Barack Obama 2014-01-01 1 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. January 2 In the morning, the President traveled from his vacation residence in Kailua, HI, to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, where he played golf with Prime Minister John P. Key of New Zealand, Prime Minister Key's son Max, and White House Trip Director Marvin D. Nicholson, Jr. He and Prime Minister Key also discussed New Zealand-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, the President returned to Kailua, HI. January 3 The White House announced that the President will return to Washington, DC, on January 4. January 4 In the evening, the President and his daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. January 6 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. The President declared a major disaster in Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm on December 5 and 6, 2013. January 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in an interview with David Remnick for the New Yorker magazine. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. January 8 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 Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to wish her a speedy recovery following her recent injury and congratulate her on the formation of a new Cabinet. Later, in the Situation Room, he and Vice President Biden met with the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Then, in the Situation Room, they met with leaders of the intelligence community. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2013 National Basketball Association champion Miami Heat to the White House on January 14. The President announced his intention to nominate Christopher P. Lu to be Deputy Secretary of Labor. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael W. Kempner to be a member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors. The President announced his intention to nominate Westley W.O. Moore and Heidi Biggs to be members of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to appoint Robert D. Alverson, James W. Balsiger, and Donald R. Lane as U.S. Commissioners of the International Pacific Halibut Commission. January 9 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 Members of Congress to discuss the administration's ongoing review of signals intelligence and electronic surveillance programs. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The President announced his intention to nominate Deborah L. Birx to be Ambassador at Large and Coordinator of U.S. Government Activities To Combat HIV/AIDS Globally at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Suzette Kimball to be Director of the U.S. Geological Survey at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to appoint Jerilyn Mendoza as a member of the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Commission for Environmental Cooperation. January 10 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, at the Coupe restaurant, the President had lunch with Anne Johnson, Andres Cruz, Jasmine Hicks, Tommy McFly, and David Dimock to discuss health insurance reforms and thank them for their efforts to raise awareness about the importance of young people enrolling for health insurance coverage in the new marketplaces. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Head Coach John "Jimbo" Fisher of the Florida State University football team to congratulate him on his team's victory in the BCS Championship. The President announced his intention to nominate Stanley Fischer to be Vice Chairman and a Governor on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The President announced his intention to nominate Lael Brainard and Jerome H. Powell to be Governors on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The President declared an emergency in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts resulting from a chemical spill beginning on January 9 and continuing. January 12 The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel in Jerusalem on January 13: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (head of delegation); Daniel Shapiro; Eliot L. Engel; Deborah Wasserman Schultz; and Daniel Kurtzer. January 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico to discuss Mexico-U.S. trade, reform efforts in Mexico, and the upcoming North American Leaders' Summit in Toluca, Mexico. The White House announced that the President will travel to Raleigh, NC, on January 15. The White House announced that the President will travel to Toluca, Mexico, on February 19 to participate in the North American Leaders' Summit. January 14 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with the Executive Committee of the National Governors Association to discuss efforts to strengthen the national economy, improve education, and reduce unemployment. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Maria Shriver to discuss the most recent Shriver Report, "A Woman's Nation Pushes Back From the Brink." January 15 In the morning, the President traveled to Raleigh, NC. Then, he traveled to Durham, NC, where at a Vacon Inc. facility, he toured research and development operations with Vacon's Vice President of Research and Development Dan Isaksson and Secretary of Energy Ernest J. Moniz. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Raleigh, NC. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. Later in the afternoon, in the East Room, the President met with the Senate Democratic Caucus. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Juan Orlando Hernández Alvarado as President of Honduras in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, on January 27: Thomas E. Perez (head of delegation); Lisa Kubiske; Roberta S. Jacobson; and Ricardo Zuniga. January 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situation in Syria, reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the peace process in Northern Ireland, and the ongoing review of U.S. signals intelligence and electronic surveillance programs. The President announced his intention to nominate Nina Hachigian to be U.S. Representative to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Shamina Singh and Richard Christman to be members of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew H. Tueller to be Ambassador to Yemen. The President announced his intention to nominate Gustavo Velasquez to be Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced the nomination of Stephen R. Bough to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. The President announced the nomination of Richard F. Boulware II to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada. The President announced the nomination of Salvador Mendoza, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. The President announced the nomination of Staci M. Yandle to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans: Angela Glover Blackwell; Barbara T. Bowman; Gwendolyn E. Boyd; Walter G. Bumphus; James P. Comer; Al Dotson, Jr.; Akosua Barthwell Evans; Jim Freeman; Sharon J. Lettman-Hicks; Michael L. Lomax; Bryant T. Marks; Robert K. Ross; Doris A. Smith-Ribner; Ronald A. Williams; and TyKiah R. Wright. The President declared a major disaster in Alaska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by flooding on October 27 and 28, 2013. January 17 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 Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes to prepare for his remarks on U.S. signals intelligence and electronic surveillance programs. In the afternoon, following his remarks at the Department of Justice, the President dropped by the overflow room and thanked Department of Justice staff for their service. Later, in the Map Room, he recorded an interview with Claus Kleber of ZDF public television of Germany for later broadcast. January 20 In the afternoon, at DC Central Kitchen, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett participated in a service project to promote voluntarism in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. January 21 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Syria, the Joint Plan of Action to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons, security preparations for the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, and Russia-U.S. relations. Then, in the Oval Office, he 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 Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Vatican City from March 24 through 27. The White House announced that the United States will host the first U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington, DC, on August 5 and 6. January 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, they met with Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and other senior administration officials to discuss Federal efforts to combat sexual assualt and review the findings of a White House Council on Women and Girls report on sexual assault. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, the President dropped by a meeting between Vice President Biden and Speaker of the Council of Representatives of Iraq Usama al-Nujayfi. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan to prepare for his State of the Union Address. January 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan and Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes to prepare for his State of the Union Address. The President declared a major disaster in Alaska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding from November 5 through 14, 2013. January 24 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 recorded a video message on the observance of the Lunar New Year for broadcast on January 31. In the evening, in the Oval Office, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan to prepare for his State of the Union Address. During the day, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan and Senior Adviser H. Daniel Pfeiffer to prepare for his State of the Union Address. The President announced the appointment of David M. Simas as Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Political Strategy and Outreach. The President announced the appointment of Broderick Johnson as Assistant to the President and Cabinet Secretary. The President announced the appointment of Amy J. Brundage as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy Communications Director. The President announced the appointment of Anne E. Wall as Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs and Senate Liaison. The President announced the appointment of Amy Rosenbaum as Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs. January 27 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 Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Abd Rabuh Mansur Hadi of Yemen to discuss democracy efforts in Yemen, counterterrorism and security cooperation, and Yemen-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will travel to Lanham, MD, and West Mifflin, PA, on January 29. The White House announced that the President will travel to Waukesha, WI, and Nashville, TN, on January 30. January 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. January 29 In the morning, the President traveled to Glenarden, MD, where he toured the Costco Wholesale Corp. Woodmore Towne Centre Warehouse and met with employees. Later, he traveled to West Mifflin, PA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, in West Mifflin, PA, the President toured the U.S. Steel Corp. Mon Valley Works Irvin Plant with U.S. Steel President and Chief Executive Officer Mario Longhi, Vice President of Engineering and Research and Development Anthony R. Bridge, Irvin Plant Manager Amy Smith-Yoder, United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard, and USW Local 2227 President Kevin McKelvey. Later in the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Then, in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Gov. Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, Jr., of California to discuss the drought affecting California and Federal Government response efforts. The White House announced that the President will meet with King Abdullah II of Jordan at Sunnylands Estate in Rancho Mirage, CA, on February 14. 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 winter storms from December 20 through 26, 2013. January 30 In the morning, the President traveled to Waukesha, WI, where he toured the General Electric Co. Gas Engines Plant with Lorraine Bolsinger, president and chief executive officer, and Jim Flemming, plant manager and global supply chain manager, General Electric Power and Water's Distributed Power. Later, also at the General Electric plant, he recorded a television interview with Jake Tapper of CNN's "The Lead" program. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Nashville, TN, where, at McGavock High School, he met with the family of Kevin Barbee, a student who was killed in a shooting on January 29. He also met with former Vice President Albert A. Gore, Jr., and actor Ashley T. Judd. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President announced his intention to nominate Miranda A.A. Ballentine to be Assistant Secretary for Installations, Environment, and Logistics at the Department of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to nominate Norman C. Bay to be a Commissioner of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and, upon appointment, designate him as Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate L. Reginald Brothers, Jr., to be Under Secretary for Science and Technology at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate William P. Doyle to be a Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Ann E. Dunkin to be Assistant Administrator for Environmental Information at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Manuel H. Ehrlich, Jr., to be a member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Mileydi Guilarte to be U.S. Alternate Executive Director of the Inter-American Development Bank. The President announced his intention to nominate Suzan G. LeVine to be Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael J. McCord to be Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller). The President announced his intention to nominate Brian P. McKeon to be Principal Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. The President announced his intention to nominate Christine E. Wormuth to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. The President announced his intention to appoint Theodore B. Olson as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President announced his intention to appoint Nathalie Rayes as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The President declared a major disaster in Oklahoma and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm on December 5 and 6, 2013. January 31 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the State Dining Room, they met with chief executive officers and other leaders to discuss best practices for hiring the long-term unemployed. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President participated in a Google+ Hangouts virtual road trip across the country to discuss his State of the Union Address. February 2 In the afternoon, in the Blue Room, the President participated in a live television interview with Bill O'Reilly of Fox News for the Fox Super Bowl XLVIII pregame show. February 3 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 Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa of Tunisia to congratulate him and the Tunisian people on the ratification of a new constitution and formation of an interim government and discuss Tunisia-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with 2013 Enrico Fermi Award recipients Allen J. Bard and Andrew Sessler. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid. The White House announced that the President will travel to Adelphi, MD, on February 4. The White House announced that the President will travel to Saudi Arabia in March. February 4 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. Then, in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Peter C. Carroll of the National Football League's Seattle Seahawks to congratulate him on his team's victory in Super Bowl XLVIII. Later, also in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Department of Defense leadership to discuss U.S. military operations in Afghanistan. Later in the afternoon, in the East Room, the President and Vice President Biden participated in a roundtable discussion with members of the House Democratic Caucus to discuss the national economy and job creation. In the evening, in the Grand Foyer, the President hosted a reception for members of the House Democratic Caucus. During the day, in the Situation Room, the President and Vice President received an update on U.S. cooperation with Russia to ensure the security and safety of U.S. athletes, delegates, and other citizens attending the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. The White House announced that the President will travel to East Lansing, MI, on February 7. The White House announced that President Obama and President François Hollande of France will travel to Charlottesville, VA, on February 10, where they will tour Monticello, the residence of former President Thomas Jefferson. February 5 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, at Nationals Park, the President met with Senators attending the Senate Democratic Issues Conference. Later, in the Oval Office, he 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 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; Brian A. Boitano; and Caitlin Cahow. The President announced his intention to nominate Beth Bloom and Darrin P. Gayles to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The President announced his intention to nominate Paul G. Byron and Carlos E. Mendoza to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The President announced his intention to nominate Cheryl A. Krause to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. February 6 In the afternoon, in the Library, the President recorded an interview with Bob Costas of NBC Sports for later broadcast. The President declared an emergency in Pennsylvania and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth and local response efforts in the area struck by a severe winter storm beginning on February 4 and continuing. February 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to East Lansing, MI. In the afternoon, on the campus of Michigan State University, the President and Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack toured the Michigan Biotechnology Institute and visited with employees. Then, he had lunch with Mayor Michael E. Duggan of Detroit. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President recorded an interview with Madd Hatta of KBXX's "Madd Hatta Morning Show" in Houston, TX. The White House released further details on President Obama's travel with President François Hollande of France to Charlottesville, VA, on February 10. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi, Russia, on March 7: L. Tammy Duckworth (head of delegation); Kathy Martinez; Celeste A. Wallander; Anthony Robles; Sandra Kukat; and Brian Mosteller. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark Green to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert O. Work to be Deputy Secretary of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Cassandra Q. Butts to be Ambassador to the Bahamas. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew T. McGuire to be U.S. Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. February 10 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 traveled to Joint Base Andrews, MD, where he welcomed President François Hollande of France upon his arrival. Then, he and President Hollande traveled to Charlottesville, VA, where they toured Monticello, the residence of former President Thomas Jefferson. In the evening, President Obama and President Hollande returned to Washington, DC. February 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with President François Hollande of France. Then, in the Cabinet Room, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an expanded bilateral meeting with President Hollande. Also in the morning, the President was briefed on the severe winter weather pattern affecting the southern States. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. In the evening, on the North Portico, the President and Mrs. Obama greeted President Hollande of France upon his arrival for a state dinner and reception. Then, on the Grand Staircase, he and Mrs. Obama participated in a photo opportunity with President Hollande. The President declared an emergency in Georgia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on February 10 and continuing. The White House announced that the President will host a "My Brother's Keeper" initiative event on February 13. The White House announced that the President will travel to Fresno, CA, on February 14. February 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing, which included an update on the severe winter weather pattern affecting the southern States. The White House announced that the President will travel to Rancho Mirage, CA, on February 14 to meet with King Abdullah II of Jordan at the Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands. The White House announced that the President will travel to Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and the Philippines in late April. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to the White House on March 3. The President announced his intention to nominate Todd A. Batta to be Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations at the Department of Agriculture. The President announced his intention to nominate Maria Cancian to be Assistant Secretary for Children and Families at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced his intention to nominate Julia A. Clark to be General Counsel of the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to nominate Victoria Reggie Kennedy to be a Governor on the Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service. The President announced his intention to nominate D. Nathan Sheets to be Under Secretary for International Affairs at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark Sobel to be U.S. Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund. The President announced his intention to nominate Francis X. Taylor to be Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Juan Carlos Iturregui, Roberta S. Jacobson, and Annette Taddeo-Goldstein to be members of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate R. Jane Chu to be Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. The President declared an emergency in South Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on February 10 and continuing. February 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Library, the President recorded an interview with sports announcer and former National Basketball Association player Charles Barkley of TNT's "Inside the NBA" program for later broadcast. Later, he gave Mr. Barkley a personal tour of the Oval Office. February 14 In the morning, the President traveled to Cambridge, MD. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Fresno, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Enrico Letta of Italy to express his gratitude for the Prime Minister's leadership and discuss Italy-U.S. relations. Upon arrival in Fresno, he traveled to Firebaugh, CA. While en route aboard Marine One, he viewed drought damage in the central valley of California with Rep. Jim Costa and Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer. In the evening, the President traveled to Rancho Mirage, CA, where, at the Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands, he welcomed King Abdullah II of Jordan. Later, he and King Abdullah had a working dinner. 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; Billie Jean King; Bonnie Blair; and Eric Heiden. The President announced his intention to nominate Todd Sunhwae Kim to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. February 15 The White House announced that the President will return to Washington, DC, on February 17. February 16 The White House announced that the President will travel to Upper Marlboro, MD, on February 18. February 17 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. February 18 In the morning, the President traveled to Upper Marlboro, MD. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Japanese American veterans of World War II to congratulate them on their Congressional Gold Medal and thank them for their service. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with African American civil rights leaders to discuss criminal justice reform, income inequality, and the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Later, in the Family Theater, he hosted a screening of the film "The Monuments Men" for castmembers, crew, and officials from the Cultural Heritage Center. February 19 In the morning, the President traveled to Toluca, Mexico, arriving in the afternoon. Upon arrival at the International Airport of Toluca, the President signed Executive Order 13659 to streamline the export-import process for U.S. small businesses. Then, also at the International Airport of Toluca, he participated in an official arrival ceremony. Later, he traveled to the Palacio de Gobierno of the State of Mexico, where he was greeted by President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico. Then, in the Governor's office, he had a meeting with President Peña Nieto. Later in the afternoon, at the Cosmovitral, the President participated in a photo opportunity with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada and President Peña Nieto of Mexico, followed by a working lunch. Then, also at the Cosmovitral, he walked in the botanical gardens with Prime Minister Harper and President Peña Nieto. Then, he met with Prime Minister Harper. Later, he traveled to the Palacio de Justicia of the State of Mexico, where he participated in a trilateral meeting of the North American Leaders' Summit. Then, he walked to the Palacio de Gobierno. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss the situation in Syria, other regional issues, and Turkey-U.S. relations. February 20 In the morning, the President sent a tweet to Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada placing a bet on the success of the U.S. men's and women's hockey teams at the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine. February 21 In the morning, in the Map Room, the President met with Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Then, he had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine and other global issues. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to 24 Army veterans in recognition of their valor during combat in World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war on March 18. February 23 The White House announced that the President will travel to Saint Paul, MN, on February 26. February 24 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 Matteo Renzi of Italy to congratulate him on his election victory. They also discussed Italy-U.S. cooperation in Afghanistan and Libya and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership negotiations. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with Gov. Janice K. Brewer of Arizona, Gov. Mary Fallin of Oklahoma, Gov. Gary R. Herbert of Utah, Gov. John W. Hickenlooper of Colorado, Gov. John A. Kitzhaber of Oregon, Gov. Jay R. Inslee of Washington, Gov. Matthew H. Mead of Wyoming, Gov. Brian E. Sandoval of Nevada, and administration officials to discuss the increasing frequency and severity of droughts, wildfires, and other extreme weather events; the Federal Government's natural disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts; proposed changes to wildfire suppression funding in the President's upcoming budget; and the effects of climate change. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a teleconference call with State and local officials from around the country to discuss efforts to improve enrollment in health insurance exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, he recorded an interview with Zach Galifianakis of the Funny or Die website's "Between Two Ferns" program for later broadcast. The White House announced that the President will host an event to announce new manufacturing innovation institutes on February 25. The White House announced that the President will host an event to launch the "My Brother's Keeper" initiative on February 27. February 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan to discuss preparations for Afghanistan's upcoming elections, reconciliation efforts, and the Afghanistan-U.S. bilateral security agreement. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner. The White House announced that the President will host a student film festival to promote the expansion of Internet access and educational technology in schools. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend Nigeria's Centenary Celebration in Abuja, Nigeria, on February 27 and 28: Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. (head of delegation); and James F. Entwistle. February 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Saint Paul, MN, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, in Saint Paul, MN, the President and Secretary of Transportation Anthony R. Foxx toured the Metro Transit Light Rail Operations and Maintenance Facility and met with employees. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert W. Holleyman II to be Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, with the rank of Ambassador, in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The President announced his intention to nominate Lisa S. Disbrow to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Management at the Department of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to nominate Laura Junor to be Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Personnel and Readiness at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Karen Kornbluh to be a member of the Broadcasting Board of Governors. The President announced his intention to appoint Leslie Meyers as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Janet Hill and Michael Lombardo as members of the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Rose K. Schlossberg and Susan S. Sher as general trustees of the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint John W. Rogers, Jr., as Chair of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. The President announced his intention to appoint José Cisneros as Vice Chair of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans: Theodore J. Beck; Sherry S. Black; John H. Bryant; Anna Maria Chávez; Kerry N. Doi; Ted Gonder; Richard G. Ketchum; Beth Kobliner; Kilandigalu M. "Kay" Madati; Marc H. Morial; Carol E. Quillen; Amy Rosen; and Charles W. Scharf. The President announced the nomination of Robin L. Rosenberg to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The President announced his intention to appoint Joseph J. Echevarria, Jr., as a member of the President's Export Council. February 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the State Dining Room, the President met with foundation and business leaders, elected officials, and administration officials to discuss the "My Brother's Keeper" initiative. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority to the White House on March 17. February 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, at the Capitol Hilton hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. March 1 In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine and express his concern over Russia's intervention in Ukraine. He also had separate telephone conversations with President François Hollande of France and Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the situation in Ukraine and pledge continued U.S. support for democratic reforms and economic stabilization in Ukraine. March 2 In the afternoon, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland, and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss Russia's intervention in Ukraine and affirm continued U.S. support for security cooperation and democracy efforts in Eastern Europe. The White House announced that the President will travel to New Britain, CT, on March 5. March 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, to discuss U.A.E.-U.S. relations. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he dropped by a meeting between Vice President Biden and Prime Minister Iurie Leanca of Moldova. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. The White House announced that the President will travel to Boston, MA, on March 5. March 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, at Powell Elementary School, he toured classrooms and visited with teachers and students. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. In the evening, the President traveled to McLean, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine. March 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, he traveled to New Britain, CT, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss Russia's intervention in Ukraine and continued U.K.-U.S. support of the interim Ukrainian Government. In the afternoon, while en route to Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, CT, the President stopped for lunch and greeted patrons at Café Beauregard, where he was joined by Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy of Connecticut, Gov. Deval L. Patrick of Massachusetts, Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee of Rhode Island, and Gov. Peter E. Shumlin of Vermont. Later, he traveled to Boston, MA. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Miami, FL, on March 7. March 6 In the morning, at the Newseum, the President participated in a town hall meeting on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act's benefits for Latinos. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss Russia's intervention in Ukraine and efforts to resolve the situation diplomatically. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to discuss the situation in Ukraine and Japan-U.S. relations. During the day, the President met with his national security team. Later, he stopped by a meeting with YouTube users to discuss strategies for raising awareness about the importance of health insurance enrollment. The President announced his intention to nominate Nani A. Coloretti to be Deputy Secretary at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Estevan R. Lopez to be Commissioner of Reclamation at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to nominate Erika L. Moritsugu to be Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Relations at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Monica C. Regalbuto to be Assistant Secretary for Environmental Management at the Department of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Andrew H. Schapiro to be Ambassador to the Czech Republic. The President announced his intention to appoint Thomas R. Lamont as a member of the American Battle Monuments Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Alan B. Lazowski as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Latifa A. Lyles as Director of the Women's Bureau at the Department of Labor. The President announced his intention to appoint Susan Athey, John T. Cacioppo, and Sharon R. Long as members of the President's Committee on the National Medal of Science. The President declared a major disaster in Georgia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by a severe winter storm from February 10 through 14. March 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the State Dining Room, he welcomed 2014 Intel Science Talent Search finalists and participated in a group photograph. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Miami, FL. Later, they traveled to Key Largo, FL. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2012-2013 NCAA champion student athletes to the White House on March 10. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Michelle Bachelet Jeria as President of Chile in Santiago, Chile, on March 11: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (head of delegation); Michael A. Hammer; and Roberta S. Jacobson. March 8 In the morning, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, President François Hollande of France, and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the situation in Ukraine. He also participated in a conference call with President Andris Berzins of Latvia, President Dalia Grybauskaite of Lithuania, and President Toomas Hendrik Ilves of Estonia to discuss the situation in Ukraine and reaffirm U.S. support for democracy in the Baltic States. They also discussed regional security issues and cooperation within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and their Malia and Sasha will return to Washington, DC, on March 9. March 9 In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Xi Jinping of China to discuss the situation in Ukraine and China-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk of Ukraine to the White House on March 12. March 10 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S.: Mhamed Ezzine Chelaifa of Tunisia, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India, Jalil Abbas Jilani of Pakistan, Rupa Abraham Mulina of Papua New Guinea, Johan Cecilia Verbeke of Belgium, and Mohammed Jaham A.A. Al Kuwari of Qatar. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy Brey of Spain and President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Also in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a conference call with faith and community leaders across the country to discuss efforts to promote enrollment in health insurance exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. March 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to New York City, where, at the East 42d and Third Avenue Gap Inc. store, he purchased gifts for his family. Then, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to 24 Army veterans in recognition of their valor during combat in World War II, the Korean war, and the Vietnam war on March 18. The President announced his intention to appoint Andrew Jackson as Assistant Secretary for Management at the Department of Education. The President announced the nomination of Leslie J. Abrams to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia. The President announced the appointment of Robert J. Glovsky and Deanna M. Mulligan as members of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. March 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President met with advocates working to raise public awareness of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, he participated in an interview with Lisa Zamosky of WebMD Health Corp. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Enda Kenny of Ireland to the White House on March 14. The President declared a major disaster in South Carolina and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm from February 10 through 14. March 13 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. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chairman Ruben Hinojosa, CHC Immigration Task Force Chair Luis Gutierrez, and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra to discuss immigration reform. Also during the day, in the East Room, the President met with student delegates from the 52d Annual U.S. Senate Youth Program. The President announced his intention to nominate Judith M. Davenport to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The President announced his intention to nominate Brad R. Huther to be Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced his intention to appoint Peter C. Groff as a member of the Commission on Presidential Scholars. The President announced his intention to appoint Joyce A. Mader as a member of the Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint Horacio Rodiles as a member of the U.S. section of the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint John E. Huerta, Barry W. Karas, and Ronnie Planalp as members of the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced the nomination of John W. deGravelles to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana. The President announced the nomination of Deirdre M. Daly to be U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut. The President announced the nomination of James W.F. Green to be U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. The President announced the nomination of Ronald L. Miller to be U.S. marshal for the District of Kansas. March 14 In the afternoon, in the Rayburn Room at the U.S. Capitol, the President, Vice President Joe Biden, and Prime Minister Enda Kenny of Ireland attended a Congressional Friends of Ireland luncheon. Later, in the Roosevelt Room at the White House, he, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh C. Johnson, and senior advisers met with organizations advocating for immigration reform. March 16 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss Russia's intervention in Ukraine and efforts to resolve the situation diplomatically. March 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President had a working lunch with President Abbas. Later, he traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he met with wounded U.S. military personnel and their families and presented a Purple Heart to a servicemember. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. March 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss Russia's intervention in Ukraine and efforts to resolve the situation diplomatically. Then, in the Map Room, he recorded separate interviews with ESPN's Andy Katz and Rebecca R. Lobo-Rushin for later broadcast. In the afternoon, in the Gallatin Room of the Jefferson hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee event. The White House announced that the President will travel to Orlando and Miami, FL, on March 20. March 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Diplomatic Room, the President recorded separate interviews with Alison King of NECN in Newton, MA; Mike Bush of KSDK in St. Louis, MO; Julie Nelson of KARE in Minneapolis, MN; Clarice Tinsley of KDFW in Dallas, TX; Mark Mullen of NBC 7 in San Diego, CA; and Catherine Anaya of KPHO in Phoenix, AZ. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President participated in a satellite interview with Ellen L. DeGeneres of NBC's "Ellen" program. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa of Tunisia to the White House on April 4. March 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Deputy National Security Adviser Antony J. Blinken, White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes, National Economic Council Director Jeffrey D. Zients, and Secretary of the Treasury, Jacob J. Lew to discuss sanctions against Russia. Then, he traveled to Orlando, FL, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Valencia College, West Campus, where, in classroom 8-120, he participated in a roundtable discussion with college students and local workers. Later, he traveled to Miami, FL, where he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser at a private residence. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. The President announced his intention to appoint Joshua M. Javits as Chair of Presidential Emergency Board No. 245. The President announced his intention to appoint Elizabeth C. Wesman and M. David Vaughn as members of Presidential Emergency Board No. 245. The President announced his intention to appoint Patrick D. Cannon, Howard A. Rosenblum, and Deborah A. Ryan as members of the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Access Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Gary Blumenthal, Ari Néeman, and Clyde E. Terry as members of the National Council on Disability. March 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with information technology company chief executive officers W. Reed Hastings, Jr., of Netflix, Andrew W. Houston of Dropbox, Alexander C. Karp of Palantir, Aaron W. Levie of Box, Eric E. Schmidt of Google, and Mark E. Zuckerberg of Facebook to discuss intelligence, technology, and privacy issues. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Tamam Salam of Lebanon to congratulate him on the formation of his Cabinet, the situation in Syria, and Lebanon-U.S. relations. March 23 In the evening, the President traveled to Amsterdam, Netherlands, arriving the following morning. March 24 In the morning, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, the President visited the Rijksmuseum, where he signed the guest book and toured the museum with Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, Mayor E berhard van der Laan of Amsterdam, and Rijksmuseum General Director Wim Pijbes. Later, he traveled to The Hague, Netherlands. In the afternoon, at the World Forum in The Hague, the President attended the opening session of the Nuclear Security Summit. Later, also at the World Forum, he participated in the first plenary discussion of the Nuclear Security Summit, followed by a scenario-based policy discussion. In the evening, at Catshuis, the official residence of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, the President attended a Group of Seven (G-7) leaders meeting on the situation in Ukraine. Later, he traveled to Amsterdam, Netherlands, where, at the Royal Palace, he participated in a reception and photo opportunity with the attending leaders of the Nuclear Security Summit and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. Then, also at the Royal Palace, he had a working dinner with King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. Later in the evening, the President traveled to the Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin in Noordsijk, Netherlands, where he remained overnight. The President announced the appointment of Douglas M. Brooks as Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy. The President declared an emergency in Washington and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from flooding and mudslides beginning on March 22 and continuing. March 25 In the morning, the President traveled to The Hague, Netherlands, where, at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, he met with President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan. Later, at the World Forum, he attended the leaders-only plenary session of the Nuclear Security Summit. In the afternoon, at the World Forum, the President participated in the official Nuclear Security Summit leaders family photograph. Then, also at the World Forum, he attended a working lunch with plenary discussion, followed by the third plenary discussion. Later, at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, he met with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces. During the day, at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, the President was briefed by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Alyssa Mastromonaco on the mudslide in Oso, WA. Also during the day, at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, he had a pull-aside meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan In the evening, at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Later, he traveled to Brussels, Belgium. Upon arrival, he traveled to The Hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2013 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox to the White House on April 1. March 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Waregem, Belgium, where, at Flanders Field American Cemetery and Memorial, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony and toured the grounds. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Brussels, Belgium, where, at the Council of the European Union, he was greeted by European Commission President José Manuel Durão Barroso and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy. Then, also at the Council of the European Union, he attended a working lunch at the European Union-U.S. Summit. Later, at The Hotel, he met with personnel and families of the U.S. Tri-Mission to Belgium, the European Union, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. In the evening, the President traveled to Rome, Italy. Upon arrival, he traveled to the U.S. Ambassador's residence, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will welcome members of the 2014 U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams to the White House on April 3. March 27 In the morning, the President traveled to the Vatican, where he had an audience and exchanged gifts with Pope Francis. Later, he met with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin of the Holy See (Vatican City). In the afternoon, the President traveled to Rome, Italy, where, at the Quirinal Palace, he participated in a restricted bilateral meeting with President Giorgio Napolitano of Italy, followed by an expanded bilateral meeting and a working lunch. Later, at the Villa Madama, he met with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy. Also at the Villa Madama, he received a telephone briefing from Senior Communications Adviser Tara D. McGuinness on the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later in the afternoon, the President toured the Colosseum with Colosseum Technical Director and Architect Barbara Nazzaro. In the evening, at the U.S. Ambassador to Italy's residence in Rome, the President met with personnel and families of the U.S. Tri-Mission to Italy, the Holy See, and the U.N. Agencies in Rome. Later, also at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, he had dinner with U.S. Ambassador to Italy John R. Philips and his wife Linda Douglass, architect Renzo Piano, physicist Fabiola Gianotti, Fiat chairman John Elkann and his sister Ginevra, and A.S. Roma chief executive Italo Zanzi. Later in the evening, also at the U.S. Ambassador's residence, the President participated in a conference call with health care navigators and volunteers to discuss enrollment in health insurance exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The President announced his intention to nominate Dean A. Reuter to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Elizabeth Sembler to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The President announced his intention to nominate Elliot F. Kaye to be Commissioner and Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Alfonso E. Lenhardt to be Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Linda Struyk Millsaps to be a member of the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board. The President announced his intention to appoint David S. Blitzstein as a member of the Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint Michael L. Corbat as a member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. The President announced his intention to appoint Susan Forster-Cox as a member of the U.S. Section of the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Commission. March 28 In the morning, at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy, the President recorded a television interview with Scott Pelley of CBS's "Evening News" program for later broadcast. Later, he traveled to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While en route aboard Air Force One, he met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, White House Coordinator for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf Region Philip H. Gordon, and Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes. In the afternoon, upon arrival in Riyadh, the President traveled to Rawdat Khuraim, Saudi Arabia. In the evening, at the royal compound in Rawdat Khuraim, the President met with King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. Secretary of State John F. Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Joseph W. Westphal, and White House Coordinator for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf Region Philip H. Gordon also attended. Later, he traveled to the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh hotel in Riyadh, where he remained overnight. Also in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the U.S. proposal for a diplomatic resolution to the situation in Ukraine, the Ukrainian Government's constitutional and democratic reform efforts, the Russian military buildup along the Ukraine-Russia border, and U.S. opposition to previous Russian actions concerning the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the state funeral of former President Adolfo Suarez Gonzalez of Spain in Madrid, Spain, on March 31: Raymond E. Mabus, Jr. (head of delegation); D. Robert Graham; and James Costos. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the 20th commemoration of the Rwandan genocide in Kigali, Rwanda, on April 7: Samantha Power (head of delegation); Donald W. Koran; Karen R. Bass; Linda Thomas-Greenfield; Stephen J. Rapp; Russell L. Feingold; Michael J. Gerson; and Christine Hjelt. March 29 In the morning, at the Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh hotel, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Later, he traveled to Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President visited with wounded U.S. servicemembers. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. March 31 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing followed by a meeting with his senior advisers. The White House announced that the President will travel to Ann Arbor, MI, on April 2. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on April 2. 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 winter storm on March 6 and 7. April 1 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 had lunch with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President received an update on the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act from health care policy consultant Philip M. Schiliro, Senior Communications Adviser Tara D. McGuinness, Principal Deputy Director of Public Engagement Marlon Marshall, Deputy Assistant to the President for Health Policy Jeanne M. Lambrew, Adviser to the White House Chief of Staff Kristie A. Canegallo, and White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett. April 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Ann Arbor, MI, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, at Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor, MI, the President had lunch with Rep. Gary C. Peters and participated in a roundtable discussion with University of Michigan student Mira Friedlander, waitress Aisha Thurman of Detroit, MI, and tipped server Graham Kovich of Warren, MI, on efforts to raise the Federal minimum wage. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Chicago, IL, where, at Chicago Cut Steakhouse, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, also at the Chicago Cut Steakhouse, he participated in a photo opportunity with members of the Chicago Fire and Police Departments. Then, also at the Chicago Cut Steakhouse, he had dinner with Mayor Rahm I. Emanuel of Chicago, and former White House Senior Adviser David M. Axelrod. Also at the Chicago Cut Steakhouse, he was updated on the shooting at Fort Hood, TX, by Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. James A. "Sandy" Winnefeld, Jr., USN. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a teleconference briefing with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, USA, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, USA, Federal Bureau of Investigation Deputy Director Mark F. Giuliano, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, and Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L Nabors II to discuss the shooting at Fort Hood, TX, and ongoing investigation efforts. The President declared a major disaster in Washington and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by flooding and mudslides beginning on March 22 and continuing. April 3 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. In the evening, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met 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 the President's recent trip to Europe and the situation in Ukraine. The President announced his intention to nominate Steven Cohen to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas P. Kelly III to be Ambassador to Djibouti. The President announced his intention to nominate Jane Nishida to be Assistant Administrator for International and Tribal Affairs at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Sunil Sabharwal to be U.S. Alternate Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund. The President announced his intention to nominate Gordon O. Tanner to be General Counsel at the Department of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to appoint Karen L. Braitmayer as a member of the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Access Board. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the National Council on Disability: Janice Lehrer-Stein; Benro T. Ogunyipe; Katherine D. Seelman; and Royal P. Walker, Jr. The President announced the nomination of André Birotte, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The President announced the nomination of Randolph D. Moss to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. April 4 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 and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. In the afternoon, the President and Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa of Tunisia met with 10 Tunisian undergraduates studying in the United States as part of the Thomas Jefferson Scholarship Program. Later, in the East Room, he hosted a reception for Greek Independence Day. Vice President Biden also attended. The President declared a major disaster in Oregon and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm from February 6 through 10. April 5 The White House announced that the President will travel to Bladensburg, MD, on April 7. April 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Bladensburg, MD, where, at Bladensburg High School, he toured a science classroom and visited with teachers and students. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with William A. Thien, commander-in-chief, and Robert E. Wallace, executive director, of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Later in the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with the inaugural members of the Presidential Ambassadors for Global Entrepreneurship (PAGE) and PAGE Chair, Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Houston, TX, on April 9. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Fort Hood, TX, on April 9. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Austin, TX, on April 10. April 8 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 State John F. Kerry. April 9 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Killeen, TX, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, upon arrival at Robert Gray Army Airfield, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Fort Hood, TX. Later, they traveled to Houston, TX. Upon arrival at George H.W. Bush Intercontinental Airport, they were greeted by former President George H.W. Bush. Then, the President traveled to a private residence, where he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to the Crowne Plaza Houston-Downtown hotel, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President was updated on the stabbing at Franklin Regional Senior High School in Murrysville, PA. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to New York City on April 11. April 10 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Austin, TX, where, at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library, they, Rep. John R. Lewis, and LBJ Presidential Library Director Mark K. Updegrove viewed an exhibit commemorating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and former President Johnson's role in the civil rights movement. Later, also at the LBJ Presidential Library, he met with Texas State Sen. Wendy Davis. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine, international concern over Russian troops on the Ukraine-Russia border, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. He also had a telephone conversation with Principal Ron Suvak of Franklin Regional Senior High School in Murrysville, PA, to express his concern for the students and families affected by the April 9 stabbings, thank him for his leadership, and offer Federal assistance to the school community. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Beaumont, TX, resident Elbek Elibaev and his niece Sabina Johnson, who visited the White House on a trip sponsored by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate William D. "Bro" Adams to be Chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert M. Speer to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Management at the Department of the Army. The President announced his intention to nominate Jonathan N. Stivers to be Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia at the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Ramin Toloui to be Deputy Under Secretary for International Finance at the Department of the Treasury and, upon appointment, designate him as Assistant Secretary for International Finance. The President announced his intention to nominate Alice G. Wells to be Ambassador to Jordan. The President announced his intention to appoint Lee T. Bycel as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint Mostafa A. El-Sayed as a member of the President's Committee on the National Medal of Science. The President announced his intention to appoint Stephen R. Gephard, Patrick C. Keliher, and Daniel S. Morris as Commissioners on the Council of the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization. The President announced the nomination of Nancy B. Firestone, Lydia K. Griggsby, and Thomas L. Halkowski to be judges on the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. The President declared a major disaster in Maryland and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a snowstorm on February 12 and 13. April 11 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 New York City. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC, arriving early the following morning. The White House announced that the President will present the 2013 Commander in Chief's Trophy to the U.S. Naval Academy football team at the White House on April 18. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the canonization mass of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II in the Holy See (VaticanCity) on April 27: John D. Podesta (head of delegation); Xavier Becerra; and Katherine Beirne Fallon. The President declared a major disaster in Tennessee and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm from March 2 through 4. April 14 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with members of the Global Development Council. Later, in the East Room, he welcomed recipients of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with President François Hollande of France and President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, international concern over Russian troops on the Ukraine-Russia border, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. The White House announced that the President and Vice President Joe Biden will travel to Oakdale, PA, on April 16. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Jose "Pepe" Mujica Cordano of Uruguay to the White House on May 12. April 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with faith leaders to discuss efforts to pass immigration reform legislation. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had separate telephone conversations with University of Connecticut men's basketball Head Coach Kevin Ollie and women's basketball Head Coach Geno Auriemma to congratulate them on their teams' victories in the NCAA championship games. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. During the meeting, they observed a moment of silence to mark the first anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. In the evening, in the Old Family Dining Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a Seder to mark the beginning of Passover. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti to the White House on May 5. The White House announced that the President will present the Medal of Honor to Sgt. Kyle J. White, USA, on May 13. April 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the East Room, he participated in a photo opportunity with the spring class of White House interns. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Pittsburgh, PA. Then, while en route to North Fayette Township, PA, he stopped to visit with Eric DiFiore, Kevin Stripp, Sean Conner, and Brett White, members of the band Comfort Tech, who performed an impromptu concert along the motorcade route. Later, at Community College of Allegheny County North Campus in North Fayette Township, PA, he, Vice President Biden, and Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker toured a classroom with mechatronics instructor Paul Blackford and visited with students. Later in the afternoon, following his remarks at the West Hills Center in North Fayette Township, the President met with Pittsburgh, PA, resident Kimberly Francis, a self-employed cancer patient benefiting from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and her parents Judith and Michael Sparlin. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with House Republican Leader Eric I. Cantor to discuss immigration reform legislation. He also recorded an interview with Major Garrett of CBS News for later broadcast. April 17 In the morning, the President had separate telephone conversations with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, international concern over Russian troops on the Ukraine-Russia border, and diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. Later, in the State Dining Room, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with representatives from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President, Vice President Biden, Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius, and other senior advisers met with executives from the health insurance industry. The President declared a major disaster in Montana and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by ice jams and flooding from March 1 through 16. April 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, followed by a meeting with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with American Legion National Commander Daniel M. Dellinger and Executive Director Peter S. Gaytan to discuss issues related to veterans health care, benefits, and job training assistance. The President announced his intention to appoint Larry R. Ellis as a member of the American Battle Monuments Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Howard Z. Borin and Grace Tsao-Wu as members of the Commission on Presidential Scholars. April 20 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha attended an Easter Sunday service at Nineteenth Street Baptist Church. The White House announced that the President will travel to Oso, WA, on April 22. April 21 In the morning, on the South Lawn, the President and Mrs. Obama participated in White House Easter Egg Roll activities. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. April 22 In the morning, the President traveled to Everett, WA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, aboard Marine One, the President, Gov. Jay R. Inslee of Washington, Sens. Maria E. Cantwell and Patricia L. Murray, and Rep. Suzan K. DelBene took an aerial tour of the area affected by a mudslide in Oso, WA, on March 22. Then, upon arrival in Arlington, WA, he traveled to Oso, where, at the Oso Community Chapel, he met with families of victims killed in the mudslide. Later, he traveled to Arlington, WA, where, at the Snohomish County Fire District 25/Oso Fire Department firehouse, he met with first responders. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Tokyo, Japan, arriving the following evening. The President declared a major disaster in Indiana and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm and snowstorm from January 5 through 9. April 23 In the evening, upon arrival in Tokyo, Japan, the President traveled to the Hotel Okura Tokyo. Then, at Sukiyabashi Jiro restaurant, he had dinner with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline B. Kennedy, and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice. Later, he returned to the Hotel Okura Tokyo, where he remained overnight. April 24 In the morning, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, the President participated in an arrival ceremony, followed by an inspection of the Guard of Honor and a state call with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan. In the afternoon, at the Akasaka Palace in Tokyo, the President met with Shigeo Iizuka and Shigeru and Sakie Yokota, relatives of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea in the 1970s. Later in the afternoon, the President toured the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) with U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline B. Kennedy and Miraikan Chief Executive Director Mamoru Mohri. During the tour, he watched a prerecorded video message from International Space Station Commander Koichi Wakata of Japan and Flight Engineers Steve Swanson and Rick Mastracchio of the U.S. Then, he observed robotics demonstrations and met with students. Later, the President and Ambassador Kennedy toured the Meiji Jingu shrine. During the tour, he signed a prayer tablet and watched a traditional horseback archery demonstration. Then, he returned to the Hotel Okura Tokyo. In the evening, at the Imperial Palace, the President participated in an after-dinner talk following a state dinner hosted by Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition: Jason Collins; Misty Copeland; Alonzo H. Mourning, Jr.; Rachael Ray; and Robert T. Shepardson. The President announced his intention to appoint Michèle Taylor as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: N. Nina Ahmad; Michael Byun; Ravi Chaudhary; Lian Cheun; Billy Dec; Bill Imada; Kathy Ko Chin; Dee Jay Mailer; Diane Narasaki; Shekar Narasimhan; Mary Ann Young Okada; Maulik Pancholy; Linda X. Phan; and Lorna May Ho Randlett. April 25 In the morning, at the Hotel Okura Tokyo, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Then, also at the Hotel Okura Tokyo, he participated in a farewell greeting with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan. Later, he traveled to Seoul, South Korea, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, at the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul, the President participated in a wreath-laying ceremony. Then, he toured Gyeongbokgung Palace. Later, at the Blue House, he participated in an arrival ceremony with President Park Geun-hye of South Korea. Then, also at the Blue House, he signed the guest book and participated in an official photograph with President Park. In the evening, at the Blue House, the President attended a working dinner with President Park. Later, he traveled to the Grand Hyatt Seoul hotel, where he participated in a conference call with President François Hollande of France, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy, and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, the steps taken by the Ukraine Government to comply with the April 17 joint statement by Ukraine, Russia, the European Union, and the U.S., and Russia's failure to support the accord. They also discussed Russia's continued escalation of the situation and agreed to coordinate efforts through the Group of Seven (G-7) and European Union to impose additional economic sanctions against Russia. April 26 In the morning, the President traveled to the U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan in Seoul, where he and President Park Geun-hye of South Korea received a briefing from Gen. C. Michael Scaparrotti, USA, commander, U.S. Forces Korea. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Upon arrival, he traveled to Parliament Square, where, at the Parliament House, he participated in an arrival ceremony with King Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah and Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia. Later, he traveled to the Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur hotel. In the evening, the President traveled to the Istana Negara Palace. Later, he returned to the Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur hotel, where he remained overnight. April 27 In the morning, at the Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur hotel, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel. Then, he toured the Masjid Negara (National Mosque) with Grand Imam Tan Sri Dato' Syaikh Haji Ismail Bin Haji Muhammad and tour guide Abdul Rashid bin Md Isa. Later, he traveled to the Seri Perdana, the official residence of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, where he met with Prime Minister Najib Razak and had a working lunch. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre in Cyberjaya, where he and Prime Minister Najib toured the center with Malaysian Treasury Secretary-General Mohd Irwan and visited with students. Later, he traveled to Kuala Lumpur. Later in the afternoon, the President returned to the Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur hotel, where he met with civil society leaders. April 28 In the morning, the President traveled to Manila, Philippines, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Malacanang Palace in Manila, where he participated in an arrival ceremony with President Benigno S. Aquino III of the Philippines. Then, in the Reception Hall, he signed the guest book. Later, in the State Dining Room, he attended a restricted bilateral meeting, followed by an expanded bilateral meeting, with President Aquino. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila hotel, where he met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. In the evening, the President traveled to the Malacanang Palace. Later, he returned to the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila hotel, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Michael D. Beebe of Arkansas to receive an update on the tornadoes that struck Central Arkansas on April 27, express his condolences for the loss of life, offer Federal assistance in the recovery efforts, and commend the work of first responders. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to the White House on June 12. April 29 In the morning, at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila hotel, the President inspected the City Optimized Managed Electric Transport (COMET) e-jeep on display at the hotel. Later, he traveled to Fort Bonifacio in Taguig, Philippines. Then, at the American Manila Cemetery, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, AK, crossing the International Date Line and arriving in the morning. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following afternoon. The White House announced that the President will honor the 2014 National Teacher of the Year and finalists on May 1. The President declared a major disaster in Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding on April 27. April 30 The White House announced that the President will travel to Poland, Belgium, and France in June. The President declared a major disaster in Mississippi and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on April 28 and continuing. May 1 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 met with Sens. Patrick J. Leahy, Carl M. Levin, and Richard J. Durbin and Reps. Christopher Van Hollen and James P. McGovern to discuss negotiations to improve Cuba-U.S. relations. Vice President Joe Biden and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice also attended. The President announced his intention to nominate Tony G. Collins to be a member of the Advisory Board of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert M. Gordon to be Assistant Secretary for the Office of Planning, Evaluation, and Policy Development for the Department of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Cheryl A. LaFleur to be a Commissioner of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate David A. Mader to be Controller of the Office of Federal Financial Management in the Office of Management and Budget. The President announced his intention to nominate John Maeda to be a member of the National Council on the Arts. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeffrey A. Murawsky to be Under Secretary for Health at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Marcia D. Occomy to be U.S. Director of the African Development Bank. The President announced his intention to nominate Gentry O. Smith to be Director of the Office of Foreign Missions, with the rank of Ambassador, at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Debra S. Wada to be Assistant Secretary for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of the Army. The President announced his intention to nominate George A. Krol to be Ambassador to Kazakhstan. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark W. Lippert to be Ambassador to South Korea. The President announced his intention to nominate James D. Nealon to be Ambassador to Honduras. The President announced his intention to nominate Dana Shell Smith to be Ambassador to Qatar. The President announced his intention to appoint Jason W. Young as a member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. The President announced the nomination of Pamela Pepper to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. May 2 In the morning, the President and Vice President Joe Biden welcomed Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to the White House. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden had a bilateral meeting with Chancellor Merkel. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with Chancellor Merkel and other German and U.S. officials. Later, in the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with Asian American and Pacific Islander business and faith leaders to discuss immigration reform. The President declared a major disaster in Alabama and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, winds, and flooding beginning on April 28 and continuing. May 4 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan to offer his condolences for the loss of life in the May 2 landslide in Badakhshan Province and discuss Afghan Government response efforts and international assistance. May 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Luis Guillermo Solís as President of Costa Rica in San Jose, Costa Rica, on May 8: Regina McCarthy (head of delegation); Gonzalo R. Gallegos; and Francisco Palmieri. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Los Angeles area on May 7. The White House announced that the President will travel to Central Arkansas on May 7. May 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Rose Garden, the President recorded separate interviews with local and national meteorologists participating in the "Weather From the White House" program for later broadcast. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Diego, CA, on May 8. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Jose, CA, on May 8. The White House announced that the President will present the Medal of Honor to former Sgt. Kyle J. White, USA, on May 13. 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, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from April 28 through May 6. May 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Little Rock, AR. In the afternoon, aboard Marine One, he, Gov. Michael D. Beebe, Sen. Mark L. Pryor, and Rep. Tim Griffin took an aerial tour of the areas damaged by the tornado that struck Central Arkansas on April 27. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA. In the evening, at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza hotel in Los Angeles, the President attended a USC Shoah Foundation dinner, where he was presented with the Ambassador for Humanity Award by the foundation's founder, filmmaker Steven Spielberg. Later, he traveled to the Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, CA, where he remained overnight. May 8 In the morning, at the Beverly Hilton hotel, the President participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, he traveled to La Jolla, CA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to San Jose, CA. Later, at a private residence, he participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, he traveled to the Fairmont San Jose Hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Michelle Bachelet Jeria of Chile to the White House on June 30. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert S. Beecroft to be Ambassador to Egypt. The President announced his intention to nominate Stuart E. Jones to be Ambassador to Iraq. The President announced his intention to nominate Lisa Mensah to be Under Secretary for Rural Development at the Department of Agriculture. The President announced his intention to appoint Rick Spinrad as Chief Scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at the Department of Commerce. The President announced the nomination of Pamela Harris to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Brenda K. Sannes to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York. May 9 In the morning, the President traveled to Mountain View, CA. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President announced his intention to appoint Julie A. Petty as Chair of the President's Committee for People With Intellectual Disabilities. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Committee for People With Intellectual Disabilities: Peter V. Berns; Jack Martin Brandt; Kenneth Capone; Micah Fialka-Feldman; Zachary W. Holler; Lisa Pugh; Michelle C. Reynolds; Deborah M. Spitalnik; Elizabeth Weintraub; and Sheryl White-Scott. May 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 and Mrs. Obama will travel to the New York City area on May 14. May 13 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 joined National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice's meeting with National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces President Ahmad al-Jarba to discuss the situation in Syria. May 14 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 New York City. Upon arrival, he traveled to Tarrytown, NY. Later, he returned to New York City, where, at the InterContinental New York Times Square hotel, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to the InterContinental New York Barlcay hotel, where he and Mrs. Obama remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will welcome the Super Bowl XLVIII Champion Seattle Seahawks to the White House on May 21. The President announced his intention to nominate Victor M. Mendez to be Deputy Secretary at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert S. Adler to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter M. Rogoff to be Under Secretary for Policy at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Ted Osius to be Ambassador to Vietnam. The President announced his intention to nominate Joan A. Polaschik to be Ambassador to Algeria. The President announced his intention to appoint Thomas J. Reese and Eric P. Schwartz as members of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. May 15 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama toured the National September 11 Memorial & Museum with former Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg of New York City and his companion Diana L. Taylor, former President William J. Clinton, and former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Later, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. May 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, he had a telephone conversation with President Abdullah Gul of Turkey to express his condolences for the loss of life due to a coal mine accident in Soma, Turkey, on May 13 and offer U.S. assistance. Later, he had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the situations in Ukraine and Nigeria and the upcoming conference in Paris on improving regional cooperation to combat the threat posed by the Boko Haram terrorist organization. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi of India to congratulate him on his party's victory in parliamentary elections, discuss India-U.S. relations, and invite Prime Minister-elect Modi to visit Washington, DC. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later, in the East Room, he met with families of the plaintiffs in the Brown v. Board of Education U.S. Supreme Court case, as well as members of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and two lead attorneys in the case, Jack Greenberg and William Coleman. May 17 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of India to thank him for his leadership, discuss India-U.S. relations, and offer his continued support under Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi. May 19 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch with combatant commanders. Later, he traveled to Potomac, MD. While en route, he stopped at Friendship Park in the Cathedral Heights neighborhood of Washington, DC, where he visited with members of the Northwest Little League baseball teams and threw the first pitch of the game. In the evening, he returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will host a signing event for the proclamation establishing the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument in New Mexico on May 21 at the Department of the Interior. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to Cpl. W. Kyle Carpenter, USMC, on June 19. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister John P. Key of New Zealand to the White House on June 20. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Salvador Sanchéz Cerén as President of El Salvador in San Salvador, El Salvador, on June 1: Maria Contreras-Sweet (head of delegation); Mari del Carmen Aponte; Thomas A. Shannon, Jr.; Ricardo Zuniga; and John D. Feeley. The President announced his intention to nominate Geoffrey W. Crawford to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont. The President announced the appointment of Jennifer Yeager Kaplan as Director of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. May 20 In the morning, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with U.S. and international business leaders to discuss trade and investment opportunities under the Department of Commerce's SelectUSA initiative. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Mrs. Obama participated in an interview with Maggie Murphy and Lynn Sherr of Parade magazine. Later, in the East Room, he dropped by the White House Turnaround Arts Talent Show, a student event hosted by Mrs. Obama, and made brief remarks. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cooperstown, NY, on May 22. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on May 22. May 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President received an update from Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki and White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II on the situation at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Later, also in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. Later in the afternoon, while walking to the Department of the Interior with Counselor to the President John D. Podesta, the President stopped on the Ellipse to visit with tourists. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the situation in Syria and reaffirm Jordan-U.S. relations. The President announced the nomination of Armando O. Bonilla, Patricia M. McCarthy, and Jeri K. Somers to be judges on the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. May 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with chief executive officers from the travel and tourism industry to discuss the national economy and tourism's role in boosting growth. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Cooperstown, NY, where he toured the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum with Hall of Fame President Jeffrey L. Idelson and 2010 inductee Andre N. Dawson. Later, he traveled to Chicago, IL. In the evening, upon arrival in Chicago, the President traveled to his Hyde Park-Kenwood residence, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will host the 2014 White House Science Fair on May 27. The President announced his intention to nominate Bruce H. Andrews to be Deputy Secretary of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat to be Ambassador to Bangladesh. The President announced his intention to nominate Marcus D. Jadotte to be Assistant Secretary for Industry and Analysis at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate James D. Pettit to be Ambassador to Moldova. The President announced his intention to nominate Laura S. Wertheimer to be Inspector General of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. The President announced his intention to appoint Caitlin K. Cahow as a member of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. The President announced his intention to appoint Steven Croley as a member of the Council of the Administrative Conference of the U.S. The President announced his intention to appoint Jane Jelenko as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint John S. Kem as a Commissioner of the Mississippi River Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint George A. Elmaraghy, Tom FitzGerald, and Susan Hedman as Commissioners of the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission. May 23 In the morning, at Valois Restaurant, the President had breakfast with Gov. Patrick J. Quinn III of Illinois and visited with patrons. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a bill signing ceremony for H.R. 685, the American Fighter Aces Congressional Gold Medal Act, and H.R.1209, awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the "Doolittle Tokyo Raiders." During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Jacob Zuma of South Africa to congratulate him on his reelection. May 24 In the evening, the President traveled to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, arriving the following evening. Musician Brad D. Paisley accompanied him aboard Air Force One. May 25 In the evening, at Bagram Air Base, the President toured the Joint Operating Center with U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan James B. Cunningham and International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Commander Gen. Joseph F. Dumford, Jr., USA. Later, at the base military hospital, he met with wounded U.S. servicemembers. Then, also at Bagram Air Base, he had a telephone conversation with President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan to congratulate him on the progress being made by the Afghan military and security forces and the successful first round of Presidential elections and express support for an Afghan-led reconciliation process with the Taliban. Later in the evening, the President traveled to Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany, arriving early the following morning. The White House announced that the President will travel to West Point, NY, on May 28 to deliver the commencement address at the U.S. Military Academy. May 26 In the morning, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the State Dining Room, he hosted a breakfast in honor of Memorial Day. Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill T. Biden also attended. Later, he, Mrs. Obama, Vice President Biden, and Mrs. Biden traveled to Arlington, VA, where, at Arlington National Cemetery, they participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, Vice President Biden, and Mrs. Biden returned to Washington, DC. May 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President-elect Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to congratulate him on his May 25 election victory and offer U.S. support and assistance as Ukraine implements economic and democratic reforms. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar to discuss the transfer of five members of the Afghan Taliban from the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay detention center in Cuba to Qatari custody in Doha, Qatar, in exchange for the release of Sgt. Bowe R. Bergdahl, USA, by Taliban forces in Afghanistan. Later, in the State Dining Room, Red Room, and Blue Room, he viewed projects on exhibit for the White House Science Fair. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will host a Healthy Kids & Safe Sports Concussion Summit on May 29. May 28 In the morning, the President traveled to Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, NY. Upon arrival, he traveled to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY. In the afternoon, at the residence of Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Robert L. Caslen, Jr., USA, the President recorded an interview with Steve Inskeep of NPR's "Morning Edition" program for later broadcast. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, while on the West Point campus, the President met with former Amir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani of Qatar to discuss the transfer of five members of the Afghan Taliban from the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay detention center in Cuba to Qatari custody in Doha, Qatar, in exchange for the release of Sgt. Bowe R. Bergdahl, USA, by Taliban forces in Afghanistan. May 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President had lunch with former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. Later, on the South Lawn, he joined students participating in a sports clinic as part of the White House Healthy Kids & Safe Sports Concussion Summit. During the day, in the Blue Room, the President recorded an interview with Kelly Ripa and Michael Strahan of ABC's "Live! With Kelly & Michael" program for later broadcast. May 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Sloan D. Gibson. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Later, at Federal Emergency Management Agency headquarters, he received a briefing on Federal preparedness efforts ahead of the 2014 hurricane season from Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Administrator Kathryn Sullivan, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh C. Johnson, and Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator W. Craig Fugate. Later, at the Children's National Medical Center, he visited with children being treated for asthma and other respiratory illnesses aggravated by air pollution. May 31 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Robert and Jani Bergdahl, parents of Sgt. Bowe R. Bergdahl, USA, who was released from captivity by Taliban forces in Afghanistan earlier in the day. June 2 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 traveled to Warsaw, Poland, arriving the following morning. June 3 In the morning, upon arrival at Warsaw Chopin Airport in Warsaw, the President and President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland toured a hangar housing F-16 aircraft and met with U.S. and Polish military personnel. Later, at Belweder Palace in Warsaw, he met with President Komorowski. In the afternoon, at Koniecpolski Palace in Warsaw, the President participated in a photograph with Central and Eastern European leaders. Then, he traveled to the Warsaw Marriott Hotel. In the evening, at the Royal Castle in Warsaw, the President attended a Solidarity Dinner. Then, he returned to the Warsaw Marriott Hotel, where he remained overnight. The President announced his intention to nominate John R. Bass to be Ambassador to Turkey. The President announced his intention to nominate Leslie Ann Bassett to be Ambassador to Paraguay. The President announced his intention to nominate Allan P. Mustard to be Ambassador to Turkmenistan. The President announced his intention to nominate Todd D. Robinson to be Ambassador to Guatemala. The President announced his intention to appoint Maurice Obstfeld as a member of the Council of Economic Advisers. The President announced his intention to appoint Shefali Razdan Duggal as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. June 4 In the morning, at the Warsaw Marriott Hotel, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Later, at the Royal Castle in Warsaw, he participated in a family photo with leaders attending the Freedom Day commemoration. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Brussels, Belgium, where, upon arrival, he traveled to The Hotel. In the evening, at the Royal Palace of Brussels, the President participated in an official photograph followed by a meeting with King Philippe and Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo of Belgium. Later, at the Justus Lipsius Building in Brussels, the headquarters of the Council of the European Union, he participated in a photograph with European Commission President José Manuel Durão Barroso and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy. Then, also at the Justus Lipsius Building, he attended a working dinner with Group of Seven (G-7) leaders. Later, he returned to The Hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2014 NCAA Champion University of Connecticut men's and women's basketball teams to the White House on June 9. June 5 In the morning, at the Justus Lipsius Building, the President attended a Group of Seven (G-7) leaders meeting on the global economy. Then, also at the Justus Lipsius Building, he participated in an official photograph with G-7 leaders, followed by a G-7 leaders meeting on energy and climate issues. In the afternoon, at the Justus Lipsius Building, the President participated in a working lunch with Group of Seven (G-7) leaders on development. Then, also at the Justus Lipsius Building, he met with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom. Later, he traveled to Paris, France, where, upon arrival, he traveled to the U.S. Ambassador's residence. In the evening, at Le Chiberta restaurant in Paris, the President had dinner with President François Hollande of France. They were joined by Secretary of State John F. Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development Laurent Fabius and Director General for Political Affairs and Security Jacques Audibert of France. Later, at Restaurant Helen, he met with National Security Adviser Rice, White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett, and Laurent Delanney of Monte-Carlo, Monaco, a friend of the President. Then, he returned to the U.S. Ambassador's residence, where he remained overnight. The President announced his intention to nominate Kevin F. O'Malley to be Ambassador to Ireland. The President announced his intention to nominate Jessie H. Roberson to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, and upon appointment, to designate him as Vice Chair. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel J. Santos to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Petro Poroshenko as President of Ukraine in Kiev, Ukraine, on June 7: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (head of delegation); Geoffrey R. Pyatt; John S. McCain III; Ron H. Johnson; Christopher S. Murphy; Marcia C. Kaptur; Daniel B. Baer; and Victoria J. Nuland. June 6 In the morning, the President traveled to Carpiquet, France. Upon arrival, he traveled to Omaha Beach in Normandy, where he met with U.S. military veterans and servicemembers. Later, at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, he toured the observation deck with President François Hollande of France. In the afternoon, while at Omaha Beach, the President recorded an interview with Brian Williams of NBC's "NBC Nightly News With Brian Williams" program for later broadcast. Then, he traveled to Bénouville, France, where, at the Château de Bénouville, he participated in a photo opportunity for leaders attending the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the D-day landing at Normandy, followed by a heads-of-state lunch. At the conclusion of the lunch, he met informally with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine. President Obama emphasized the need for Russia to recognize President-elect Petro Poroshenko as the legitimate leader of Ukraine, end support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, stop the provision of arms across the Russia-Ukraine border, and work with the Ukrainian Government to reduce tensions. He also indicated that failure to take these steps would increase Russia's international isolation. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Ouistreham, France, where, at Sword Beach, he attended the Ouistreham International Ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of D-day. Then, he returned to Paris, France, arriving in the evening. In the evening, at Paris Orly International Airport, the President met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The White House announced that the President will welcome the Women's National Basketball Association Champion Minnesota Lynx to the White House on June 12. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the opening of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on June 12: Daniel H. Pfeiffer (head of delegation); Liliana Ayalde; Michelle Akers; and Gabrielle Reece. The President announced his intention to nominate Jane D. Hartley to be Ambassador to France. The President Obama announced his intention to nominate Cary Douglas Pugh to be a judge on the U.S. Tax Court. The President announced his intention to appoint Mia Guttfreund Lehrer as a member of the Commission of Fine Arts. June 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with nurses from across the country to discuss immigration reform. In the afternoon, the President and White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough walked to the local Starbucks for coffee, greeting people along the way. Later, in the Situation Room, he participated in a video teleconference with Governors from eight Western States to discuss the ongoing severe drought in the West, efforts to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season, and Federal funding for wildfire suppression efforts. The White House announced that the President will travel to Worcester, MA, on June 11. June 10 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Alexandria, VA, where, at FireFlies restaurant, he had lunch with Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, had a telephone conversation with owner Marylisa Lichens, and greeted patrons. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Abdelfattah Said Elsisi of Egypt to congratulate him on his Inauguration, convey his commitment to advancing Egypt-U.S. relations, and reiterate U.S. support for human rights in Egypt. June 11 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 members of the U.S. Sentencing Commission. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Worcester, MA. Later, he traveled to Weston, MA. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cannon Ball, ND, on June 13. The White House announced that the President will travel to Palm Springs, CA, on June 13. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Los Angeles area and Anaheim, CA, on June 14. The President declared a major disaster in Vermont and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding from April 15 through 18. June 12 In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. During the day, the President met with the National Security Council to discuss the situation in Iraq. The President announced an updated designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the opening of the 2014 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup game in Sao Paulo, Brazil on June 12: H. Daniel Pfeiffer (head of delegation); Liliana Ayalde; and Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak. The White House announced further details on the President's awarding of the Medal of Honor to Cpl. W. Kyle Carpenter, USMC, on June 19. June 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Cannon Ball, ND, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the situations in Iraq and Ukraine and the recent Group of Seven (G-7) meetings. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama participated in a roundtable discussion with Native American youth. Later, they traveled to Rancho Mirage, CA. Upon arrival, they traveled to the private residence of U.S. Ambassador to Spain James Costos, where they remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Maker Faire on June 18. The White House announced that the President will travel to Pittsburgh, PA, on June 17. The President announced his intention to nominate the following individuals to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania: Wendy Beetlestone; Mark A. Kearney; Joseph F. Leeson, Jr.; and Gerald J. Pappert. The President announced his intention to nominate Victor A. Bolden to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut. The President announced his intention to nominate Erica J. Barks Ruggles to be Ambassador to Rwanda. The President announced his intention to nominate Brent R. Hartley to be Ambassador to Slovenia. The President announced his intention to nominate Donald L. Heflin to be Ambassador to Cabo Verde. The President announced his intention to nominate Earl R. Miller to be Ambassador to Botswana. The President announced his intention to nominate David Pressman to be U.S. Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the National Science Board for the National Science Foundation: John Anderson; Roger N. Beachy; Vicki Chandler; Robert M. Groves; James S. Jackson; and Sethuraman Panchanathan. The President announced his intention to appoint Rodney Ewing as Chairman of the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board: Sue Clark; Linda Nozick; Kenneth Peddicord; and Paul Turinsky. June 14 In the morning, the President traveled to Laguna Beach, CA, where, at a private residence, he participated in a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. Later, he traveled to Anaheim, CA. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Rancho Mirage, CA. In the evening, the President returned to the private residence of U.S. Ambassador to Spain James Costos, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President received telephone updates on the situation in Iraq from National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice. The President announced his intention to appoint Richard R. Kasher as Chair of Presidential Emergency Board No. 246. The President announced his intention to appoint Ann S. Kenis and Bonnie S. Weinstock as members of Presidential Emergency Board No. 246. June 15 In the morning, the President received a telephone update on the situation in Iraq from National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with King Juan Carlos I of Spain to congratulate him on his reign ahead of the upcoming investiture of his son, Crown Prince Felipe, and reaffirm Spain-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City on June 17. June 16 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. In the evening, the President met with the National Security Council to discuss the situation in Iraq and review possible response options. June 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Pittsburgh, PA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President toured the facilities of TechShop Pittsburgh, a community workshop and prototyping studio, with General Manager Matt Verlinich. Later, he traveled to New York City, where, at the Intercontinental New York Times Square hotel, he attended a roundtable event for the Senate Majority PAC. In the evening, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser and dinner. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. 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, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding on May 11 and 12. June 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, on the South Lawn, he viewed projects exhibited as part of the White House Maker Faire. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President had a working lunch with economists Anat Admati, Alan S. Blinder, Erik Brynjolfsson, Roland Fryer, Claudia Goldin, and Paul Krugman to discuss efforts to accelerate economic growth, expand opportunity, and improve U.S. business competitiveness. Later, 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, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to discuss the situation in Iraq and review possible response options. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. June 19 In the morning, in the Situation Room, the President met with his national security team to discuss the situation in Iraq and review possible response options. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico to discuss joint efforts to respond to the influx of unaccompanied alien children across the Mexico-U.S. border and ways to advance immigration reform. The President announced his intention to appoint Jonathan A. Yuen as a member of the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. The President announced his intention to appoint Earl E. Krygier as the U.S. Commissioner of the United States Section of the North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Susan Axelrod; James T. Brett; Dan Habib; Stacey Milbern; Susana Ramirez; Ricardo Thornton, Sr.; and Betty Williams. The President announced the noimation of David J. Hale and Greg N. Stivers to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The President announced the nomination of Arthur L. Bentley III to be U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Florida. The President announced the nomination of David Rivera to be U.S. attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. June 20 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Gregg Popovich of the National Basketball Association's San Antonio Spurs to congratulate him on his team's victory in the NBA Finals. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany and President François Hollande of France to discuss the situations in Ukraine and Iraq. Also during the day, he had a telephone conversation with Dustin Brown, captain of the National Hockey League's Los Angeles Kings, to congratulate him on his performance in the Stanley Cup Championship and commend his role as a leader on the U.S. men's hockey team for the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. The White House announced that the President will welcome 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson to the White House on June 25. The President announced his intention to nominate Carolyn Watts Colvin to be Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. June 22 In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception for Ford's Theatre. June 23 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 President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine, the removal of chemical weapons from Syria, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons. In the afternoon, at Chipotle Mexican Grill, the President had lunch with White House Summit on Working Families attendees Lisa Rumain of Martinsville, NJ, Roger Trombley of Ann Arbor, MI, Shelby Ramirez of Denver, CO, and Shirley Young of New York City. Later, at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, he participated in a roundtable discussion at the White House Summit on Working Families. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to S. Sgt. Ryan M. Pitts, USA, on July 21. June 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situations in Ukraine and Iraq. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Minneapolis, MN, on June 26. June 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he and President Shimon Peres of Israel dropped by a meeting of leaders of the U.S. Jewish community. In the afternoon, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with President Peres. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with President Peres. Later, on the State Floor, he and Vice President Biden met with members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez as President of Panama in Panama City, Panama, on July 1: John F. Kerry; Jonathan D. Farrar; Deval L. Patrick; and Roberta S. Jacobson. June 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, he was briefed by his homeland security team on the floods affecting parts of Minnesota. Later, he traveled to Minneapolis, MN, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, at Matt's Bar & Grill in Minneapolis, the President had lunch with St. Anthony, MN, resident Rebekah Erler, who had written a letter to the President describing the economic challenges faced by her family. Later, he traveled to Saint Paul, MN, where, at Golden Fig food market, he purchased items and met with owner Laurie McCann Crowell, who had written a letter to the President inviting him to visit the store. Then, he walked to the Grand Ole Creamery ice cream shop, where he greeted patrons and purchased ice cream. In the evening, the President traveled to the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel in Bloomington, MN, where he remained overnight. The President announced the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the final match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 13: Heather A. Higginbottom (head of delegation); Liliana Ayalde; Jonathan McBride; John P. Bilbrey; and Cobi Jones. The President announced his intention to nominate Christopher Hart to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate John W. Leslie, Jr., to be a member of the Board of Directors of the U.S. African Development Foundation, and upon appointment, to designate him as Chairperson. The President announced his intention to appoint Donald L. Pereira and Douglas L. Stang as Commissioners of the U.S. Section of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. The President announced the nomination of Madeline Cox Arleo to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The President announced the nomination of Amos L. Mazzant III and Robert W. Schroeder III to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The President announced the nomination of Robert L. Pitman to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas. June 27 In the morning, the President traveled to Minneapolis, MN, where, at the Minnesota Workforce Development Center, he, Sen. Al Franken, and Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez visited with young mothers participating in a job training program. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Acting Secretary of Veterans Affairs Sloan D. Gibson and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Robert L. Nabors II to discuss efforts to implement reforms and improve care in the Veterans Health Administration. In the evening, at the Marine Barracks, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughter Sasha attended the Evening Parade. During the day, in the Blue Room, the President recorded an interview with Norah O'Donnell of CBS's "CBS This Morning" program for later broadcast. He also recorded separate interviews with Mika Brzezinski of MSNBC's "Morning Joe" program and Kate Bolduan of CNN's "New Day" program for later broadcast. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks on the economy at the Georgetown Waterfront Park on July 1. June 29 In the afternoon, the President and his daughter Sasha traveled to Great Falls National Park in McLean, VA. Later, they returned to Washington, DC. June 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President and Secretary-designate of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald walked through Lafayette Park.