later, also at DreamWorks, he met with film industry representatives. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President declared a major disaster in Nebraska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, winter storms, tornadoes, and flooding from October 2 through 6. The President declared a major disaster in Illinois and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes on November 17. November 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent continued nuclear weapons development in Iran and Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President signed H.R. 1848, H.R. 3204, and S. 252. Later, at the Capital Area Food Bank, he, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha participated in a service event. November 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had separate telephone conversations with 10 members of the Armed Forces to thank them for their service. November 29 In the morning, at the North Portico, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha received the White House Christmas tree. Then, on the National Mall, he and Mrs. Obama visited with participants in a Fast for Families demonstration on behalf of immigration reform. November 30 In the afternoon, at Politics and Prose Bookstore, the President and his daughters Malia and Sasha visited with patrons and purchased books to promote Small Business Saturday. December 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. December 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President had a working lunch with President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon of Colombia. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. December 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. December 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with his senior advisers. In the afternoon, in the Greenberg Theatre at American University, the President recorded an interview with Chris Matthews of MSNBC's "Hardball With Chris Matthews" program for later broadcast. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Jacob G. Zuma of South Africa to express his condolences on the death of former President Nelson R. Mandela and discuss South Africa-U.S. relations. The President announced his intention to appoint Kevin T. Hanretta as Assistant Secretary for Operations, Security, and Preparedness at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to appoint Paula E. Boggs as a member of the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. The President announced his intention to appoint Robin L. Diamonte as a member of the Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint John Donahoe as a member of the President's Export Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Eugenio Piñeiro-Soler as a U.S. Commissioner to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas. The President announced his intention to appoint Laura M. Ricketts and Reginald Van Lee as general trustees on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. December 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Graça Machel, wife of former President Nelson R. Mandela of South Africa, to express his condolences for the death of her husband. December 8 In the evening, at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the President and Mrs. Obama attended the 2013 Kennedy Center Honors Gala. December 9 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Dakar, Senegal, arriving in the evening. Former President George W. Bush, former First Lady Laura Bush, and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton accompanied them aboard Air Force One. Then, they traveled to Centurion, South Africa, arriving the following morning. December 10 In the morning, upon arrival at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Centurion, South Africa, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton, Johannesburg in Johannesburg. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to First National Bank Stadium in Johannesburg. Later, they returned to the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton, Johannesburg. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Dakar, Senegal, arriving the following morning. Former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush accompanied them aboard Air Force One. The President announced the designation the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to Kenya to attend a ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Republic of Kenyain Kasarani, Kenya, on December 12: Robert F. Godec (head of delegation); and Linda Thomas-Greenfield. December 11 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. Former First Lady Laura Bush accompanied them aboard Air Force One. December 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy Brey of Spain to the White House on January 13. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas E. Rothman to be a member of the National Council on the Arts. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter A. Selfridge to be Chief of Protocol at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Douglas A. Silliman to be Ambassador to Kuwait. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert A. Wood to be U.S. Representative to the United Nations Conference on Disarmament. The President announced his intention to nominate Portia Y. Wu to be Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Administration at the Department of Labor. December 13 The President declared a major disaster in California and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the Rim Fire from August 17 through October 24. December 14 In the morning, in the Map Room, the President and Mrs. Obama lit 26 candles and observed a moment of silence to commemorate the first anniversary of the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT. December 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, they met with U.S. Trade Representative Michael B. Froman, Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker, and other senior advisers to discuss U.S. trade expansion efforts and the ongoing Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. December 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, they met with chief executive officers from the information technology sector to discuss the online health insurance marketplace, Federal Government technology procurement policies, and information security concerns. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the opening ceremony of the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, on February 7: Janet A. Napolitano (head of delegation); Michael A. McFaul; Robert L. Nabors II; Billie Jean King; and Brian A. Boitano. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the closing ceremony of the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia, on February 23: William J. Burns (head of delegation); Michael A. McFaul; Bonnie K. Blair; Caitlin Cahow; and Eric A. Heiden. The President announced his intention to nominate Eric B. Rosenbach to be Assistant Secretary for Homeland Defense at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Darci L. Vetter to be Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The President announced his intention to nominate Elisebeth Collins Cook to be a member of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. The President announced his intention to nominate J. Mark McWatters to be a member of the National Credit Union Administration Board. December 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with President-elect Michelle Bachelet Jeria of Chile to congratulate her on her victory in the December 15 second-round election and discuss Chile-U.S. relations. Then, in the Situation Room, he met with his Review Group on Intelligence and Communications Technologies to discuss the report it submitted to Congress on December 13. December 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha will travel to Honolulu, HI, on December 20. The President announced his intention to nominate Paige E. Alexander to be Assistant Administrator for the Middle East at the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Sharon Y. Bowen to be a Commissioner on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate John C. Cruden to be Assistant Attorney General for Environment and Natural Resources at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Janet McCabe to be Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Leon Rodriguez to be Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate David B. Shear to be Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to appoint Jane Watson Stetson as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The President announced his intention to appoint Mary Jacksteit as Chairman of the Federal Service Impasses Panel at the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to appoint Martin H. Malin and Don Wasserman as members of the Federal Service Impasses Panel at the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to appoint Eric Dannenmaier and Robert Varney as members of the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation. The President announced his intention to appoint James J. Murren as a member of the National Infrastructure Advisory Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Hill Harper as a member of the President's Cancer Panel. The President announced the nomination of the following individuals to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia: Michael P. Boggs; Mark H. Cohen; Leigh Martin May; and Eleanor L. Ross. The President announced the nomination of Tanya S. Chutkan to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The President announced the nomination of M. Hannah Lauck to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. The President announced the nomination of Leo T. Sorokin to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The President announced the nomination of James A. Soto to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. The President announced the nomination of Julie E. Carnes to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Gregg J. Costa to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. December 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with his senior advisers. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and his mother-in-law Marian Robinson traveled to Honolulu, HI. Upon arrival at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI, while still aboard Air Force One, he received an update on the status of four U.S. servicemembers who were wounded while evacuating U.S. citizens in Bor, South Sudan. Then, he and the First Family traveled to their vacation residence in Kailua, HI, arriving early the following morning. The President announced his intention to nominate Max S. Baucus to be Ambassador to China. The President declared a major disaster in Texas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding on October 30 and 31. December 21 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and his mother-in-law Marian Robinson traveled to Kailua, HI. Later, he had a teleconference call with National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Deputy National Security Adviser Antony J. Blinken, Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes, and Senior Director for African Affairs Grant T. Harris to discuss the situation in South Sudan. December 22 In the morning, the President received an update on the situation in South Sudan. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to the University of Hawaii at Manoa in Honolulu, HI, where, at the Stan Sheriff Center, they attended a men's basketball game between the University of Akron and Oregon State University, where Mrs. Obama's brother Craig M. Robinson serves as head basketball coach. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Kailua, HI. During the day, the President enrolled in a health care plan on the DC Health Link website. He also received an update via teleconference on the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. December 24 In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with 10 members of the Armed Forces to thank them for their service. He also had separate telephone conversations with four U.S. servicemembers who were recently wounded while evacuating U.S. citizens in Bor, South Sudan. December 25 In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI, where, at Anderson Hall, they met with servicemembers and their families. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to their vacation residence in Kailua, HI, where they remained overnight. December 27 During the day, the President received an update via teleconference on the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. December 31 In the afternoon, the President and his daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Island Snow Hawaii at the Kailua Beach Center, where he purchased shave ice and posed for a photograph with employees. Then, he walked to an outside seating area at Bob's Pizzeria and greeted a small crowd of people. Later, he and his daughters returned to their vacation residence, where they remained overnight.