Barack Obama 2014-07-01 2 Appendix A-- Digest of Other White House Announcements The following list includes the President's public schedule and other items of general interest announced by the Office of the Press Secretary and not included elsewhere in this book. July 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the South Court Auditorium of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, the President joined members of his staff to watch the U.S.-Belgium World Cup soccer game on television. July 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to express his best wishes on the occasion of Ramadan and discuss the situation in Iraq. In the afternoon, in the Old Family Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch with leading economists to discuss efforts to accelerate economic growth, expand opportunity, and improve U.S. business competitiveness. Later, in the Oval Office, the President recorded an interview with Kai Ryssdal of American Public Media's "Marketplace Morning Report" program for later broadcast. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with U.S. Men's National Soccer Team captain Clinton D. Dempsey and goalkeeper Timothy M. Howard to congratulate them on their team's performance in the 2014 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup in Brazil. July 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, at 1776, a startup hub and technology incubator, he greeted members and participated in one-on-one conversations with young entrepreneurs. 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 Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine. Later, in the Library, he recorded an interview with Ken Burns of PBS. Mrs. Obama later joined him for a second interview with Mr. Burns. July 6 The White House announced that the President will travel to Austin, TX, on July 9 and 10. July 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts with separatist elements, and international diplomatic efforts to secure Russian support for the new Ukrainian Government. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Afghan Presidential candidate Abdullah Abdullah to discuss the June runoff election, the need for calm and restraint during the final tabulation of results, and the necessity for a thorough investigation of any election fraud. The White House announced that the President will travel to Denver, CO, on July 8 and 9. The White House announced that the President will travel to Dallas, TX, on July 9. July 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the June runoff election in Afghanistan. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception for the diplomatic corps. Later, he traveled to Denver, CO, arriving in the evening. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Afghan Presidential candidate Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai to discuss the June runoff election, the need for calm and restraint during the final tabulation of results, and the necessity for a thorough investigation of any election fraud. In the evening, upon arrival in Denver, the President traveled to the Wazee Supper Club, where he had dinner with wage worker Alex Dooley, college student Elizabeth Cooper, small-business owner Carolyn Reed and her husband David Johnson, and teacher Leslie Gresham, who had written him letters about issues affecting the middle class. Later, he took a walk in the area surrounding the restaurant and greeted local residents. Then, he traveled to the Wynkoop Brewing Company, where he visited with patrons, had a beer, and shot some pool with Gov. John W. Hickenlooper of Colorado. Later in the evening, the President traveled to the Renaissance Denver Hotel, where he remained overnight. The President declared a major disaster in New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from May 13 through 22. The President announced his intention to nominate Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall to be Deputy Secretary of Energy. The President announced his intention to nominate Jess Lippincott Baily to be Ambassador to Macedonia. The President announced his intention to nominate Judith B. Cefkin to be Ambassador to the Fiji Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, and Tuvalu. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert F. Cekuta to be Ambassador to Azerbaijan. The President announced his intention to nominate S. Fitzgerald Haney to be Ambassador to Costa Rica. The President announced his intention to nominate Michele J. Sison to be U.S. Deputy Representative to the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador, and U.S. Deputy Representative in the Security Council of the United Nations. The President announced his intention to nominate Margaret A. Uyehara to be Ambassador to Montenegro. The President announced his intention to nominate James P. Zumwalt to be Ambassador to Senegal and Guinea Bissau. The President declared a major disaster in New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from May 13 through 22. July 9 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Dallas, TX. Upon arrival at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, he and Gov. J. Richard Perry of Texas traveled to Dallas Love Field airport. Later, at DalFort Fueling, he met with State and local officials and faith leaders to discuss the influx of unaccompanied alien children arriving across the Mexico-U.S. border. In the evening, the President traveled to Austin, TX. Later, he traveled to the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol, where he remained overnight. July 10 In the morning, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, at the Magnolia Cafe, he had coffee with Kinsey Button, a student at the University of Texas at Austin who had written him a letter about issues affecting her and her family. He also visited with staff and greeted patrons. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Franklin Barbecue, where he purchased lunch and visited briefly with patrons. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the situation in Gaza, the recent kidnapping and murder of Israeli and Palestinian teenagers, and joint efforts to negotiate a cease-fire agreement. They also discussed international diplomatic efforts to halt the development of nuclear weapons in Iran. The President announced his intention to nominate Craig B. Allen to be Ambassador to Brunei. The President announced his intention to nominate Sharon Block to be a member of the National Labor Relations Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard M. Mills, Jr., to be Ambassador to Armenia. The President announced his intention to nominate Joseph L. Nimmich to be Deputy Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Anne E. Rung to be Administrator for Federal Procurement Policy at the Office of Management and Budget. The President announced his intention to nominate Alissa M. Starzak to be General Counsel of the Department of the Army. The President announced his intention to nominate John F. Tefft to be Ambassador to Russia. The President announced his intention to appoint Charles Benton as a member of the National Museum and Library Services Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Robert Langer as a member of the President's Committee on the National Medal of Science. The President announced his intention to appoint Lillian M. Lowery as a member 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 Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: Anne Ashmore-Hudson; Steven M. Goldman; Dale LeFebvre; and Anita Lin. July 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he met with large company executives and their small-business suppliers to discuss the launch of the SupplierPay initiative, a new partnership between the Federal Government and the private sector to strengthen small businesses by increasing their working capital, and discuss ways to strengthen the national economy. The White House announced that the President will travel to McLean, VA, on July 15. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to Tbilisi, Georgia, to attend the funeral service of former President Eduard Shevardnadze of Georgia: James A. Baker III (head of delegation); and Richard B. Norland. July 13 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situation in Ukraine, the recent Presidential election in Afghanistan, efforts to form a new government in Iraq, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons. July 14 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President greeted wounded servicemembers and their families during a tour of the White House. Then, in the Private Dining Room, he and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S.: Jose Luis Fialho Rocha of Cabo Verde, Prasad Kariyawasam of Sri Lanka, Tigran Sargsyan of Armenia, Mamady Conde of Guinea, and Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke of Somalia. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Xi Jinping of China to discuss progress achieved during the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, U.S.-China cooperation in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons and ensure that North Korea meets its denuclearization commitments, and the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders' meeting in Beijing. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to S. Sgt. Ryan M. Pitts, USA, on July 21. The White House announced that the President will travel to Wilmington, DE, on July 17. The President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding on June 3 and 4. July 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to McLean, VA, where he toured the Federal Highway Administration's Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center with Secretary of Transportation Anthony R. Foxx, Research Center Director Michael F. Trentacoste, and Connected Vehicle Program Manager Carl K. Andersen. During the tour, he tested a self-driving car simulator and met with researchers. In the afternoon, the President 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 Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine, ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons, and Germany-U.S. intelligence cooperation. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City on July 17. The President announced the appointment of the following individuals as members of the National Council on Federal Labor-Management Relations: J. David Cox; Michael B. Filler; David J. Holway; and H.T. Nguyen. July 16 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 State John F. Kerry. Later, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, they met with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to discuss immigration reform and the President's request for supplemental funding to address the influx of migrants in the Río Grande Valley areas of the Mexico-U.S. border. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs Jonathan D. Samuels. The White House announced that the President will travel to Martha's Vineyard, MA, on August 9. July 17 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine. During the call, President Putin noted early reports of a downed passenger jet near the Russia-Ukraine border. Later, the President was briefed on the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 near the Russia-Ukraine border. Then, he traveled to Wilmington, DE. In the afternoon, upon arrival in Wilmington, the President traveled to the Charcoal Pit restaurant, where he had lunch with Newark, DE, resident Tanei Benjamin, who had written a letter to the President describing her experience as a working single mother. Then, he traveled to Port of Wilmington, DE. Later, he traveled to New York City. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had separate telephone conversations with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine and Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and offer U.S. assistance in investigating the crash. President Obama and President Poroshenko discussed the need for all evidence to remain in place on Ukrainian territory until examined by international investigators, and President Obama expressed his condolences to Prime Minister Najib and the Malaysian people for the loss of life. Later in the afternoon, upon arrival in New York City, the President had a telephone conversation with Secretary of State John F. Kerry to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and the situation in Israel and Gaza. Then, he received a teleconference briefing from Director of the Central Intelligence Agency John O. Brennan, White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence Stephanie O'Sullivan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, and Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes on the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17. Later, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, at a private residence, the President participated in a House Majority PAC roundtable discussion. Also in the evening, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands to express his condolences for the deaths of Dutch citizens traveling on Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and offer U.S. assistance in investigating the crash. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Charles C. Adams, Jr., to be Ambassador to Finland. The President announced his intention to nominate Charles H. Fulghum to be Chief Financial Officer at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Adri D. Jayaratne to be Assistant Secretary for Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Department of Labor. The President announced his intention to nominate Barbara A. Leaf to be Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. The President announced his intention to nominate Virginia E. Palmer to be Ambassador to Malawi. The President announced his intention to nominate William V. Roebuck to be Ambassador to Bahrain. The President announced his intention to nominate Mickey D. Barnett to be a Governor on the Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service. The President announced his intention to nominate James L. Huffman to be a member of the Board of Trustees of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew V. Masterson and Christy A. McCormick to be Commissioners on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Donald J. Butt as a member of the Advisory Committee to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint Ethan Epstein as a member of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Military Academy. The President announced his intention to appoint Virna L. Winters as a member of the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. July 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had a meeting with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew, followed by a meeting with Secretary Lew and Secretary of State John F. Kerry. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, including the importance of a prompt, full, unimpeded, and transparent international investigation and the need for immediate access by international investigators to the crash site. The President offered his condolences for the deaths of Australian citizens traveling on Flight 17 and continuing U.S. support and cooperation. In the evening, the President traveled to Camp David, MD, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 in Ukraine; recent actions taken by the U.S. and the European Union against individuals and entities from Russia and elsewhere involved in destabilizing Ukraine; and Russia's responsibility for denying separatists in eastern Ukraine continued access to heavy weapons and other support. Also during the day, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the crash of Flight 17 and recent international efforts to increase the costs to Russia for its failure to deescalate the situation in Ukraine. They also discussed the situation in Israel and Gaza and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Otto Fernando Pérez Molina of Guatemala, President Juan Orlando Hernández Alvarado of Honduras, and President Salvador Sánchez Cerén of El Salvador to the White House on July 25. July 19 The White House announced that the President will visit Walker-Jones Education Campus in Washington, DC, on July 21. The White House announced that the President will travel to Seattle, WA, on July 22. July 20 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the situation in Gaza. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and the necessity of a prompt international investigation. July 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with his Homeland Security Council to discuss the humanitarian situation at the Mexico-U.S. border. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the upcoming NATO summit in Wales. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Francisco, CA, on July 22. The White House announced that the President will travel to Los Angeles, CA, on July 23. The President declared a major disaster in Minnesota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from June 11 through July 11. July 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Apollo 11 crewmembers Edwin E. "Buzz" Aldrin, Jr., and Michael Collins and Carol Armstrong, wife of late Apollo 11 crewmember Neal A. Armstrong, to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the first Moon landing. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 and the importance of securing the crash site to allow for a full and transparent international investigation. Later, he traveled to Seattle, WA. In the evening, at a private residence, the President attended a Senate Majority PAC roundtable fundraiser event. Later, he traveled to San Francisco, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with President-elect Joko "Jokowi" Widodo of Indonesia to congratulate him on his July 9 election victory, commend the Indonesian people on their commitment to democracy, and reaffirm Indonesia-U.S. relations. Upon arrival in San Francisco, he traveled to the InterContinental San Francisco Hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will award the 2013 National Medal of Arts and National Humanities Medal on July 28. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeffery M. Baran and Stephen G. Burns to be Commissioners of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Jonodev O. Chaudhuri to be Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Anita Bevacqua McBride and Joseph Falk as members of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. July 23 In the morning, the President traveled to the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, where he attended a House Majority PAC event. Later, he traveled to Los Altos Hills, CA. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Los Angeles, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Secretary of State John F. Kerry to discuss efforts to negotiate a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, he traveled to the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills hotel in Beverly Hills. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles. In the evening, the President returned to the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills hotel, where he remained overnight. The President declared an emergency in Washington and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts in the area affected by wildfires beginning on July 9 and continuing. July 24 In the morning, the President traveled to a private residence, where he participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable discussion. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Canter's Fairfax delicatessen and restaurant, where he visited with patrons and had lunch with Katrice Mubiru, Aaron Anderson, Joan Waddell, and Kati Koster, who had all written letters to him about issues affecting the middle class. Later, at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, in the library, he participated in a live interview with Steve Liesman of CNBC. Later in the afternoon, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico to discuss the situation at the Mexico-U.S. border. He also had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia and Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands to discuss the crash of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17, express again his condolences on behalf of the American people, and reaffirm the need for full, international access to the crash site, an open and transparent investigation, and repatriation of remains. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks at the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders Presidential Summit on July 28. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas R. Frieden to be Representative of the U.S. on the Executive Board of the World Health Organization. The President announced his intention to nominate Perry L. Holloway to be Ambassador to Guyana. The President announced his intention to nominate Willie E. May to be Under Secretary for Standards and Technology at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Therese W. McMillan to be Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Pamela L. Spratlen to be Ambassador to Uzbekistan. The President announced his intention to appoint Betsaida Alcantara as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced his intention to appoint Karen K. Narasaki and Patricia Timmons-Goodson as Commissioners of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. The President announced his intention to appoint Michael P. Ross as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from June 14 through 23. 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 from June 14 through 21. July 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Oval Office, he had separate telephone conversations with Afghan Presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai to thank them for supporting the agreement to form a national unity government and encourage them to accept the audit of ballots cast in the June 14 runoff election. During the day, in the East Room, the President visited with members of the American Legion Boys and Girls State programs and participated in a photo opportunity. Then, in the Vice President's Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with 108-year-old Lucy Coffey, the oldest living female U.S. veteran, to thank her for her service in World War II. July 26 The White House announced that the President will travel to Kansas City, MO, on July 29. July 27 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the situation in Gaza and international efforts to secure a renewed cease-fire based on the November 2012 agreement. July 28 In the morning, the President participated in a video conference with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, President François Hollande of France, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the situations in Ukraine, Gaza, Iraq, and Libya. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the World War I Centennial Commemoration in Liege, Belgium, on August 4: John M. McHugh (head of delegation); Denise Campbell Bauer; Philip M. Breedlove; and Alfred A. Valenzuela. The President announced his intention to nominate David N. Saperstein to be Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom at the Department of State. 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 from June 1 through 4. The President declared a major disaster in South Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, local, and tribal recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding from June 13 through 20. July 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with House Democrats to discuss the national economy. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President visited with the summer class of White House Interns and participated in a photo opportunity. Later, he traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he visited with wounded servicemembers and their families. Then, he traveled to Kansas City, MO, arriving in the evening. In the evening, at Arthur Bryant's Barbeque restaurant, the President had dinner with public sector employee Victor L. Fugate, Jr., small-business owner Valerie McCaw, nonprofit worker Mark Turner, and neighborhood organizer Becky Forrest, who had all written letters to him about issues affecting the middle class. July 30 In the morning, the President traveled to Parkville, MO, where, at Parkville Coffee shop, he visited with patrons and staff and ordered drinks. Then, at the Cool Vintage Watches memorabilia shop and Peddlers Wagon quilt and gift shop, he visited with staff. In the afternoon, he returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Manson K. Brown to be Assistant Secretary for Environmental Observation and Prediction at the Department of Commerce. The President announced his intention to nominate Carmen A. Corrales to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Rafael J. López to be Commissioner on Children, Youth, and Families at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced his intention to appoint Evan J. Wallach as a member of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Naval Academy The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China: Christopher P. Lu; Tom Malinowski; Daniel R. Russel; Stefan M. Selig; and Sarah Sewall. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans: Peggy L. Brookins; Kent McGuire; Evelynn M. Hammonds; Michael T. Nettles; Spencer Overton; Becky Pringle; and John Rice. The President announced his intention to appoint Regina Stanback Stroud as a member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. July 31 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Cabinet Room, they met with Members of Congress to discuss national security issues. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with 2014 Kavli Prize laureates in astrophysics, nanoscience, and neuroscience and participated in a photo opportunity. The President announced his intention to nominate Andrew L. Eanes to be Deputy Commissioner of Social Security at the Social Security Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Mari del Carmen Aponte to be Permanent Representative of the United States of America to the Organization of American States, with the rank of Ambassador, at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Lourdes M. Castro Ramírez to be Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Brodi L. Fontenot to be Chief Financial Officer at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Mary L. Jordan to be a member of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, and upon appointment, to be designated Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate P. David Lopez to be General Counsel of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert T. Yamate to be Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros. The President announced the nomination of Allison Dale Burroughs to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The President announced the nomination of Amit P. Mehta to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The President announced his intention to appoint Tanya J. Bradsher as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint Brian de Vallance as Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint John Norris as a member of the President's Global Development Council. August 1 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in Ukraine and Russia-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a bill-signing ceremony for S. 517, the Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act. August 2 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Camp David, MD, where he remained overnight. August 3 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. August 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with his senior advisers. The White House announced that the President will travel to Fort Belvoir, VA, on August 7. August 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. He also had a telephone conversation with Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., USMC, commander, International Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan, to discuss the shooting at Marshal Fahim National Defense University in Kabul, Afghanistan, in which Maj. Gen. Harold J. Greene, USA, was killed and additional coalition military personnel were wounded by a member of the Afghan National Security Forces. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The President announced the nomination of Jorge L. Alonso and John R. Blakey to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The President declared a major disaster in Iowa and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from June 26 through July 7. August 6 In the afternoon, at the Department of State, the President participated in a family photograph with leaders attending the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. Later, also at the Department of State, he participated in a leaders session on peace and regional stability, followed by a leaders session on governing for the next generation. In the evening, while en route to the White House, the President was briefed in his limousine by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, USA, on the situation in Iraq. Then, in the Oval Office, they met with the President's national security team. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Juan Manuel Santos Calderon as President of Colombia in Bogota, Colombia, on August 7: Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. (head of delegation); Kevin Whitaker; and Ramona E. Romero. August 7 In the morning, in the Situation Room, the President met with his national security team to discuss the situation in Iraq. He was also briefed by Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco on preparations for Hurricanes Iselle and Julio. Later, he traveled to Fort Belvoir, VA. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Then, in the Situation Room, he met with his national security team to discuss the situation in Iraq. Joining the meeting separately by videoconference were Secretary of State John F. Kerry from Afghanistan, Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel from India, U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power, and Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, USA, commander, U.S. Central Command. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Martha's Vineyard, MA, on August 9, and that the President will return to Washington, DC, on August 17, then travel to Martha's Vineyard on August 19, and return to Washington, DC, on August 24. August 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the situations in Iraq and Gaza. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. Also in the morning, in the Oval Office, the President was briefed by National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, Deputy National Security Adviser Antony J. Blinken, and National Security Adviser to the Vice President Jake Sullivan on the situation in Iraq. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker. Later, in the Map Room, he participated in an interview with Thomas L. Friedman of the New York Times for later broadcast online. August 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the situation in Iraq, the need for an urgent, international response to the humanitarian crisis on Mount Sinjar, the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization to all Iraqi communities, and targeted strikes to protect U.S. personnel and prevent ISIL's advance on the city of Erbil. He also had a separate telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to discuss the situations in Iraq and Ukraine and efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Later in the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughter Malia traveled to Chilmark, MA, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, where he remained overnight. August 10 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA, where he remained overnight. August 11 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, Russia's continued military intervention in Ukraine's affairs, and efforts to deliver multilateral humanitarian aid to the distressed populations in eastern Ukraine. He also had a separate telephone conversation with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the situations in Iraq, Libya, and Ukraine, as well as the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Edgartown, MA. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Tisbury, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister-designate Haider al-Abadi of Iraq to congratulate him on his appointment as Prime Minister, express U.S. support for the formation of a new Government and ongoing reconciliation efforts among Iraq's sectarian communities, and discuss U.S.-Iraq security cooperation. 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 wildfires from July 9 through August 5. August 12 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Edgartown, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Chilmark, where they remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the situation in Iraq, international efforts to provide humanitarian and security assistance to the civilians trapped on Mount Sinjar, operations to counter the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, and the need for continued reconciliation efforts by Iraqi political leaders from all factions to form an inclusive Government. He also had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to congratulate him on his election as President and discuss the situations in Iraq, Syria, and Gaza. August 13 In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA, to attend a birthday party for Ann Jordan at the Farm Neck Golf Club. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Chilmark, MA, where they remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the situation in Gaza and the ongoing negotiations in Cairo, Egypt, to achieve a sustainable cease-fire agreement. The President declared a major disaster in Tennessee 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 June 5 through 10. August 14 In the morning, at his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA, the President was briefed on the situation in Ferguson, MO, by Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Edgartown, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and President Ernest Bai Koroma of Sierra Leone to discuss U.S. and international efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and express his condolences for the lives lost. August 15 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to West Tisbury, MA. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA, where he remained overnight. August 16 The White House announced that the President will return to Washington, DC, on August 17. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to West Tisbury, MA. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Chilmark, MA, where they remained overnight. August 17 In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. Later, they traveled to Edgartown, MA. Later, he and his daughter Malia returned to Washington, DC. August 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, they met with the National Security Council to discuss the situation in Iraq. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., to receive an update on the situation in Ferguson, MO. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cape Cod, MA, on August 19. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeanne E. Davidson to be a judge on the U.S. Court of International Trade. The President announced his intention to nominate Haywood S. Gilliam, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. August 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with economic advisers to discuss the national economy. Later, he traveled to Chilmark, MA. The President declared a major disaster in North Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from June 25 through July 1. August 20 The President announced his intention to appoint Patricia Welbourn Lorsch and Rusty Rueff as members of the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Orlan Boston as a member of the Board of Governors of the United Service Organizations, Inc. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as General Trustees on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: John D. Goldman; Amalia Perea Mahoney; Alyssa Mastromonaco; and Reginald Van Lee. The President announced his intention to appoint Danielle C. Gray as a member of the Council of the Administrative Conference of the United States. The President announced his intention to appoint Barry Thom as a U.S. Commissioner of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Allan Holt as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. August 21 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark, MA. In the evening, at their vacation residence, the President and Mrs. Obama had dinner with Gov. Deval L. Patrick of Massachusetts. They remained overnight in Chilmark. August 22 In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA, where they remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine, mutual concern over Russia's continued intervention in Ukrainian affairs, and the importance of securing a bilateral cease-fire. August 23 In the early morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to their vacation residence in Chilmark, MA. Later, he traveled to Oak Bluffs, MA. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Chilmark. The White House announced that the President will travel to Charlotte, NC, on August 26. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha will return to Washington, DC, on August 24. August 24 In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughter Malia returned to Washington, DC. August 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. August 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Charlotte, NC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he met with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to CSM Bennie G. Adkins, USA, and posthumously to S4 Donald P. Sloat, USA, on September 15. The President announced the designation of Jess Lippincott Baily as a member of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Recep Tayyip Erdogan as President of Turkey in Ankara, Turkey, on August 28. August 27 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 the President's economic team and senior advisers. The White House announced that the President will travel to Newport, RI, on August 29. August 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine and the upcoming NATO summit in Newport, Wales. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with members of the National Security Council to discuss the situations in Iraq and Syria and U.S. strategy to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Vice President Joe Biden and several others participated via videoconference. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett, and other senior advisers. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to the White House on September 18. The White House announced that the President will travel to Westchester County, NY, and Newport, RI, on August 29. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael P. Botticelli to be Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The President announced his intention to nominate Seth B. Carpenter to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Markets at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Gilberto de Jesús to be Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the Small Business Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Russell C. Deyo to be Under Secretary for Management at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Todd A. Fisher and Deven J. Parekh to be members of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Jennifer A. Haverkamp to be Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Colette Dodson Honorable to be a Commissioner on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Virginia Tyler Lodge and Ronald A. Walter to be members of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel H. Marti to be Intellectual Property Enforcement Coordinator in the Executive Office of the President. The President announced his intention to nominate Carlos A. Monje, Jr., to be Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Ronald A. Pearlman to be a member of the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Sarah R. Saldaña to be Assistant Secretary for Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to nominate Carlos J. Torres to be Deputy Director of the Peace Corps. The President announced his intention to nominate Sheila S. Gwaltney to be Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter M. McKinley to be Ambassador to Afghanistan. The President announced his intention to nominate Nancy Bikoff Pettit to be Ambassador to Latvia. The President announced his intention to appoint S. Dallas Dance as a member of the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Intelligence Advisory Board: James S. Crown; D. Scott Davis; Jamie Dos Santos; Julius M. Genachowski; Shirley Ann Jackson; and Neal S. Wolin. August 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to New Rochelle, NY, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable discussion. Then, he traveled to Purchase, NY. Later, he traveled to Newport, RI, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Westchester County, NY, on August 30. The White House announced that the President will travel to Milwaukee, WI, on September 1. August 30 In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to White Plains, NY, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Pocantico Hills, NY, where, at the Blue Hill at Stone Barns farm and restaurant, they attended the wedding of "Let's Move!" Executive Director and Senior Policy Adviser for Nutrition Policy Sam Kass. Later in the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the upcoming NATO summit in Newport, Wales, and the situation in Iraq. September 1 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Milwaukee, WI. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. September 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Tallinn, Estonia, arriving the following morning. September 3 In the morning, upon arrival at Tallinn Airport, the President traveled to the Swissotel Tallinn hotel. Later, at the Swissotel Tallinn, he visited with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Then, he traveled to the Kadriorg Palace, where he participated in an official arrival ceremony, guest book signing, and official photograph with President Toomas Hendrik Ilves of Estonia. Then, also at the Kadriorg Palace, he met with President Ilves. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Bank of Estonia. Then, he traveled to the Stenbock House. Later, he traveled to the Kadriorg Art Museum. Then, he traveled to the Nordea Concert Hall. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to the Tallinn Airport hangar, where he and Prime Minister Taavi Roivas of Estonia received a briefing on North Atlantic Treaty Organization security reassurance in light of the situation in Ukraine. In the evening, the President traveled to Gloucestershire, England. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Wales, where he remained overnight. September 4 In the morning, the President and Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom traveled to Mount Pleasant Primary School, where they visited with staff and students. Then, they returned to the Celtic Manor Resort, where they had a meeting. Later in the morning, at the Celtic Manor Resort, the President met with Prime Minister Cameron, President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy, and President François Hollande of France to discuss the situation in Ukraine. Secretary of State John F. Kerry also attended. In the afternoon, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, the President was greeted by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and Prime Minister Cameron and participated in an official family photograph. Then, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, he had a meeting with NATO International Security Assistance Force, Afghanistan, officials to discuss coalition progress in Afghanistan. Later, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, he met with King Abdullah II of Jordan. Secretary of State Kerry, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, and White House Coordinator for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf Region Philip H. Gordon also attended. Later in the afternoon, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, the President joined a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission. U.S. Permanent Representative to the NATO Council Douglas E. Lute also attended. In the evening, the President dropped by a reception hosted by Charles, Prince of Wales. Then, he traveled to Cardiff, Wales, where, at Cardiff Castle, he participated in an official family photograph with NATO leaders. Then, also at Cardiff Castle, he had a working dinner with NATO leaders. Later in the evening, the President returned to the Celtic Manor Resort, where he remained overnight. September 5 In the morning, at the Celtic Manor Resort, the President viewed a fly-over ceremony of North Atlantic Treaty Organization aircraft from member nations. Then, he attended a leaders meeting on the future of NATO. Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel also attended. Later, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, he had a leaders meeting on the importance of the transatlantic alliance. Later in the morning, also at the Celtic Manor Resort, the President met with President François Hollande of France. National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Deputy National Security Adviser for International Economics Caroline Atkinson, White House Senior Director for European Affairs Charles A. Kupchan, and French Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development Laurent Fabius and Minister of Defense Jean-Yves Le Drian also attended. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Wiltshire, England, arriving in the evening. In the evening, at the Stonehenge UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wiltshire, the President toured the ruins with property curator Heather Sebire. Then, he traveled to Royal Air Force Station Fairford in Gloucestershire, England. Upon arrival, he returned to Washington, DC. September 6 In the morning, in the Cabinet Room, the President recorded an interview with Chuck Todd of NBC's "Meet the Press" program. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Afghan Presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai to discuss efforts to form a national unity Government in Afghanistan. September 8 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 senior advisers. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. Later, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon of the United Nations to discuss efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the situations in Iraq and Ukraine, and the goals of the upcoming U.N. General Assembly, including the U.N. Climate Summit and the U.N. Security Council session on foreign terrorist fighters. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi of Iraq to congratulate him on the formation of a new Iraqi Government and to discuss Iraq-U.S. relations and efforts to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to discuss the situation in Iraq. Later, in the Old Family Dining Room, he and Vice President Biden hosted a dinner with former National Security Advisers Samuel R. "Sandy" Berger, Zbigniew K. Brzezinski, Thomas E. Donilon, and Stephen J. Hadley; former Central Intelligence Agency Acting Director Michael J. Morrell; Center for a New American Security Chief Executive Officer Michèle A. Flournoy; Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Director, President, and Chief Executive Officer Jane L. Harman; Council on Foreign Relations President Richard N. Haass; and Brookings Institution President Strobe Talbott to discuss U.S. strategy to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, the situation in Ukraine, and other national security issues. They were joined by Secretary of State John F. Kerry and other members of the President's national security team. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor to CSM Bennie G. Adkins, USA, and posthumously to S4 Donald P. Sloat, USA, on September 15. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India to the White House on September 29 and 30. September 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with senior members of his national security team to discuss the Nation's security posture approaching the 13th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe 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 U.S. strategy to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. The White House announced that the President will deliver an address to the Nation on September 10 to discuss U.S. strategy to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. The President announced his intention to nominate Michele Thoren Bond to be Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael G. Young to be a member of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Donna L. Brazile and Maneesh K. Goyal as members of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Dorothy M. Lowman as U.S. Commissioner of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. The President announced his intention to appoint Russell F. Smith III as U.S. Commissioner of the International Whaling Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint G.P. "Bud" Peterson and Diane L. Souvaine as members of the National Science Board for the National Science Foundation. The President announced his intention to appoint Virgil Trujillo as a member of the Board of Directors of the Valles Caldera Trust. September 10 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 had a telephone conversation with King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss efforts to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, the situations in Syria and Yemen, and Saudi Arabia-U.S. security cooperation. Then, in the Situation Room, he and Vice President Biden met with members of the National Security Council. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with newspaper and magazine journalists and columnists to discuss U.S. strategy to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, the situation in Ukraine, and other national security and foreign policy issues. The President declared a major disaster in American Samoa and ordered Federal aid to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and landslides from July 29 through August 3. The President declared a major disaster in the territory of Guam and ordered Federal aid to supplement territory and local recovery efforts in the area affected by Tropical Storm Halong from July 28 through 31. September 11 In the morning, on the South Lawn, the President and Mrs. Obama, along with Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill T. Biden, participated in a moment of silence to mark the 13th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Arlington, VA. Later, they returned to Washington, DC. In the afternoon, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, he dropped by National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice's meeting with Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al Rai of the Maronite Church and other Christian religious leaders from the Middle East. During the meeting, he discussed U.S. efforts to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, the historic role of Christian communities in the region, and the importance of protecting Christians and other religious minorities throughout the Middle East. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. Later, at the Inspired Teaching School, he and Mrs. Obama participated in a service event. The President declared a major disaster in California and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by an earthquake from August 24 through September 7. September 12 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 former President William J. Clinton. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Baltimore, MD, where he toured Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine with Fort McHenry Chief of Interpretation Vincent Vaise and Maryland Historical Society President Burton K. Kummerow. They were joined by Gov. Martin J. O'Malley and Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown of Maryland; Sens. Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin; Reps. Elijah E. Cummings, C.A. "Dutch" Ruppersberger, and John P. Sarbanes; and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake of Baltimore. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Charlotte A. Burrows to be a Commissioner of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Isobel Coleman to be Representative of the United States to the United Nations for U.N. Management and Reform, with the Rank of Ambassador, U.S. Mission to the United Nations. The President announced his intention to nominate Benjamin L. Cardin and Ronald H. Johnson to be U.S. Representatives to the 69th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. The President announced his intention to nominate Carol L. Hamilton and Leslie Berger Kiernan to be Alternate U.S. Representatives to the 69th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert M. Scher to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities. The President declared a major disaster in Hawaii and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by Tropical Storm Iselle from August 7 through 9. September 14 The White House announced that the President will travel to Atlanta, GA, on September 16. The White House announced that the President will travel to Tampa, FL, on September 16. September 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he and the Vice President met with Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Gallatin Room of the Jefferson hotel, he attended a Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee event. September 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Gen. John R. Allen, USMC (Ret.), Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition To Counter ISIL, and Deputy Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition Brett H. McGurk. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with former medical director Kent P. Brantly, Samaritan's Purse Ebola Case Management Center in Monrovia, Liberia, and his wife Amber J. Brantly to discuss the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Atlanta, GA, where, in conference room 12105 at the Arlen Specter Headquarters and Emergency Operations Center of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, he received a briefing on the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and the respiratory illness affecting States in the Midwest. Then, in conference room12101, he met with Emory University Hospital physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals who provided medical care for Ebola patients. Later, he traveled to MacDill Air Force Base, FL, arriving in the evening. In the evening, at the Welcome Center of Harbor Bay, the President participated in a reception for military spouses. Then, he traveled to the Hilton Tampa Downtown hotel in Tampa, FL, where he remained overnight. September 17 In the morning, the President traveled to MacDill Air Force Base, where, at the U.S. Central Command Joint Intelligence Operations Center, he participated in a briefing with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel, Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, USA, commander, U.S. Central Command, National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, other Central Command leaders, and representatives of the international coalition to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Then, he toured the Joint Intelligence Operations Center. In the afternoon, at General Clarence Tinker Elementary School, the President visited with first-grade students and gave away signed boxes of White House M&M's. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with his national security team to discuss the global terrorist threat and counterterrorism efforts. The President announced his intention to nominate Francine Berman and Deborah Willis to be members of the National Council on the Humanities. The President announced his intention to nominate Mario Cordero to be a Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission and, upon appointment, to be designated Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate Tho Bella Dinh-Zarr to be a member of the National Transportation Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Earl L. Gay to be Deputy Director of the Office of Personnel Management. The President announced his intention to nominate Paul A. Folmsbee to be Ambassador to Mali. The President announced his intention to nominate Mary C. Phee to be Ambassador to South Sudan. The President announced his intention to nominate Joseph Pius Pietrzyk to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation. September 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S.: Mohammad Ziauddin of Bangladesh, Eerik Marmei of Estonia, Francisco Roberto Altschul Fuentes of El Salvador, Emanuel Arturo Gonzalez Revilla Lince of Panama, Roman Macaya Hayes of Costa Rica, Gerard Araud of France, and Igor Alberto Pangrazio Vera of Paraguay. In the afternoon, at the Capital Hilton hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable. The President announced his intention to nominate Allison Beck to be Director of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Brian J. Egan to be Legal Adviser at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Eric P. Liu and Victoria A. Hughes to be members of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Dallas P. Tonsager to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Farm Credit Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Maria Echaveste to be Ambassador to Mexico. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard R. Verma to be Ambassador to India. The President announced his intention to appoint David P. Abney as a member of the President's Export Council. The President announced the nomination of Joan M. Azrack to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. The President announced the nomination of Alfred H. Bennett to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The President announced the nomination of Loretta Copeland Biggs to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. The President announced the nomination of Elizabeth K. Dillon to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. The President announced the nomination of George C. Hanks, Jr., and Jose R. Olvera, Jr., to be judges on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The President announced the nomination of Jill N. Parrish to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah. September 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the evening, the President and his daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Camp David, MD. Later, he received briefings from members of his senior staff on White House intruder Omar J. Gonzalez of Copperas Cove, TX, who was arrested by U.S. Secret Service personnel earlier in the day. September 20 The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to New York City from September 23 through 25. September 21 In the morning, the President had separate telephone conversations with Afghan Presidential candidates Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai to congratulate them on signing an agreement to form a national unity Government and discuss Afghanistan-U.S. relations. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister John P. Key of New Zealand to congratulate him on his recent election victory and discuss New Zealand-U.S. relations. September 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President visited with wounded U.S. military personnel and their families during their tour of the White House. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in a teleconference with rabbis for Rosh Hashanah. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden, met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. In the evening, at the Naval Observatory, the President attended a Hispanic Heritage Month reception hosted by Vice President Biden and Mrs. Biden. September 23 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to New York City. Upon arrival, he traveled to United Nations Headquarters. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel. Later, he traveled to the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, where he visited with employees of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations and their families. Then, he attended a Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee fundraiser at a private residence. In the evening, the President returned to the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, where he and Mrs. Obama attended a reception for the 69th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. They remained overnight at the Waldorf Astoria. September 24 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to United Nations Headquarters. Later, in the U.N. Security Council Consultations Room, he had expanded and restricted bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi of Iraq. National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice also attended. In the afternoon, at United Nations Headquarters, the President met with Sam Kahamba Kutesa, President of the 69th Session of the U.N. General Assembly. Then, also at United Nations Headquarters, he met with United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. In the evening, the President returned to the Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, where he remained overnight. September 25 In the morning, the President traveled to United Nations Headquarters. 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 President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss ways to counter the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization and commend Turkish authorities on their management of the influx of Iraqi and Syrian refugees entering Turkey. During the day, the President met with U.S. Secret Service Director Julia A. Pierson to discuss the September 19 incident in which White House intruder Omar J. Gonzalez of Copperas Cove, TX, was arrested by U.S. Secret Service personnel. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations: Jill Appell; C. Fred Bergsten; Bill Frenzel; Leo W. Gerard; Joseph T. Hansen; James P. Hoffa; Sandra Kennedy; David H. Long; Wade Randlett; Matthew Rubel; and David H. Segura. The President announced his intention to appoint Bryan Lourd, Barbara Goodman Manilow, and Bryan Traubert 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 Susan J. Helms as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The President announced his intention to appoint Liza Gilbert as a member of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. The President declared a major disaster in Michigan and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from August 11 through 13. September 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Diplomatic Room, the President recorded an interview with Steve Kroft of CBS's "60 Minutes" program for later broadcast. Later, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. September 27 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Fort Belvoir, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. September 28 The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai as President of Afghanistan in Kabul, Afghanistan, on September 29: John D. Podesta (head of delegation); James B. Cunningham; John F. Campbell; Catherine M. Russell; Daniel Feldman; Jeff Eggers; Caroline Wadhams; Larry Sampler; Thomas J. Daley; and Miroslav Kazimir. September 29 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 Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro. In the afternoon, at the Capital Hilton hotel, the President attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable event. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President and Vice President Biden had dinner with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The President announced his intention to nominate Robert A. Salerno to be a judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. September 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, on the National Mall, the President toured the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Thomas R. Frieden to receive an update on the recently diagnosed Ebola case in Dallas, TX, and discuss the isolation protocols under which the patient is being treated and ongoing efforts to trace the patient's contacts in order to mitigate the risk of additional cases. He also had a telephone conversation with U.S. Secret Service Director Julia A. Pierson to discuss the September 16 incident in which an armed private security guard with a criminal record boarded an elevator carrying the President during his visit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, GA. Later in the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with the National Security Council to discuss the U.S. strategy to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on October 1 and Evanston, IL, on October 2. The White House announced that the President will travel to Princeton, IN, on October 3. The President declared a major disaster in Kentucky and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from August 18 through 23. October 1 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 Secretary of State John F. Kerry. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, at Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab restaurant, he had dinner with Newton, MA, resident Hannah Banks and her husband Howard and New York City resident Andrea Abrahams and her guest, winners of a "Dinner With President Obama" contest sponsored by the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with outgoing U.S. Secret Service Director Julia A. Pierson to discuss her earlier resignation from the agency and express his appreciation for her tenure of service. In the evening, the President traveled to Gary, IN. Upon arrival, he traveled to Chicago, IL. Later, he traveled to his Hyde Park-Kenwood residence, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with U.S. Secret Service Acting Director Joseph P. Clancy to thank him for accepting the position following the resignation of Director Julia A. Pierson The President announced his intention to appoint Dean C. Garfield, Harold McGraw III, and Bob Stallman as members of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. The President announced his intention to appoint Bradford J. White as a member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The President announced his intention to appoint Lisa Borin Ogden as a member of the Board of Governors of the United Service Organizations, Inc. The President announced his intention to appoint Sakurako Fisher as a General Trustee on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Maura Corby Sullivan as Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to appoint Naomi L. Nelson as a member of the National Historical Publications and Records Commission. The President announced the appointment of Brad D. Smith as a member of the President's Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. The President announced the appointment of Michèle A. Flournoy and Kevin Nealer as members of the President's Intelligence Advisory Board. October 2 In the morning, at a private resident, the President attended a campaign fundraiser for Gov. Patrick J. Quinn III of Illinois. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Evanston, IL. Later, he traveled to Gary, IN. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Mayor Michael S. Rawlings of Dallas, TX, to discuss the local, State, and Federal response to the reported case of Ebola in Dallas and ensure that city authorities had sufficient assistance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to treat the patient safely and control any possible further spread of the disease. October 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Princeton, IN. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Gen. David M. Rodriguez, USA, commander, U.S. Africa Command, to get an update on the U.S. military's response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Upon arrival in Princeton, he traveled to Millennium Steel Service, where he and Secretary of Commerce Penny S. Pritzker toured the facility with Millennium Steel Chief Executive Officer Henry Jackson and Operations Manager Luis Garza, Jr., and visited with employees. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City and Greenwich, CT, on October 7. October 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with the heads of Federal financial regulatory agencies and members of his economic team to discuss the national economy and ongoing implementation of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a bill-signing ceremony for H.R. 4994, the Improving Medicare Post-Acute Care Transformation Act of 2014. The President declared a major disaster in New Mexico and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding from July 27 through August 5. October 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he met with U.S. Secret Service Acting Director Joseph P. Clancy. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in an interview with Jeffrey Toobin of the New Yorker magazine. In the afternoon, the President traveled to New York City, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, he traveled to Greenwich, CT. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Los Angeles, CA, area on October 9. October 8 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 President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon of Colombia to discuss the Colombian Government's efforts to resolve its conflict with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) insurgent group, Colombia's contribution of troops to United Nations peacekeeping efforts, and Colombia-U.S. security cooperation. In the afternoon, the President participated in a teleconference call with State and local officials to discuss domestic preparedness and containment efforts in response to the West African Ebola epidemic. Later, at the Pentagon, he met with members of the National Security Council to discuss U.S. military operations against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Dimas, CA, and San Francisco, CA, on October 10. The President announced his intention to nominate Walter A. Barrows to be a member of the Railroad Retirement Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Sim Farar and William J. Hybl to be members of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy. The President announced his intention to nominate David S. Shapira to be a Governor of the Board of Governors of the U.S. Postal Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael P. O'Rielly to be a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Denise Moreno Ducheny as a member of the Board of Directors of the Border Environment Cooperation Commission and the North American Development Bank. The President announced his intention to appoint Kyle K. Hipsley as U.S. Commissioner of the International Boundary Commission, United States and Canada. The President announced his intention to appoint Robert G. Stanton as a member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The President announced his intention to appoint Jody L. Williams as a Commissioner of the Bear River Commission. October 9 In the morning, the President traveled to Los Angeles, CA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Santa Monica, CA, where he toured the Cross Campus technology industry office facility and met with founders and employees of Noozcard Inc., Enervee Corp., and Third Place, Inc. Later, he traveled to Los Angeles, CA, where he visited the campaign headquarters of Democratic congressional candidate Ted W. Lieu. During the visit, he met with State Sen. Lieu, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Steve Israel, and campaign volunteers and staffers. In the evening, the President traveled to the W Los Angeles-Westwood Hotel, where he remained overnight. The President made additional disaster assistance available to the Santa Clara Pueblo by authorizing an increase in Federal funding for public assistance projects undertaken as a result of severe storms and flooding from September 13 through 16, 2013. The President declared a major disaster in Montana and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding from August 21 through 25. October 10 In the morning, in Los Angeles, CA, the President participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser at a private residence. In the afternoon, the President traveled to San Dimas, CA. Later, he traveled to San Francisco, CA. The President announced his intention to appoint Elizabeth C. Wesman as Chair of Presidential Emergency Board No. 247. The President announced his intention to appoint Barbara Deinhardt and David P. Twomey as members of Presidential Emergency Board No. 247. October 11 In the morning, at a private residence, the President participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. October 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President was briefed by Assistant to the President Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco on the diagnosis of the first Ebola case contracted in the U.S. at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas in Dallas, TX. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell to receive an update on the coordinated response to the Ebola cases in Dallas and discuss the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's investigation into infection control protocols, cooperation with State and local authorities, and implementation of Ebola containment protocols nationwide. The White House announced that the President will travel to Bridgeport, CT, on October 15. October 13 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss efforts to contain the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon of the United Nations to discuss efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Later, also in the Oval Office, the President met with National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco, Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Thomas R. Frieden, who participated by phone, to receive an update on the response to the first case of Ebola contracted in the U.S. at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas in Dallas, TX, efforts to ensure the readiness of the Nation's health infrastructure to contain the virus, and the investigation into infection control protocols. The White House announced that the President will travel to Union, NJ, on October 15. The White House announced that the President will travel to Providence, RI, on October 16. October 14 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Joint Base Andrews, MD. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with local high school students to discuss their education and career goals. Then, on the White House basketball court, they played an impromptu game of H-O-R-S-E. Later, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. In the evening, the President traveled to McLean, VA, where, at a private residence, he participated in a Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee roundtable fundraiser. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Long Island, NY, on October 16. The White House announced the cancellation of the President's planned travel to Bridgeport, CT, on October 15. The White House announced the cancellation of the President's planned travel to Union, NJ, on October 15. October 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Situation Room, he participated in a video conference with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, President François Hollande of France, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the international response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, the international campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, and Russia's obligations under the Minsk agreements to deescalate the situation in Ukraine. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to discuss international obligations of the Minsk agreements to achieve a political resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to discuss the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiation process, and the security situation in Northeast Asia. The White House announced the cancellation of the President's planned travel to Providence, RI, on October 16. The White House announced the cancellation of the President's planned travel to Long Island, NY, on October 16. October 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Later, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stefan Löfven of Sweden to discuss the international response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, the threat posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, and efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. In the afternoon, the President had separate telephone conversations with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid, Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner, and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to discuss efforts to contain the Ebola virus. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to discuss the international response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and the campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Later, also in the Oval Office, he had a teleconference call with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention employees to discuss the coordinated response to the second case of Ebola contracted in the U.S. at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas in Dallas, TX. Also in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. John R. Kasich of Ohio to discuss precautions taken after a second Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas nurse, who had made a round trip between Dallas and Cleveland, was then diagnosed in Dallas with Ebola. In the evening, in the Oval Office, President Obama had a telephone conversation with Gov. J. Richard Perry of Texas to discuss the availability of resources in the event of additional Ebola diagnoses among Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas employees. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on October 19. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Joko "Jokowi" Widodo as President of Indonesia in Jakarta, Indonesia, on October 20: John F. Kerry (head of delegation); Robert O. Blake, Jr.; Daniel R. Russel; Carolyn Hessler-Radelet; Scot Marciel; and Mohamed Abdel-Kader. The President announced his intention to nominate Michelle K. Lee to be Under Secretary for Intellectual Property at the Department of Commerce and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The President announced his intention to nominate Dava J. Newman to be Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The President announced his intention to appoint Victoria A. Espinel as a member of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. The President announced his intention to appoint Deborah A. Phillips and Judith D. Singer as members of the Board of Directors of the National Board for Education Sciences. The President announced his intention to appoint Nancy Rodriguez to be Director of the National Institute of Justice at the Department of Justice. October 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, the President had a telephone conversation with President Abd Rabuh Mansur Hadi of Yemen to discuss democracy efforts in Yemen and joint efforts to suppress the Al Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula terrorist organization. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Ronald A. Klain to discuss his appointment as Ebola Response Coordinator. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with national security and public health advisers to receive an update on the tracing of individuals who had contact with Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas nurses Nina Pham and Amber Vinson, who were treated for Ebola, and the availability of resources at State and local levels to prevent further spreading of the virus. Then, in the Situation Room, they met with the National Security Council to discuss the international campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. October 18 In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with his national security and public health teams to receive an update on domestic Ebola response and containment efforts, including Federal coordination with State and local authorities to address the Ebola cases in Dallas, TX. Also in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss the situation in Syria, international efforts to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, and joint Turkey-U.S. efforts to foster peace and stability in Afghanistan. October 19 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Upper Marlboro, MD. In the evening, the President traveled to Chicago, IL. Later, he traveled to his Hyde Park-Kenwood residence, where he remained overnight. October 20 In the morning, at theMartin Luther King Community Service Center, the President cast his early-vote ballot, greeted other voters, and chatted with volunteer campaign workers. Then, he stopped by the campaign field office of Gov. Patrick J. Quinn III of Illinois, where he visited with campaign volunteers and staffers. In the afternoon, the President returned to his Hyde Park-Kenwood residence. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the Capital Hilton hotel on December 3. October 21 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 Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Special Assistant and Senior Director for Development and Democracy Gayle Smith and Deputy National Security Adviser Antony J. Blinken. October 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to discuss the situation in Iraq, the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, and the upcoming G-20 Summit in Brisbane, Australia. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada to express his condolences for the deaths and injuries caused by the recent attacks on Canadian Armed Forces and Government buildings in Quebec and Ottawa and offered U.S. assistance and support in countering further attacks. Prior to the call, he received an update on the shooting at the Parliament building in Ottawa from Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco. Also during the day, the President had a telephone conversation with health care workers at Texas Presbyterian Hospital Dallas in Dallas, TX, to thank them for their courage and perseverance in dealing with the first known cases of Ebola contracted in the U.S. October 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with members of the President's Council of Advisers on Science and Technology (PCAST). Later, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. The President announced his intention to nominate Jay N. Lerner to be Inspector General of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Azita Raji to be Ambassador to Sweden. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael Feuer to be a member of the National Board for Education Sciences. The President announced his intention to nominate Herbert Block, Richard H. Weisberg, and Gary P. Zola to be members of the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad. October 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Nina Pham, a nurse at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas in Dallas, TX, who was infected with the Ebola virus while providing care to Thomas E. Duncan, but was successfully treated and cleared of the disease. Then, at the State Department, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with the National Security Council to discuss the status of the U.S. strategy to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. Also at the State Department, he participated in a video teleconference with staff at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and Consulates General in both Basra and Erbil to thank them for their hard work and dedication given the security situation in Iraq and commend their important work in implementing the strategy to counter ISIL. In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to discuss the reported Ebola case in New York City. The White House announced that the President will travel to Milwaukee, WI, on October 28. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the opening ceremony of the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw, Poland, on October 28: Carolyn B. Maloney (head of delegation); Stephen D. Mull; Ira N. Forman; Lesley L. Weiss; Sharon A. Kershbaum; and Shoshana M. Lew. October 25 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Fort Belvoir, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. October 26 In the afternoon, the President had a meeting with Cabinet members and senior advisers to discuss Ebola preparedness and containment efforts, including measures to protect health care workers. October 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Steering Committee, a working group of the President's Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. Later, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he met with Cabinet members and senior advisers to discuss lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy and general Federal preparedness efforts and climate resilience measures. Then, in the Oval Office, he visited with Alyce Dixon, the oldest living African American female veteran of World War II. The White House announced that the President will travel to Portland, ME, on October 30. The White House announced that the President will travel to Providence, RI, on October 30. The White House announced that the President will award the Medal of Honor posthumously to 1st Lt. Alonzo H. Cushing, USA, in recognition of his valor during the Civil War on November 6. October 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil to congratulate her on her recent reelection and discuss Brazil-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he had a teleconference with members of the U.S. Agency for International Development's Disaster Assistance Response Team coordinating the U.S. response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Then, in the Cross Hall, he greeted the 2014 finalists of the Broadcom Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering Rising Stars (MASTERS) competition. Later, he traveled to Milwaukee, WI. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to the Umami Moto restaurant, where he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. In the evening, the President was briefed by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Anita Decker Breckenridge on the launch failure and explosion of Orbital Sciences Corp.'s Antares rocket in Wallops, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. October 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President met with U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Samantha Power. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Angela Faletra Menino, wife of former Mayor Thomas M. Menino of Boston, MA, to express his condolences for her husband's rapidly deteriorating health. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Detroit, MI, area on November 1. The White House announced that the President will travel to Philadelphia, PA, on November 2. The President declared a major disaster in New Mexico and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding from September 15 through 26. October 30 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 Secretary of State John F. Kerry. Later, he traveled to Portland, ME. Upon arrival, he traveled to Cape Elizabeth, ME, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to Portland, ME. Later, he traveled to Warwick, RI. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Omni Providence Hotel in Providence, RI, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Thein Sein of Burma to discuss his upcoming travel to Burma for the East Asia Summit and U.S.-ASEAN Summit, the status of Burma's ongoing political and economic reforms, the humanitarian situation in Rakhine State, and Burma-U.S. relations. He also had a telephone conversation with Member of Parliament and National League for Democracy Leader Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma to discuss the status of Burma's ongoing democracy efforts, the upcoming 2015 elections, and Burma-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will travel to Bridgeport, CT, on November 2. October 31 In the morning, the President traveled to Rhode Island College, where he participated in a roundtable discussion on the national economy and women in the workplace with working mothers, small-business owners, and college students and faculty. In the afternoon, the President stopped at Gregg's Restaurant and Pub, where he and Rhode Island gubernatorial candidate Gina M. Raimondo greeted owner Bob Bacon, visited with staff and patrons, and purchased lunch and dessert. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. Later, on the South Portico, he and Mrs. Obama greeted local schoolchildren and children of U.S. servicemembers trick-or-treating at the White House for Halloween. The President announced his intention to nominate David J. Berteau to be Assistant Secretary for Logistics and Materiel Readiness at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Leigh A. Bradley to be General Counsel at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Mona Dixon to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark Scarano to be Federal Cochairperson of the Northern Border Regional Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Jeffrey L. Bleich as a member of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Michael K. Goto as U.S. Commissioner of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. The President announced his intention to appoint Mary Lou Leary as Deputy Director for State, Local, and Tribal Affairs of the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The President announced his intention to appoint A. William Ritter as U.S. Representative of the Western Interstate Nuclear Board. The President announced his intention to appoint William Sabol as Director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics at the Department of Justice. The President declared a major disaster in Missouri and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding on September 9 and 10. November 1 In the afternoon, the President had a teleconference call with U.S. servicemembers participating in the military mission to contain the Ebola epidemic in West Africa to thank them for their service. Later, he traveled to Detroit, MI. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Manager Bruce Bochy of Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants to congratulate him on his team's victory in the World Series. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. November 2 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Bridgeport, CT. Later, he traveled to Philadelphia, PA. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. November 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with members of his economic team and senior advisers. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Federal Reserve Chair Janet L. Yellen to discuss the national economy and implementation of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Later, in the Doctor's Office, he recorded separate radio interviews with Frank Ski of WHUR in Washington, DC, Earl Stokes of WJMR in Milwaukee, WI, Konan of WERQ in Baltimore, MD, U.B. Rodriguez of WGCI in Chicago, IL, "No Limit" Larry Mims of WPEG in Charlotte, NC, Mildred Gaddis of WCHB in Detroit, MI, Artie Goins and Dwayne "Fly Ty" Wade of WBAV in Charlotte, NC, Mike Chandler of WFMI in Elizabeth City, NC, Brian "B-Daht" McLaughlin of WJMH in Greensboro, NC, and Larry Young of WOLB in Baltimore, MD, all for later broadcast. The President declared a major disaster in Hawaii and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the Pu`u `O`o volcanic eruption and lava flow beginning September 4 and continuing. November 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. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde. Then, in the Doctor's Office, he recorded separate radio interviews with Reggie Brown of WKKV in Milwaukee, WI, Frankie Darcell of WMXD in Detroit, MI, and WDAS in Philadelphia, PA, Rick Party of WHQT in Miami, FL, and Colin McEnroe of WNPR in Hartford, CT, all for later broadcast. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. Then, in the Roosevelt Room, they received an update from the President's national security and public health teams on Ebola response and containment efforts. In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi; Sens. Richard J. Durbin, Michael F. Bennet, Lindsey O. Graham, James M. Inhofe, Susan M. Collins, Edward J. Markey, Jefferson B. Sessions III, Cory A. Booker, Timothy E. Scott, Alan S. Franken, and Mark L. Pryor; Rep. Deborah Wasserman Schultz; Govs. John R. Kasich, Robert J. Bentley, and William E. Haslam; and senatorial, congressional, and gubernatorial candidates M. Michael Rounds, Shelly Moore Capito, Gary C. Peters, James Lankford, Thomas B. Cotton, Seth W. Moulton, W. Asa Hutchinson, and Thomas W. Wolf to discuss the results of the midterm elections. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew and National Economic Council Director Jeffrey D. Zients. The White House announced that the President will travel to China, Burma, and Australia from November 10 through 16. November 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with members of the U.S. Public Health Service Commission Corps stationed at the Monrovia Medical Unit in Monrovia, Liberia, to commend their efforts to treat health care workers infected with Ebola and thank them for their service. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald and Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Sloan D. Gibson to discuss ongoing efforts to improve health care for veterans and strengthen accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President dropped by a meeting between White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett and civil rights leaders. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner and Senate Minority Leader A. Mitchell McConnell; Sens. Mark R. Warner, Jeanne C. Shaheen, and Mary L. Landrieu; Rep. Steny H. Hoyer; Gov. Dannel P. Malloy of Connecticut, Gov. John W. Hickenlooper of Colorado, and Gov. Patrick J. Quinn III of Illinois; and senatorial and gubernatorial candidates Benjamin E. Sasse, Joni K. Ernst, Cory S. Gardner, Gregory W. Abbott, Charles J. Crist, Jr., Mary P. Burke, Anthony G. Brown, Paul T. Davis, and Bruce V. Rauner to discuss the results of the midterm elections. The President declared a major disaster in Arizona and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding from September 7 through 9. The President declared a major disaster in Nevada and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding from September 7 through 9. November 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 and Mrs. Obama met with the U.S. Little League champion Jackie Robinson West All-Stars of Chicago, IL, to congratulate them on reaching the Little League World Series. The President announced his intention to appoint Michael A. Strautmanis as a member of the President's Committee for People With Intellectual Disabilities. The President announced his intention to appoint Lorna M. Johnson as a member of the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Lisa M. Caputo and Elizabeth B. Castor as members of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. November 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Old Family Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid, Senate Minority Leader A. Mitchell McConnell, Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, and House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy; Sens. Charles E. Schumer, Patricia L. Murray, John R. Thune, John Cornyn III, and John A. Barrasso; and Reps. Steny H. Hoyer, Xavier Becerra, and Cathy McMorris Rodgers Later in the afternoon, in the JFK Conference Room in the Situation Room, the President participated in a teleconference call with Gov. J. Richard Perry, State Health Services Commissioner David L. Lakey, and Dallas County Judge Clay L. Jenkins of Texas, and Mayor Michael S. Rawlings of Dallas, TX, to discuss the end of the 21-day waiting period for those potentially exposed to Ebola through contact with Thomas E. Duncan, who died on October 8, or nurses Nina Pham and Amber Vinson of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, who treated Duncan. He thanked them for their leadership and praised the cooperation between Federal, State, and local officials as a national model for containing Ebola. Then, in the Oval Office, he recorded an interview with Bob Schieffer of CBS's "Face the Nation" program for later broadcast. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Jeremiah W. "Jay" Nixon of Missouri to discuss the situation in Ferguson, MO. During the day, the President received an update from Department of Justice officials on the situation in Ferguson. The President announced his intention to nominate Antony J. Blinken to be Deputy Secretary of State. The President announced his intention to nominate Adewale Adeyemo to be Assistant Secretary for International Markets and Development at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate David A. Jones to be a member of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Michael D. Kennedy to be a member of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, and upon appointment, to designate him as Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate Marisa Lago 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 Nicholas J. Rasmussen to be Director of the National Counterterrorism Center in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. November 9 Early in the morning, the President traveled to Beijing, China, arriving the following morning. November 10 In the morning, upon arrival in Beijing, China, the President traveled to the Westin Beijing Chaoyang hotel. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, where he met with Embassy personnel and their families. Later, he met with veterans and Active Duty servicemembers to mark Veterans Day ahead of November 11. Then, he traveled to the China National Convention Center. In the evening, the President traveled to the National Aquatics Center (Water Cube), where he was greeted by President Xi Jinping of China and his wife Peng Liyuan. Then, he participated in an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation family photograph and attended a welcome banquet. He also had a brief private conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia. Later, he returned to the Westin Beijing Chaoyang hotel, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom on November 24. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the funeral of President Michael Chilufya Sata of Zambia in Lusaka, Zambia, on November 10: Eric T. Schultz (head of delegation); and Susan Brems. November 11 In the morning, the President traveled to the outskirts of Beijing, where, at the Yanqi Lake International Conference Centre, he attended an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) arrival ceremony. Later, also at the Conference Centre, he participated in an APEC family photograph and tree-planting ceremony. He also had a telephone conversation with Craig A. Spencer, an American doctor who contracted Ebola while treating patients infected with the disease in Guinea, to commend his recovery and express support for health care workers serving on the frontlines of the epidemic in West Africa. In the afternoon, at the Yanqi Lake International Conference Centre, the President had a working lunch with APEC leaders. Then, he attended the second plenary session. In the evening, the President returned to central Beijing, where, at Zhongnanhai, he walked and talked with President Xi Jinping of China in the former imperial garden. Then, also at Zhongnanhai, in President Xi's residence, he met with President Xi and had a private dinner with him. Later, he traveled to the Westin Beijing Chaoyang hotel, where he remained overnight. During the day, at the Yanqi Lake International Conference Centre, the President had three brief private conversations with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situations in Iran, Syria, and Ukraine. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Berlin Conference on Anti-Semitism 10th Anniversary Commemoration in Berlin, Germany, on November 13: Samantha Power (head of delegation); John B. Emerson; Daniel Baer; Melissa Rogers; Ira N. Forman; Deborah Lipstadt; and Abraham H. Foxman. November 12 In the morning, the President traveled to the Great Hall of the People, where he participated in an official arrival ceremony. In the afternoon, in the Great Hall of the People, the President attended a state banquet. Then, also in the Great Hall of the People, he had separate meetings with Premier Li Keqiang and National People's Congress Standing Committee Chair Zhang Dejiang of China. Later, he traveled to Nay Pyi Taw, Burma, arriving in the evening. In the evening, upon arrival in Nay Pyi Taw, the President traveled to the Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw. Later, he traveled to the Myanmar International Convention Center, where, in the lobby, he participated in an East Asia Summit family photograph. Then, he attended a gala dinner. Later, he returned to the Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw, where he remained overnight. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel R. Elliott III to be a member of the Surface Transportation Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Lauren McGarity McFerran to be a member of the National Labor Relations Board. The President announced his intention to nominate John Mendez to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, and upon appointment, to designate him as Chair. The President announced his intention to nominate Antonio F. Weiss to be Under Secretary for Domestic Finance at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced the nomination of Dale A. Drozd to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. The President announced the nomination of LaShann Moutique DeArcy Hall to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. The President announced the nomination of Luis F. Restrepo to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Kara Farnandez Stoll to be a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. The President announced the nomination of Michael Greco to be U.S. marshal for the Southern District of New York. November 13 In the morning, the President traveled to the Myanmar International Convention Center, where he participated in an East Asia Summit family photograph, followed by a plenary session. In the afternoon, at the Myanmar International Convention Center, the President met with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung Vietnam. Later, he traveled to the National Democratic Institute's Parliamentary Resource Center. Then, he returned to the Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw. During the day, at the the Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw, the President greeted hotel employees and participants at a vendors' fair. In the evening, the President traveled to the Presidential Palace. Then, he returned to the Kempinski Hotel Nay Pyi Taw, where he remained overnight. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeffery M. Baran to be a Commissioner of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Elissa Slotkin to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs at the Department of Defense. November 14 In the morning, the President traveled to Rangoon, Burma, where he toured the former Secretariat Building with Thant Myint-U, chairman of the Yangon Heritage Trust and special adviser to the Myanmar Peace Center, and viewed the memorial dedicated to General Aung San and six cabinet ministers who were killed on the premises on July 19, 1947. Then, he traveled to the residence of Member of Parliament and National League for Democracy Leader Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon, where he met with Embassy personnel and their families. Then, he met with Peace Corps Director Carolyn Hessler-Radelet and Regional Director Keri Lowry. Later, he traveled to the University of Yangon. In the evening, the President traveled to the Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley in Ipswich, Australia, arriving early the next morning. The White House announced that the President will host a "ConnectED to the Future" event on November 19. November 15 In the morning, upon arrival in Ipswich, Australia, the President traveled to the Brisbane Marriott Hotel in Brisbane, Australia. Later, he traveled to Parliament House, where he participated in a meeting with Group of Twenty (G-20) leaders. In the afternoon, at Parliament House, the President attended a G-20 leaders' lunch. Later, he traveled to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, where he participated in an arrival ceremony for the 2014 G-20 summit, followed by the first plenary session. Then, he participated in an official photograph with G-20 leaders. In the evening, at the Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art, the President attended a G-20 reception, working dinner, and cultural program. Later, he returned to the Brisbane Marriott Hotel, where he remained overnight. November 16 In the morning, the President traveled to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, where he had a trilateral meeting with Prime Ministers Anthony J. Abbott of Australia and Shinzo Abe of Japan. Later, he participated in two plenary sessions for the Group of Twenty (G-20) summit. In the afternoon, the President participated in a G-20 working lunch. In the evening, the President traveled to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI, crossing the international dateline and arriving in the morning. Then, he continued to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. While en route aboard Air Force Once, he received a briefing from National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice on the killing of U.S. aid worker Abdul-Rahman Kassig by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. November 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with his senior advisers. November 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, they received an update on U.S. Ebola response and containment efforts from the President's national security and public health teams. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. November 19 In the evening, the President hosted a dinner for Democratic Members of Congress at the White House to discuss his executive action on immigration reform. During the day, the President met with Minister of the National Guard Prince Mitib bin Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations, international efforts to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, Saudi Arabia-Iraq relations, political stability in Yemen, the international response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons. The White House announced that the President will award the 2013 National Medal of Science and National Medal of Technology and Innovation on November 20. The White House announced that the President will travel to Las Vegas, NV, on November 21. The President announced his intention to nominate Matthew S. Butler to be a Commissioner of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark R. Rosekind to be Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced the appointment of Darryl J. Madden, Kent D. Savre, and Robert M. Sussman as members of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin. November 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, at We the Pizza restaurant, the President and Mrs. Obama had lunch with Standing Rock Sioux Tribe youth. November 21 In the morning, the President traveled to Las Vegas, NV, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, at Del Sol High School, the President recorded an interview with George Stephanopoulos of ABC News's "This Week" program for later broadcast. Later, he traveled to Henderson, NV, where he remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mohammad Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan to discuss Pakistan-U.S. relations, regional stabilization efforts, and counterterrorism cooperation. The White House announced that the President will hold the Thanksgiving turkey pardoning ceremony at the White House on November 26. The White House announced that the President will travel to India in January 2015. November 22 In the morning, the President traveled to North Las Vegas, NV. In the afternoon, the President returned to Henderson, NV, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on November 25. November 23 In the morning, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. November 24 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 2014 Nobel Prize laureates Eric Betzig, William E. Moerner, Shuji Nakamura, and John O'Keefe. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. November 25 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 Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. Then, also in the Oval Office, he met with Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., to discuss the situation in Ferguson, MO. Later, he traveled to Chicago, IL. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Tribal Nations Conference at the Capital Hilton hotel on December 3. The President announced his intention to appoint John P. Bilbrey as a member of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. The President announced his intention to appoint Brian Greenspun as a member of Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad. The President announced his intention to appoint Andrés W. López as a General Trustee on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Emma Sepulveda as a member of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. November 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, at the Bread for the City food pantry the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and Mrs. Obama's mother Marian Robinson participated in a service event. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico to discuss President Obama's executive actions to reform the U.S. immigration system. They also discussed joint efforts to address the root causes of migration from Central America, deter the smuggling of unaccompanied children and other migrants, enhance economic competitiveness, combat organized crime, and promote regional security. The White House announced that the President will welcome King Abdullah II of Jordan to the White House on December 5. November 27 During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with deployed U.S. servicemembers from each branch of the Armed Forces to thank them for their service and wish them a happy Thanksgiving. He also had a teleconference with U.S. servicemembers working in Liberia to contain the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. November 29 In the afternoon, at Politics and Prose Bookstore, the President and his daughters Malia and Sasha visited with patrons, purchased books, and promoted Small Business Saturday. December 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew, Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh C. Johnson, Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert O. Work, and White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Acting Director Michael P. Botticelli to discuss Federal programs and funding that provide equipment to State and local law enforcement agencies. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with young national and local civil rights leaders. Also in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Attorney General Holder met with Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey of Philadelphia, PA, and George Mason University Professor of Criminology, Law, and Society Laurie Robinson, Cochairs of a Presidential task force on strengthening relations between law enforcement and local communities. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Donald Tusk of the European Council to congratulate him on his first day in office and discuss European Union-U.S. relations, ongoing negotiations regarding the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership agreement, the situation in Ukraine, international sanctions against Russia, and the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. The White House announced that the President will deliver remarks at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD, on December 2. The White House announced that the President, Vice President Biden, and Mrs. Obama will host the College Opportunity Day of Action at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center on December 4. December 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with 12 tribal leaders from around the Nation to discuss issues of importance to Indian Country ahead of the Tribal Nations Conference. Then, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he met with wounded U.S. military personnel and their families. Later, at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, he toured the Vaccine Research Center with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell, National Institutes of Health Director Francis S. Collins, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony S. Fauci, and Biodefense Research Section Chief Nancy Sullivan. During the tour, he met with scientists conducting Ebola vaccine and treatment research. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, at the St. Regis Washington, D.C. Hotel, the President participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. December 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. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Senate Minority Leader A. Mitchell McConnell. Then, he had a telephone conversation with Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., to discuss the grand jury decision regarding the death of Eric Garner, who died during an attempted arrest by New York City police officers on July 17. Also in the Oval Office, he met with White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett, White House Counsel W. Neil Eggleston, Communications Director Jennifer Palmieri, and Press Secretary Joshua R. Earnest to discuss the grand jury decision. Later, in the Cabinet Room, he and Vice President Biden met with military leadership and combatant commanders. Also in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. In the evening, at the Blair House, the President hosted a dinner for military leadership, combatant commanders, and their spouses. Mrs. Obama, Vice President Biden, and his wife Jill T. Biden also attended. December 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Mayor Bill de Blasio of New York City to discuss the grand jury decision in the death of Eric Garner, who died during an attempted arrest by New York City police officers on July 17. The President praised Mayor de Blasio's leadership, commended New Yorkers for their peaceful and constructive response to the decision, and pledged to work with the mayor to strengthen relations between law enforcement and local communities nationwide. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Summit on Early Education on December 10. The President announced his intention to appoint Gilbert Cisneros as a member of the Advisory Committee on the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Brodi L. Fontenot as Assistant Secretary for Management at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to appoint W. Don Nelson as U.S. Representative to the Kansas-Nebraska Big Blue River Compact Administration. 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 announced his intention to appoint Daniel Rosen as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. The President announced his intention to appoint James T. Rizzuto as Federal Representative to the Arkansas River Compact Administration. The President announced his intention to appoint Edward Weissman as U.S. Commissioner of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission. December 5 During the day, in the Cabinet Room, the President recorded an interview with Jeffrey I. Johnson of BET News for later broadcast. Also during the day, in the Oval Office, he greeted King Abdullah II of Jordan and his son Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, a student at Georgetown University. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, of the United Kingdom to the White House on December 8. The White House announced that the President will travel to Nashville, TN, on December 9. December 6 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he had a fiberoptic laryngoscopy and CT scan of his throat. December 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, of the United Kingdom, to thank him for the Royal Family's hospitality during his recent visits to the United Kingdom and discuss United Kingdom-U.S. relations. Later, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with middle school students from Newark, NJ, and Brooklyn, NY, who were participating in an "Hour of Code" event to publicize the start of Computer Science Education Week. In the afternoon, in the Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University, the President recorded an interview before a live audience with Stephen T. Colbert for Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report" program for later broadcast. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Ewa Kopacz of Poland to discuss the situation in Ukraine and thank him for Poland's contributions to U.S. military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. December 9 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Nashville, TN, where, in the Global Education Center dance studio at Casa Azafrán, he recorded separate interviews with José Díaz-Balart of MSNBC's "The Rundown With José Díaz-Balart" program and Jorge Ramos of the Fusion Media Network's "AMERICA With Jorge Ramos" program for later broadcast. Then, at La Hacienda Taqueria, he purchased lunch and visited with owners Carlos and Lillian Yepez, employees, and patrons. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. During the day, the President participated in a video conference with President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah of Afghanistan to discuss the drawdown of the U.S. combat mission in Afghanistan, the transition of coalition forces to the Resolute Support mission, ongoing support and training for the Afghan National Security Forces, and U.S. and regional support for the Afghan-led peace process. He also praised their successful ministerial conferences in Belgium and the United Kingdom and the ratification of the bilateral security and NATO status of forces agreements. The White House announced that the President will host the White House Summit on Early Childhood Education in the South Court Auditorium of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Building on December 10. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the World War II Battle of the Bulge 70th Anniversary Commemoration Events in Bastogne, Belgium, on December 13: Thomas R. Nides (head of delegation); Denise Campbell Bauer; Brad R. Carson; Philip M. Breedlove; Montgomery C. Meigs; and Thomas J. Brokaw. December 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. December 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing with Director of the Central Intelligence Agency John O. Brennan. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President participated in a photo opportunity with the fall class of White House interns. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Democratic Members of Congress to facilitate passage of continuing appropriations legislation. Also during the day, in the Oval Office, he met with U.S. Ambassador to India Richard R. Verma and, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, greeted the Patt Holt Singers during a private holiday reception performance. December 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, he participated in a live telephone interview with Colin Cowherd of ESPN Radio's "The Herd" program. He also recorded separate telephone interviews with Brian Dawson of WQOK's "Afternoon Traffic Jam" program in Raleigh, NC, and Ryan Seacrest of KIIS's "On Air" program in Los Angeles, CA, both for later broadcast, to promote health care enrollment under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later, also in the Oval Office, the President met with Minister of Interior Prince Muhammad bin Nayif bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss counterterrorism efforts and regional security issues, including the threat posed by the Al Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organizations, the conflicts in Iraq and Syria, support for the new Yemeni Government, and the situation in Iran. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President greeted members of the Four Tops and the Temptations. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico to the White House on January 6, 2015. December 13 The White House announced that the President will travel to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ, on December 15. December 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. December 16 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 Joseph E. Kurtz, Archbishop of Louisville, KY, and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Situation Room, they met with the National Security Council to review potential threats to the U.S. homeland and U.S. personnel overseas during the upcoming holidays, receive an update on security preparations throughout the country, discuss efforts to monitor the potential for violent reactions overseas to the release of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence's report on the Central Intelligence Agency's former detention and interrogation programs, and examine the U.S. security posture in Pakistan following the terrorist attack at the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to congratulate him on his party's victory in the December 14 parliamentary elections and discuss Japan-U.S. relations. He also had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Anthony J. Abbott of Australia to offer his condolences for the victims of the December 15 hostage crisis at Lindt Chocolate Cafe in Sydney and reiterate U.S. readiness to provide assistance. Also, in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mohammad Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan to offer his condolences for the December 16 terrorist attack at an Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan. December 17 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President recorded an interview with David Muir of ABC News' "World News" program for later broadcast. December 18 In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with his senior advisers. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Abdelfattah Said Elsisi of Egypt to discuss Egypt-U.S. relations, regional issues, and the importance of continued joint counterterrorism efforts. He also had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi of Iraq to discuss the political and security situation in Iraq, reiterate the U.S. commitment to train and assist the Iraqi security forces in their effort to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, and commend the Prime Minister's efforts to create an inclusive Government and build a united Iraqi front to fight against ISIL. The President announced his intention to appoint Charles H. Ramsey and Laurie Robinson as Cochairs of the President's Task Force on 21st-Century Policing. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Task Force on 21st-Century Policing: Cedric L. Alexander; Jose Lopez; Tracey Meares; Brittany Packnett; Susan Rahr; Constance Rice; Sean Smoot; Bryan Stevenson; and Roberto Villasenor. December 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Honolulu, HI. Upon arrival at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, they traveled to their vacation residence in Kailua, HI. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Dilma Rousseff as President of Brazil in Brasilia, Brazil, on January 1, 2015: Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (head of delegation); Liliana Ayalde; Roberta S. Jacobson; and Ricardo Zuniga. December 20 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. During the day, the President received a briefing on the murder of New York City Police Officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael L. Ramos in Brooklyn. December 21 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with New York City Police Commissioner William J. Bratton to express condolences for the December 20 murder of New York City Police Officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael L. Ramos in Brooklyn and offer Federal assistance. Later, he traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey, in his capacity as Cochair of the President's Task Force on 21st-Century Policing, to discuss the December 20 murder of New York City Police Officers Liu and Ramos, offer Federal assistance, reiterate his respect for the service and dedication of law enforcement officers, and express his support for Commissioner Ramsey's continued public calls condemning violence. In the evening, the President traveled to Waikiki, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua. December 22 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua. The President announced his intention to nominate Sally Quillian Yates to be Deputy Attorney General. The President announced his intention to appoint Dawn Halfaker as a member of the Board of Governors of United Service Organizations, Inc. The President announced his intention to appoint Mary Minow as a member of the National Museum and Library Services Board. The President declared a major disaster in New York and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm, and flooding from November 17 through 26. December 23 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Then, he traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Kailua. Later, he and his daughter Malia traveled to the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail in southeastern Oahu. Then, they returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. During the day, the President was briefed on the hospitalization of former President George H.W. Bush. December 24 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Then, he traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, where he played golf with Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia. He and Prime Minister Najib also discussed Malaysia-U.S. relations and Malaysia's upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Kailua. In the evening, the President had separate telephone conversations with deployed U.S. servicemembers from each branch of the Armed Forces to thank them for their service and dedication. December 25 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to their vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. December 26 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Then, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Later, he, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club in Kailua. Later, he returned to his vacation residence. December 27 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Honolulu, HI, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. During the day, the President received a briefing on the crash of AirAsia Flight 8501 in the Java Sea. December 28 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro to congratulate him and his wife Erica on the birth of their son Cristian Julián Castro. December 29 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Then, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. Later, he, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Mid-Pacific Country Club in Kailua. In the evening, the President returned to his vacation residence. December 30 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Then, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Waialua, HI. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. December 31 In the morning, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, HI. Then, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua, HI. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay. Later, he returned to his vacation residence in Kailua.