Barack Obama 2015-01-01 1 Appendix A-- Digest of Other White House Announcements The following list includes the President's public schedule and other items of general interest announced by the Office of the Press Secretary and not included elsewhere in this book. January 1 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Hanauma Bay, HI. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Kailua, HI, where, at Island Snow, they purchased shave ice and greeted customers and staff. Later, they returned to their vacation residence. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Honolulu, HI. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. Also in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to extend his and the First Lady's condolences on the death of the Governor's father, former Gov. Mario M. Cuomo of New York. January 2 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 traveled to Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay. Also in the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid to wish him a full and speedy recovery from injuries sustained while exercising. In the afternoon, the President returned to his vacation residence in Kailua. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Honolulu, HI. Later, they returned to their vacation residence in Kailua. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha will return to Washington, DC, on January 3. January 3 In the morning, the President 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 his daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. Then, they stopped to visit the President's sister Maya Soetoro-Ng at her home. Later, they traveled to Kailua, where they visited with musician Eddie Vedder and his family at their home. Then, they returned to their vacation residence. In the evening, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. January 5 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 Roosevelt Room, he met with his senior advisers. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Giorgio Napolitano of Italy to thank him for his leadership and commitment to Italy-U.S. relations, commend him for his dedication to the European Union and U.S.-EU cooperation, and discuss the economic situation in Europe. He also had a telephone conversation with President Beji Caid Essebsi of Tunisia to congratulate him on his election victory under Tunisia's new Constitution, commend Tunisians for their transition to democracy, reiterate U.S. commitment to assist Tunisian efforts to strengthen national security and increase economic opportunity, and invite President Caid Essebsi to the White House. The White House announced that the President will travel to Wayne, MI, on January 7. The White House announced that the President will travel to Phoenix, AZ, on January 7. January 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President had a working lunch with President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President, Vice President Joe Biden, and his wife Jill T. Biden will travel to Knoxville, TN, and Clinton, TN, on January 9. The President announced his intention to nominate Allan R. Landon to be a Governor on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. January 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. He also received a briefing on the terrorist attack carried out by two gunmen against the Charlie Hebdo newspaper staff in Paris, France. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Wayne, MI. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to offer his condolences for the loss of life, express solidarity with the French people, and offer assistance in the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Paris. Upon arrival in Wayne, the President toured the Ford Motor Co. Michigan Assembly Plant with Executive Chairman William C. Ford, Jr., Chief Executive Officer Mark Fields, Plant Manager Phillip Calhoun, and employee Mia Dew. He also greeted plant employee and U.S. military veteran Ramone Davis, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Later, he traveled to Phoenix, AZ, arriving in the evening. In the evening, upon arrival in Phoenix, the President traveled to Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2014 National Basketball Association Champion San Antonio Spurs to the White House on January 12. The President declared a major disaster in Mississippi and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and tornadoes on December 23, 2014. January 8 In the morning, the President traveled to Nueva Villas at Beverly, a single-family housing development owned by the local nonprofit Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc., where he greeted residents. Then, he traveled to Central High School, where he met with former Rep. Gabrielle D. Giffords and her husband Mark E. Kelly to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the shooting in Tucson, AZ, in which former Rep. Giffords was wounded. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Sen. Barbara L. Boxer to discuss her decision not to seek reelection and thank her for her service. Then, also aboard Air Force One, he had a teleconference call with his national security team to receive a briefing on terror threats and an update on the ongoing investigation into the terrorist attack against the Charlie Hebdo newspaper staff in Paris, France. In the evening, at the French Embassy, the President signed a condolence book for the victims of the attack in Paris and observed a moment of silence with France's Ambassador to the U.S. Gerard Araud. The President announced his intention to nominate Patricia D. Cahill to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The President announced his intention to nominate Walter Hood and Diane H. Rodriguez to be members of the National Council on the Arts. The President announced his intention to nominate Kristen M. Kulinowski to be a member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board. The President announced his intention to nominate Kristen J. Sarri to be Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to appoint Brian E. Argrett as a member of the Community Development Advisory Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Barbara B. Franklin and Edward F. Hartfield as members of the Federal Service Impasses Panel at the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President announced his intention to appoint William H. Leary as a member of the Public Interest Declassification Board. January 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing, which included an update on the ongoing investigation into the terrorist attack against the Charlie Hebdo newspaper staff in Paris, France. Later, he traveled to Knoxville, TN, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he met with Sens. A. Lamar Alexander, Jr., and Robert P. Corker, Jr., Rep. John J. Duncan, Jr., Under Secretary of Education Theodore Mitchell, and Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Council James Kvaal. In the afternoon, the President and Vice President Joe Biden traveled to Clinton, TN, where they toured the Techmer PM, LLC, production facility with Chairman and Chief Executive Officer John R. Manuck. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President was briefed by Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa O. Monaco on the ongoing investigation into the terrorist attack in Paris. The President announced his intention to appoint David S. Cohen as Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. The President announced his intention to appoint John H. Hankinson as Federal Representative of the U.S. to the Sabine River Compact Administration. January 10 The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to the White House on January 15 and 16. January 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to discuss the status of P5-plus-1 negotiations aimed at preventing Iran's acquisition of a nuclear weapon and underscore U.S. commitment to Israel's security. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cedar Falls, IA, on January 14. January 13 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 Joe Biden had lunch. Then, he traveled to Arlington, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Urban Meyer of the Ohio State University football team to congratulate him on his team's victory in the 2014 College Football Playoff National Championship. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Juan Evo Morales Ayma as President of Bolivia in La Paz, Bolivia, on January 21: Tomasz P. Malinowski (head of delegation); Peter M. Brennan; and Alejandra Y. Castillo. January 14 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 American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organization (AFL-CIO) President Richard L. Trumka and United Auto Workers (UAW) President Dennis D. Williams. Later, he traveled to Cedar Falls, IA. Later in the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. January 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss international financial assistance for Ukraine and the situation in eastern Ukraine. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office the President signed a memorandum on modernizing Federal leave policies for childbirth, adoption, and foster care. Then, he traveled to Baltimore, MD. Later, he traveled to the Hilton Baltimore hotel, where he attended the Senate Democratic Issues Conference. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President had a working dinner with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom. January 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 Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom. In the afternoon, in the Family Theater, the President hosted a screening of the film "Selma" for members of the cast and crew. January 17 The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in Oswiecim, Poland, on January 27: Jacob J. Lew (head of delegation); Stephen D. Mull; Crystal Nix-Hines; David N. Saperstein; Charles A. Kupchan; Nicholas Dean; Aviva Sufian; Israel Arbeiter; Irene Weiss; and David Harris. January 18 The White House announced that the President will travel to Boise, ID, on January 21. January 19 In the afternoon, at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughter Malia participated in a service project to promote voluntarism on Martin Luther King, Jr., Day. White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett, Cabinet Secretary Broderick D. Johnson, and Corporation for National and Community Service Chief Executive Officer Wendy Spencer also attended. The White House announced that the President will travel to Lawrence, KS, on January 21. January 20 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 Denver, CO, resident Carolyn Reed, St. Anthony, MN, resident Rebekah Erler, Butler, MO, resident Victor L. Fugate, Jr., and Woodland Hills, CA, resident Katrice Mubiru, who had written letters to the President and will join Mrs. Obama and Jill T. Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, as guests at the State of the Union Address. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the ongoing investigations into the January 7-8 terrorist attacks in Paris, the situation in eastern Ukraine, continued international sanctions against Russia, efforts to support elections in Nigeria and counter Boko Haram terrorist organization, ongoing negotiations to prevent Iran's acquisition of a nuclear weapon, and recent developments in Israeli-Palestinian relations. January 21 In the morning, the President traveled to Boise, ID, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine and Kazakhstan-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Boise State University, where he toured the facilities of the New Product Development Lab with College of Engineering Dean Amy J. Moll. Then, he met with Naghmeh Abedini, wife of Saeed Abedini, a U.S. pastor imprisoned by the Iranian Government, and their children Jacob and Rebekka. Later, he traveled to Topeka, KS, arriving in the evening. In the evening, upon arrival in Topeka, the President traveled to the Holiday Inn in Lawrence, KS, where he remained overnight. January 22 In the morning, the President traveled to the Community Children's Center, where he toured a classroom and visited with teachers, staff, and students. Then, he traveled to the Anschutz Sports Pavilion at the University of Kansas, where he met with Bill Self, head coach of the men's basketball team, and team members. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Topeka, KS, where, prior to departure from Forbes Field Air National Guard Base, he visited with Lt. Col. Douglas Pratt, USAF, a retiring Chief Presidential Flight Support officer, and his children Brennan and Lindsay. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. Later in the afternoon, in the East Room, the President participated in separate live interviews with YouTube hosts Hank Green, GloZell Green, and Bethany Mota. During the day, the President received regular updates on the situation in Yemen and the security of U.S. Embassy and civilian staff there. The President announced his intention to nominate Stan Meiburg to be Deputy Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Stuart F. Delery to be Associate Attorney General. The President announced his intention to nominate Richard T. Julius to be a member of the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Joseph P. Riley, Jr., as a member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. The President announced his intention to appoint Tiffany Dena Loftin as a member of the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. The President announced his intention to appoint Jim W. Balsiger as a U.S. Commissioner on the International Pacific Halibut Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Gordon W. "Jeff" Fassett as the Federal Commissioner on the Red River Compact Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Mark Scarano as an Alternate Federal Cochairperson of the Northern Border Regional Commission. January 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. January 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, arriving in the evening. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to express his condolences for the death of King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud and discuss his plan to travel to Saudi Arabia on January 27. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to New Delhi, India, arriving the following morning. The White House announced that the President will travel to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 27. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Edgar Lungu as President of Zambia in Lusaka, Zambia, on January 25: Sarah Sewall (head the delegation); Eric T. Schultz; and Deborah L. Birx. January 25 In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential palace, where he participated in an official arrival ceremony with President Pranab Mukherjee of India. Then, he traveled to the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, where he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony and tree planting. Later, he traveled to the Hyderabad House, where he and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India had a working lunch. Later in the afternoon, also at the Hyderabad House, the President and Prime Minister Modi participated in a walk-and-talk and had tea. Then, also at the Hyderabad House, they had an expanded bilateral meeting. Later, he traveled to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel. In the evening, at the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel, the President and Mrs. Obama met with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Then, they traveled to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential palace, where they viewed a cultural performance. Later, they returned to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel, where they remained overnight. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to offer his condolences for the murder of Japanese citizen Haruna Yukawa by members of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization in Syria, convey his appreciation for Japan's contributions of humanitarian assistance to the Middle East region, and discuss Japan-U.S. relations. January 26 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Rajpath Saluting Base, where they viewed a parade in commemoration of India's Republic Day. Also in the morning, he received a briefing on the winter storm heading into the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. In the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel. Later, at the hotel, he met with Congress Party leaders. Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Presidential palace, where, in the Mughal Gardens, they attended a reception hosted by President Pranab Mukherjee of India. Later, they returned to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel. Later, he traveled to the Taj Palace, New Delhi hotel, where he participated in a roundtable discussion with chief executive officers of Indian and U.S. businesses and government leaders. In the evening, the President returned to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Philadelphia, PA, to attend the House Democratic Caucus Retreat on January 29. January 27 In the morning, the President traveled to the Siri Fort Auditorium, where he met with 2014 Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi, children's rights advocate and founder of Bachpan Bachao Andolan, and other social justice advocates. Later, he and Mrs. Obama returned to the ITC Maurya, New Delhi hotel, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President recorded an interview with Fareed Zakaria of CNN's "Fareed Zakaria GPS" program for later broadcast. Later, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where they were greeted at Riyadh King Khalid International Airport by King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia and other Saudi officials. Later in the afternoon, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to the Erga Palace in Wadi Hanifa, where they had dinner with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where they were greeted at Riyadh King Khalid International Airport by Crown Prince Muqrin bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud, Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad bin Nayif bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud, and Governor of Riyadh Province Turki bin Abdallah Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. Then, they traveled to Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Later in the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC, arriving the following morning. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, Russia's support for the separatists and failure to fulfill its commitment under the Minsk agreement, and the importance of continued international financial assistance for Ukraine. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to offer condolences to King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia on the death of King Abdallah bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 27: Barack Obama (head of delegation); Joseph W. Westphal: John F. Kerry; John S. McCain III; Mark R. Warner; Nancy Pelosi; Eliot L. Engel; Ami Bera; Joseph Crowley; Valerie B. Jarrett; Susan E. Rice; John D. Podesta; Anita Decker Breckenridge; Christina M. Tchen; Jennifer M. Palmieri; Benjamin J. Rhodes; Lisa O. Monaco; Joshua R. Earnest; Chase Cushman; Peter A. Selfridge; John O. Brennan; Melissa Winter; Lloyd J. Austin III; James A. Baker III; Condoleezza Rice; Brian Deese; Brent Scowcroft; Samuel R. "Sandy" Berger; Stephen J. Hadley; and Frances Fragos Townsend. The President declared a major disaster for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians and ordered Federal aid to supplement the Tribe's efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and mudslides from December 4 through 6, 2014. January 28 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras of Greece to congratulate him on his recent election victory and discuss continued economic reforms in Greece and Greece-U.S. relations. January 29 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, he traveled to Philadelphia, PA, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2014 National Hockey League Champion Los Angeles Kings and the 2014 Major League Soccer Cup Champion L.A. Galaxy to the White House on February 2. January 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with members of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Team of the Office of Science and Technology Policy. January 31 In the afternoon, at the home of Vernon E. Jordan, Jr., the President and White House Senior Adviser Valerie B. Jarrett attended the Alfalfa Club luncheon. February 1 In the afternoon, in the White House Kitchen, the President participated in a live interview with Savannah Guthrie for NBC's "Super Bowl XLIX Pre-Game Show." Then, in the Map Room, he recorded a second interview with Ms. Guthrie for NBC's "Today" program for later broadcast. February 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, at the Department of Homeland Security, he toured the Operations Center with Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh C. Johnson and Operations and Planning Director Richard M. Chávez, and greeted staff. In the afternoon, the President returned to the White House. Then, in the Private Dining Room, he and Vice President Biden had lunch. The White House announced that the President will welcome Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to the White House on February 9. February 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the evening, in the Oval Office, the President, Vice President Biden, and Secretary of State John F. Kerry met with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss the execution of Jordanian pilot Moaz al-Kasasbeh by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization. The White House announced that the President will travel to Indianapolis, IN, on February 6. The President declared a major disaster in Vermont and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm from December 9 through 12, 2014. February 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with 14 American Muslim leaders to discuss domestic, national security, and foreign policy issues. In the evening, on the State Floor, the President hosted a reception for new Members of Congress. The President announced the nomination of Eileen Maura Decker to be U.S. attorney for the Central District of California. The President announced the nomination of John W. Huber to be U.S. attorney for the District of Utah. The President announced the nomination of Waverly D. Crenshaw, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. The President announced the nomination of Lawrence J. Vilardo to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York. February 5 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Nadia Lopez, principal, and Vidal Chastanet, student, of Mott Hall Bridges Academy, and photographer Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Head Coach William S. Belichick of the National Football League's New England Patriots to congratulate him on his team's victory in Super Bowl XLIX. The President announced his intention to appoint Anthony Scott as Federal Chief Information Officer and Administrator of the Office of Electronic Government at the Office of Management and Budget. The President announced his intention to appoint Ajay Banga as a member of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. The President announced his intention to appoint Frankie M. Freeman and Ross Romero as members of the Commission on Presidential Scholars. The President announced his intention to appoint Chrysten Lambert as Federal representative of the Klamath River Compact Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Earl W. Stafford as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. February 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Indianapolis, IN. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. February 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with Chancellor Merkel. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Francisco, CA, on February 12. February 10 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Biden met with members of the Congressional Black Caucus to discuss the national economy, criminal justice reform, and U.S. participation in international trade negotiations and agreements. Later, in the Map Room, he participated in an interview with Ben Smith of BuzzFeed News. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine and express his support for the recent cease-fire and peace negotiations. He also had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, reiterate U.S. support for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity, and encourage President Putin to seize the opportunity presented by peace talks with France, Germany, and Ukraine. He also had a telephone conversation with President Xi Jinping of China to discuss China-U.S. relations. The President announced the designation of John Emerson as a member of the Presidential delegation to attend the funeral services of former President Richard von Weizsacker of Germany in Berlin, Germany, on February 11. February 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he met with private sector and foundation leaders to thank them for their support in working to contain the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and emphasize the need to improve detection and prevention efforts going forward. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Charles T. Hagel. The White House announced that the President will travel to Palm Springs, CA, on February 14. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic as President of Croatia in Zagreb, Croatia, on February 15: Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall (head of delegation); Kenneth H. Merten; Hoyt B. Yee; and Capricia Penavic Marshall. The President announced his intention to nominate Sarah E. Mendelson to be U.S. Representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, with the rank of Ambassador. The President announced his intention to appoint Peter J. Beshar as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The President announced his intention to appoint Kathryn Brinsfield as Assistant Secretary for Health Affairs and Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Homeland Security. The President announced his intention to appoint Allen Croff as a member of the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Todd McCracken as a member of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. February 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Mohammad Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan to discuss Pakistan-U.S. relations and regional stability and commend Pakistan's counterterrorism efforts and progress in improving relations with Afghanistan. In the afternoon, the President traveled to San Francisco, CA. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Fairmont San Francisco hotel, where he remained overnight. February 13 In the morning, the President traveled to Stanford, CA. In the afternoon, in the Memorial Auditorium at Stanford University, the President participated in a roundtable discussion and working lunch with business leaders, followed by a meeting with Stanford students. Later, he traveled to San Francisco, CA. In the evening, the President returned to the Fairmont San Francisco hotel, where he remained overnight. February 14 In the morning, the President traveled to the Sunnylands Estate in Rancho Mirage, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had separate telephone conversations with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany and President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to discuss the ongoing violence in eastern Ukraine, the cease-fire scheduled to begin at midnight, and the importance of implementing protocols of the Minsk agreement. In the evening, the President traveled to a private residence in the Thunderbird Heights neighborhood, where he remained overnight. February 15 In the morning, the President traveled to Rancho Mirage, CA. In the evening, the President returned to a private residence in the Thunderbird Heights neighborhood, where he remained overnight. The White House announced that the President will return to Washington, DC, on February 16. February 16 In the morning, the President traveled to the Porcupine Creek Golf Course. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt of Denmark to offer his condolences for the deaths of two Danish citizens and the injuries of several others in the February 14 terrorist attacks in Copenhagen, discuss the importance of confronting attacks on freedom of expression and acts of anti-Semitic violence, and welcome Denmark's participation in the upcoming White House Summit on Countering Violent Extremism. February 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Sergio Mattarella of Italy to congratulate him on his recent election victory and discuss Italy-U.S. relations. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell to receive an update on enrollment in health insurance exchanges under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Later, also in the Oval Office, he visited with outgoing U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Rajiv J. Shah and his family. The White House announced that the President will travel to Chicago, IL, on February 19. February 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Senate Minority Leader Harry M. Reid. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. February 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President signed a proclamation establishing the Browns Canyon National Monument. Later, he traveled to Chicago, IL, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to his Hyde Park-Kenwood residence, where he received an update from Obama Foundation board member Martin H. Nesbitt on the Obama Presidential Library site selection process. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. February 20 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, at the Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill hotel, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. During the day, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, the President and Mrs. Obama recorded a video to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the "Let's Move!" initiative. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he recorded a StoryCorps interview with Noah McQueen, a "My Brother's Keeper" initiative mentee. The White House announced that the President will welcome Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar to the White House on February 24. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia to the White House on February 27. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prince Charles of Wales and Duchess Camilla of Cornwall to the White House on March 19. February 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors to the U.S. The White House announced that the President will travel to Miami, FL, on February 25. February 24 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 State and local law enforcement officials to discuss efforts to build trust in communities and strengthen public safety. Then, also in the Oval Office, he participated in a signing ceremony for the proclamation establishing the Honouliuli National Monument. Later, in the Cabinet Room, he and Vice President Biden met with Members of Congress to discuss criminal justice reform. The President announced his intention to nominate Katherine Simonds Dhanani to be Ambassador to Somalia. The President announced his intention to nominate Amias M. Gerety to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Cono R. Namorato to be Assistant Attorney General for the Tax Division at the Department of Justice. The President announced his intention to nominate Anne E. Wall to be Deputy Under Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Department of the Treasury and, upon appointment, to designate her as Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs. The President announced his intention to appoint Laura DeBonis and Solomon B. Watson IV as members of the Public Interest Declassification Board. The President announced his intention to appoint John W. Keker as a member of the Board of Directors of the Presidio Trust. The President announced his intention to appoint Joan E. Silber as a member of the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad. February 25 In the morning, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with immigration advocacy leaders to provide an update on the administration's executive actions to reform the U.S. immigration system. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Miami, FL. Upon arrival, he traveled to Florida International University, where, in the Graham Center, he recorded a "Five Things" segment with José Díaz-Balart of MSNBC's "Rundown With José Díaz-Balart" program for later broadcast. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with C. Douglas McMillon, president and chief executive officer of Walmart, to commend him on increasing wages for Walmart's employees. February 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Dwight D. Eisenhower Executive Office Building, he met with African American faith and civil rights leaders to discuss issues facing their communities, including criminal justice, education, health care, and economic development. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President participated in separate "Live From the White House" interviews with local television anchors Kerstin Kealy of WDAY in Fargo, ND, Kris Ketz of KMBC in Kansas City, MO, Laural Porter of KGW in Portland, OR, and Eric Johnson of KOMO in Seattle, WA, to discuss the importance of exports and trade to U.S. jobs. The President announced the nomination of Mary Barzee Flores to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. The President announced the nomination of Julien X. Neals to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. February 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Map Room, the President had lunch with participants in the "My Brother's Keeper" initiative's mentorship program. In the evening, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh C. Johnson, Office of Management and Budget Director Shaun L.S. Donovan, and other senior advisers to discuss the impending deadline for funding the Department of Homeland Security. Then, he had separate telephone conversations with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Harry M. Reid to receive an update on efforts to ensure that the Department of Homeland Security does not shut down due to a lapse in funding. The White House announced that the President will welcome European Council President Donald Franciszek Tusk to the White House on March 9. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai of Afghanistan to the White House on March 24. February 28 The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Tabaré Vázquez as President of Uruguay in Montevideo, Uruguay, on March 1: Krysta Harden (head of delegation); Bradley Freden; and Michele J. Sison. March 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with Technology CEO Council members Ursula M. Burns, Michael S. Dell, D. Mark Durcan, Steven M. Mollenkopf, Virginia M. Rometty, and Joseph M. Tucci. March 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, 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, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy, and European Council President Donald Franciszek Tusk to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, Russia's support for the separatists, the need for greater cooperation with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and for strengthening its monitoring role, implementation and enforcement of the Minsk agreement, recent political reforms passed by Ukraine's Parliament, and the international commitment to financial assistance to Ukraine. They also discussed the ongoing violence in Libya and how to counter ISIL's involvement and promote a political resolution to the conflict. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with his senior advisers. The White House announced that the President will travel to Selma, AL, on March 7. The President announced his intention to nominate John Conger to be Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller). The President announced his intention to nominate Gregory T. Delawie to be Ambassador to Kosovo. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter Levine to be Deputy Chief Management Officer at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Vanessa L. Allen Sutherland to be Chairperson and member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Robert Teranishi as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Board for Education Sciences. March 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with White House Counsel W. Neil Eggleston to receive an update on the U.S. Supreme Court case Black v. Burwell. In the afternoon, the President signed H.R. 240, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Mark W. Lippert. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Enda Kenny of Ireland to the White House on March 17. March 5 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 recorded separate interviews with Thomas Joyner and Sybil Wilkes of the "Tom Joyner Morning Show" and Joseph E. Madison of the "Madison Show" for later broadcast. March 6 In the morning, the President traveled to Columbia, SC, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, upon arrival, the President traveled to West Columbia, SC, where, at the Brookland Banquet and Conference Center, he greeted patrons. Later, he traveled to Columbia. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Atlanta, GA, on March 10. March 7 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and Mrs. Obama's mother Marian Robinson traveled to Selma, AL. While en route aboard Air Force One, he signed legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to participants in "Bloody Sunday," "Turnaround Tuesday," or the final Selma-to-Montgomery Voting Rights March in March 1965. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and former President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush participated in a walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the "Bloody Sunday" civil rights march in Selma. Then, he, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha toured the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute. Later, also at the Voting Rights Museum, he recorded an interview with Bill Plante of CBS News for later broadcast. Later, he, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and Mrs. Obama's mother Marian Robinson returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. March 9 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. March 10 In the morning, the President traveled to Atlanta, GA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, in the visitors' locker room of the McCamish Pavilion at the Georgia Institute of Technology, the President met with actor and comedian Tyler Perry. Then, also in the visitors' locker room, he met with Tara Lax, a special education teacher who had written him a letter about the rewards of working with children with special needs, and Georgia Tech student Tiffany Davis, who had written him a letter about her college loans. Later, he traveled to Manuel's Tavern, where he participated in a roundtable interview on college affordability with high school and college students. Then, also at Manuel's Tavern, he participated in an interview with Shane Smith, cofounder of VICE News. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta hotel, where he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Los Angeles, CA, on March 12. The White House announced that the President will travel to Phoenix, AZ, on March 13. The President announced his intention to nominate Edward L. Ayers to be a member of the National Council of the Humanities. The President announced his intention to nominate David Hale to be Ambassador to Pakistan. The President announced his intention to nominate Kathryn K. Matthew to be Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The President announced his intention to nominate Carol Fortine Ochoa to be Inspector General of the General Services Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate Eric M. Satz to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The President announced his intention to appoint Edward D. Dunson, Jr., as a member of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Lisa Ling as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President announced his intention to appoint Jose Rodriguez 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 Eric D. Schwerin as a member of the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad. The President announced his intention to appoint Delia Haak as U.S. Commissioner of the Arkansas-Oklahoma Arkansas River Compact Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint Joel West Williams as Alternate U.S. Commissioner of the Arkansas-Oklahoma Arkansas River Compact Commission. March 11 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 joined a teleconference convened by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan with college newspaper editors to discuss the Student Aid Bill of Rights. Later, in the Grand Foyer, he met with 2015 Intel Science Talent Search student finalists. The White House announced that the President will host a student film festival on March 20 to showcase ideas on the theme, "The Impact of Giving Back." March 12 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. Then, in the Situation Room, he had a video conference with President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai and Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah of Afghanistan to discuss the progress toward forming a national unity government, strengthening Afghan-U.S. relations, and improving security in Afghanistan. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Los Angeles, CA. Upon arrival, he traveled to Hollywood, CA, where, at ABC Studios, he recorded an interview with Jimmy Kimmel of ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live" program. In the evening, the President traveled to Santa Monica, CA, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, he traveled to the InterContinental Los Angeles Century City hotel, where he remained overnight. The President announced his intention to nominate Ian C. Kelly to be Ambassador to the Republic of Georgia. The President announced his intention to nominate Patricia M. Loui-Schmicker to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. The President announced his intention to appoint Brandon McBride as Administrator of the Rural Utilities Service at the Department of Agriculture. The President announced his intention to appoint Loren Kieve and Princess Daazhraii Lucaj as members of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development. The President declared a major disaster in Maine and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm, and flooding from January 26 through 28. March 13 In the morning, the President traveled to Phoenix, AZ, where, at the Carl T. Hayden Veterans Affairs Medical Center, he participated in a roundtable discussion with Veterans Health Administration employees, veteran advocates and patients, and Members of Congress on the issues facing the Department of Veterans Affairs. In the afternoon, at the Carl T. Hayden Veterans Affairs Medical Center, the President met with Carl and Marsha Mueller, parents, and Eric Mueller, brother, of U.S. aid worker Kayla J. Mueller, who was killed by members of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization in Syria on February 6 . Then, he traveled to Gilbert, AZ. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. March 14 In the evening, in the grand ballroom of the Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel, the President made remarks at the annual Gridiron Club dinner. March 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 had a telephone conversation with Sen. Orrin G. Hatch to discuss legislation granting the President trade promotion authority. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Boys and Girls Clubs of America President and Chief Executive Officer James L. Clark and organization members. The White House announced that the President will travel to Cleveland, OH, on March 18. March 17 In the afternoon, in the Rayburn Room of the U.S. Capitol, the President, Vice President Joe Biden, and Prime Minister Enda Kenny of Ireland attended the annual Friends of Ireland St. Patrick's Day luncheon. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to the White House on April 17. The White House announced that the President will host the 2015 White House Science Fair on March 23. March 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the situation in Ukraine and economic reforms in Greece. Then, he traveled to Cleveland, OH, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, at Cleveland State University, the President toured a Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network (MAGNET) innovation center with Vice President for Client Services and Marketing Ethan Karp and met with officials and employees of participating companies. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The White House announced that the President will travel to Jamaica and Panama from April 8 through 11. The President announced his intention to nominate Douglas J. Kramer to be Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration. The President announced his intention to nominate David J. Shulkin to be Under Secretary for Health at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate LaVerne Horton Council to be Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Juan M. Garcia III to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate Andrew J. Read to be a member of the Marine Mammal Commission, and upon appointment, to designate him as Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate Stephen P. Welby to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the National Commission on the Future of the Army: Larry R. Ellis; Kathleen H. Hicks; Thomas R. Lamont; and Jack C. Stultz. The President announced his intention to appoint Chad Dickerson, Gary Hirshberg, and Dennis D. Williams as members of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. March 19 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 signed an Executive order titled "Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade." Later, at the Department of Energy, he toured a rooftop solar panel installation with Deputy Secretary of Energy Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Federal Environmental Executive Kate E. Brandt, and Energy Department Energy Manager Eric R. Haukdal. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Charles, Prince of Wales, and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, of the United Kingdom. Vice President Biden also attended. Later, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to congratulate him on his party's success in the recent parliamentary elections and discuss Israel-U.S. relations, the Arab-Israeli peace process, and ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Beji Caid Essebsi of Tunisia to offer his condolences for the deaths and injuries caused by the March 18 terrorist attack at the National Bardo Museum in Tunis and to discuss Tunisia-U.S. counterterrorism and security cooperation. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Hage Geingob as President of Namibia and the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Namibia's independence in Windhoek, Namibia, on March 21: Heather A. Higginbottom (head of delegation); Thomas F. Daughton; Karen R. Bass; Linda Thomas-Greenfield; and Deborah L. Birx. March 20 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 President François Hollande of France to discuss ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of nuclear weapons and the situation in Ukraine. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President participated in an interview with Sam Stein of the Huffington Post. Later, he attended a farewell party for White House Communications Director Jennifer M. Palmieri in her office. March 21 In the morning, the President traveled to College Park, MD, where, at the XFINITY Center, he attended a women's basketball game between Princeton University and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with his brother-in-law Craig M. Robinson and other members of the Robinson family. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. March 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, on the State Floor, he viewed projects on exhibit for the White House Science Fair and visited with student participants. In the afternoon, the President met with former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore to express his condolences on the death of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and discuss Singapore-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will travel to Birmingham, AL, on March 26. The White House announced that the annual White House Easter Egg Roll will take place on April 6. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi of Iraq on April 14. The White House announced that the President will welcome Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to the White House on April 28. March 24 In the morning, in the Cabinet Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an expanded bilateral meeting with President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai of Afghanistan. Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah and Minister of Foreign Affairs Salahuddin Rabbani of Afghanistan and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice also attended. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden had a restricted bilateral meeting with President Ghani. In the afternoon, in the Old Family Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with President Ghani. Later, in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. During the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany and Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy Brey of Spain to extend his condolences for the loss of life in the crash of Germanwings Flight 4U9525 in the French Alps and offer U.S. assistance in the crash investigation. The President announced his intention to nominate Kathleen A. Doherty to be Ambassador to Cyprus. The President announced his intention to nominate Hans G. Klemm to be Ambassador to Romania. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeffrey M. Prieto to be General Counsel at the Department of Agriculture. The President announced his intention to nominate Lucy Tamlyn to be Ambassador to Benin. The President announced his intention to appoint Wanda M. Austin as a member of the President's Council of Advisers on Science and Technology. The President announced his intention to appoint Thomas O. Melius as a Commissioner of the U.S. Section of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. March 25 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. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with members of the Boy Scouts of America. The White House announced that the President will travel to Palm City, FL, on March 28. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will welcome His Holiness Pope Francis to the White House on September 23. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the state funeral of former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore in Singapore on March 29: William J. Clinton (head of delegation); Kirk W.B. Wagar; Henry A. Kissinger; Steven Green; and Thomas E. Donilon. The President declared a major disaster in New Hampshire and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by the severe winter storm and snowstorm from January 26 through 28. March 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey to discuss ongoing cooperation in combating the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, common efforts to bring security and stability to Iraq and Syria, Turkey's humanitarian support of nearly 2 million refugees from Iraq and Syria, the situations in Yemen and Ukraine, and international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of a nuclear weapon. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Birmingham, AL. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the ongoing international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran's development of a nuclear weapon. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and Vice President Joe Biden will travel to Boston, MA, on March 30. The President announced his intention to nominate Franklin R. Parker to be Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. The President announced his intention to nominate Atul Keshap to be Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives. The President announced his intention to nominate Julieta Valls Noyes to be Ambassador to Croatia. The President announced his intention to nominate Alaina B. Teplitz to be Ambassador to Nepal. The President announced the nomination of John M. Vazquez to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The President announced the nomination of Paula Xinis to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. March 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss the situation in Yemen and Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations. March 28 In the morning, the President traveled to Fort Pierce, FL. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Floridian National Golf Club in Palm City, FL, arriving in the afternoon. He remained there overnight in a guest cottage. March 29 In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. March 30 In the morning, the President and Mrs. Obama traveled to Boston, MA. Upon arrival, they traveled to the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. Also in the morning, he was briefed on the shooting at the National Security Agency in Fort Meade, MD. In the afternoon, in rotating exhibit room 126 of the Kennedy Institute, the President, Mrs. Obama, and Vice President Joe Biden met with members of the Kennedy family. Then, the President and Mrs. Obama viewed a replica of former Sen. Kennedy's office with his widow Victoria Reggie Kennedy, and the President greeted students in a replica of the Senate Chamber. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Cambridge, MA, where, at the Area Four restaurant in Kendall Square, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Then, he and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Louisville, KY, on April 2. The White House announced that the President will travel to Kenya in July. March 31 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, also in the Oval Office, he had a telephone conversation with President Abdel fattah Said Elsisi of Egypt to discuss U.S. military assistance, the situations in Libya and Yemen, and U.S. support for human rights in Egypt. He also received an update on the U.S. negotiating team's progress in Lausanne, Switzerland, as part of an international diplomatic effort to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President had a telephone conversation with President Joseph Kabila of Rwanda to discuss democratic elections in 2016, continued efforts to defeat the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda insurgent group, and pending adoptions by U.S. families. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. In the evening, in the Situation Room, the President, Vice President Biden, and members of the President's national security team participated in a video conference with Secretary of State John F. Kerry, Secretary of Energy Ernest J. Moniz, and the U.S. negotiating team in Lausanne, Switzerland, to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. The President declared a major disaster in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from March 3 through 6. April 1 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 senior advisers to discuss college affordability. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. During the day, the President signed H.R. 1527, the Slain Officer Family Support Act of 2015. He also met with White House Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough and Director of Communications Jennifer R. Psaki. Also during the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with President Goodluck Jonathan and President-elect Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria to commend them for their leadership during the recent Presidential election and pledge continued U.S. support for efforts to defeat the Boko Haram terrorist organization. The White House announced that the President will travel to Hill Air Force Base, UT, on April 2. April 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Louisville, KY. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to reaffirm U.S. commitment to Israel's security and discuss diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Upon arrival in Louisville, he traveled to the Indatus ICIM Corp., where he toured the facilities with President Philip Hawkins and greeted employees. Also in the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. During the day, in the Oval Office, the President met with Deputy National Security Adviser for Strategic Communications Benjamin J. Rhodes to prepare for his remarks on international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. Also during the day, the President had separate telephone conversations with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom, President François Hollande of France, and Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to thank them for their cooperation and support of the diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. He also had a telephone conversation with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss the diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and reaffirm U.S. commitment to the security of its allies in the Persian Gulf region. In the evening, the President traveled to Salt Lake City, UT. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel. While en route in the Presidential limousine, he met with Gov. Gary R. Herbert of Utah. Later, in Room Wildcat, he met with Dieter F. Uchtdorf and Henry B. Eyring, presidents of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and other church representatives to discuss immigration reform and the church's longstanding commitment to public service and relief work. He remained at the hotel overnight. The President declared a major disaster in Tennessee and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm and flooding from February 15 through 22. April 3 In the morning, the President traveled to Hill Air Force Base, UT, where he participated in a roundtable discussion on clean energy and toured a solar panel array with Ronald E. Jolly, Sr., deputy commander of maintenance, Ogden Air Logistics Complex. Later, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had a telephone conversation with President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya to offer his and Mrs. Obama's condolences for the loss of life caused by the April 2 terrorist attack at Garissa University College in Garissa, Kenya. Also aboard Air Force One, he had separate telephone conversations with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, Amir Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah of Kuwait, Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and reaffirm U.S. commitment to the security of its allies in the Persian Gulf region. In the evening, in the Old Family Dining Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a Seder to mark the beginning of Passover. The White House announced that the President will welcome King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands to the White House on June 1. The President declared a major disaster in Rhode Island and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm and snowstorm from January 26 through 28. April 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President participated in an interview with Thomas L. Friedman of the New York Times for later broadcast online. April 5 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha traveled to Alexandria, VA, where, at the Alfred Street Baptist Church, they attended an Easter Sunday service. In the afternoon, the President, Mrs. Obama, and their daughters Malia and Sasha returned to Washington, DC. April 6 In the morning, on the South Lawn, the President and Mrs. Obama participated in the White House Easter Egg Roll, and the President read "Where the Wild Things Are" to children attending the event. Then, on the White House basketball court, he played basketball with youths and players from the National Basketball Association's Washington Wizards. In the afternoon, the President recorded an interview with Steve Inskeep of NPR's "Morning Edition" program for later broadcast. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of Oman to discuss the framework of a Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) regarding Iran's nuclear program and reaffirm the U.S. commitment to addressing Iran's destabilizing activities in the Persian Gulf region. April 7 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Later, at the Howard University College of Medicine, he recorded an interview with Chief Medical Correspondent Sanjay Gupta for CNN's "New Day" program for later broadcast. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Michael W. Krzyzewski of the Duke University men's basketball team to congratulate him on his team's victory in the NCAA men's basketball championship. The President announced his intention to nominate Gabriel Camarillo to be Assistant Secretary for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at the Department of the Air Force. The President announced his intention to nominate Joyce L. Connery to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board, and upon appointment, to designate her as Chair. The President announced his intention to nominate Bruce Hamilton to be a member of the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. The President announced his intention to nominate William A. Heidt to be Ambassador to Cambodia. The President announced his intention to nominate David M. Robinson to be Assistant Secretary for Conflict and Stabilization Operations and Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization at the Department of State. The President announced his intention to appoint Kevin Griffis as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Smart Cities-Smart Growth Business Development Presidential Trade Mission in Beijing, China: Ernest J. Moniz (head of delegation); Penny S. Pritzker (head of delegation); and Max S. Baucus. April 8 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of State John F. Kerry. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President received an update from his international health and national security teams on efforts to prevent new Ebola cases in West Africa and end the epidemic in Sierra Leone and Guinea. He also had a telephone conversation with President Raúl Castro Ruz of Cuba to discuss Cuba-U.S relations. Later, he traveled to Kingston, Jamaica. Upon arrival, he traveled to the Jamaica Pegasus hotel. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Geno Auriemma of the University of Connecticut women's basketball team to congratulate him on his team's victory in the NCAA women's basketball championship. In the evening, at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, the President visited with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Later, he traveled to the Bob Marley Museum, where he toured the house and museum exhibits with guide Natasha Clarke. Then, he returned to the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, where he remained overnight. The President declared a major disaster in Connecticut and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm and snowstorm from January 26 through 28. April 9 In the morning, the President traveled to Jamaica House, the official residence of the Prime Minister of Jamaica, where, in the lobby, he signed the guest book. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Mona, Jamaica, where, at the Regional Headquarters Building of the University of the West Indies, Mona-Western Jamaica Campus, he participated in a family photograph with leaders of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM). Then, he returned to Kingston, where, at the National Heroes' Park War Memorial, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony. Later in the afternoon, the President traveled to Panama City, Panama, arriving in the evening. In the evening, upon arrival in Panama City, the President traveled to the Westin Playa Bonita Panama hotel, where he visited with U.S. Embassy personnel and their families. Later, he traveled to a private residence, where he remained overnight. April 10 In the morning, the President traveled to the Hotel Riu Plaza Panama. While en route, he stopped at the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, where he toured canal facilities and an operations building. Later, at the Hotel Riu Plaza Panama, he participated in a signing ceremony between the Boeing Co. and Copa Airlines. In the evening, the President traveled to the ATLAPA Convention Center, where he participated in arrival and inaugural ceremonies for the Summit of the Americas. Then, he traveled to Panamá Viejo, Panama City's historic district, where he participated in an official photograph for Summit of the Americas leaders. Then, he attended a dinner and a cultural performance with Summit of the Americas leaders. Later, he returned to a private residence, where he remained overnight. April 11 In the morning, the President traveled to the ATLAPA Convention Center, where he participated in a Summit of the Americas leaders' retreat. Then, he met with Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper of Canada. In the afternoon, at the ATLAPA Convention Center, the President participated in a family photograph with Summit of the Americas leaders. Later, he participated in the second plenary session of the Summit of the Americas. Then, on the margins of the plenary session, he met with President Nicolas Maduro Moros of Venezuela. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. April 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President met with 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) students during their visit to the White House with Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack. Later, in the Roosevelt Room, he and National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice met with leaders of Jewish organizations to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from a developing a nuclear weapon. Then, in the Diplomatic Reception Room, the President participated in separate "Live From the White House" television interviews with Jerry Revish of WBNS in Columbus, OH, Ron Martin of WGAL in Harrisburg, PA, John Stofflet of WMTV in Madison, WI, Cindy Williams of WCSH in Portland, ME, and Nancy Naeve of KSFY in Sioux Falls, SD, to discuss efforts to strengthen the national economy. Later in the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President met with Jewish community leaders to discuss international diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. The White House announced that the President will travel to Charlotte, NC, on April 15. The President announced his intention to nominate Glyn T. Davies to be Ambassador to Thailand. The President announced his intention to nominate Carol Waller Pope to be a member of the Federal Labor Relations Authority, and upon appointment, to designate her as Chairman. The President announced his intention to appoint Amanda Hesser as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President declared a major disaster in Massachusetts and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm, and flooding from January 26 through 28. April 14 The White House announced that the President will welcome Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, to the White House on April 20. April 15 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Charlotte, NC. While en route aboard Air Force One, he was briefed on the landing of a gyrocopter on the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol by Tampa, FL, resident Douglas M. Hughes. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will welcome the College Football Playoff National Champion Ohio State University football team to the White House on April 20. The President announced the nomination of Wilhelmina M. Wright to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. April 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President had lunch with Satya Nadella, chief executive officer of Microsoft Corp. Later, in the East Room, he hosted a Greek Independence Day reception. Vice President Biden also attended. The White House announced that the President will welcome 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Kevin Harvick and his Stewart-Haas Racing team members to the White House on April 21. The White House announced that the President will welcome the 2015 Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots to the White House on April 23. The President announced his intention to nominate Adam J. Szubin to be Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Crimes at the Department of the Treasury. The President announced his intention to nominate Jeffrey J. Hawkins, Jr., to be Ambassador to the Central African Republic. The President announced his intention to appoint Victoria Esser as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of the Treasury. April 17 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President met with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy. Vice President Joe Biden also attended. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President had a working lunch with Prime Minister Renzi. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss the situation in Yemen and Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations. The White House announced that the President will welcome leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council to the White House on May 13 and to Camp David, MD, on May 14. April 20 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 State John F. Kerry. Later in the morning, the President met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces. Secretary of State John F. Kerry; National Security Adviser Susan E. Rice; and Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdallah bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan, Deputy National Security Adviser Tahnoun Bin Zayed, and Ambassador to the U.S. Yusif bin Mani bin Said al-Utayba of the United Arab Emirates also attended. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had a working lunch with Crown Prince Mohammed. Later, in the Oval office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. The White House announced that the President with travel to Everglades National Park in Homestead, FL, to commemorate Earth Day on April 22. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Beji Caid Essebsi of Tunisia to the White House on May 21. The President declared a major disaster in Georgia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm from February 15 through 17. April 21 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he traveled to Tyson's Corner, VA, where, at the Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce, he recorded a roundtable interview with Chris Matthews of MSNBC's "Hardball With Chris Matthews" program for later broadcast. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly, Fairfax County Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Corcoran, Zansors, LLC, Chief Data Science Officer and Cofounder Abhijit Dasgupta, and Team Askin Technologies, Inc., President and Chief Executive Officer Debbie Askin also participated. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the Centennial Commemoration of the Events of 1915 in Armenia on April 24: Jacob J. Lew (head of delegation); Richard M. Mills, Jr.; Jacqueline Kanchelian Speier; Frank Pallone, Jr.; Anna G. Eshoo; and Dave Trott. April 22 In the morning, the President traveled to Miami, FL, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Homestead, FL, where he toured the grounds of Everglades National Park with South Florida Natural Resources Center Director Robert Johnson, Office of Everglades Restoration Initiatives Director Shannon A. Estenoz, and park ranger Alan Scott. Then, on the Visitors Center Gazebo, he recorded an interview for a White House Earth Day video series with William S. Nye, television personality and executive director of the Planetary Society, for later online broadcast. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Elaine Weinstein, wife of U.S. aid worker Warren Weinstein, a hostage who was killed during a U.S. counterterrorism operation against an Al Qaida compound in Pakistan on January 15, to offer his condolences for the death of her husband. He also had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Matteo Renzi of Italy to discuss the death of Italian aid worker Giovanni Lo Porto, a hostage who was also killed during the January 15 operation, to offer his condolences for the death of Mr. Lo Porto. The White House announced further details on the visit of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan to the White House on April 28. April 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The President announced his intention to appoint Mauro Morales as Staff Director of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. The President announced his intention to appoint Daniel Weiss as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. April 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, he traveled to McLean, VA. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. During the day, the President joined a conference call with Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez and journalists to discuss the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations and trade promotion authority legislation. The White House announced that the President will host a White House Tribal Youth Gathering on July 9. April 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Cabinet Room, he participated in an interview with Gerald F. Seib of the Wall Street Journal. In the afternoon, on the National Mall, the President and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan visited the Lincoln Memorial. Then, he returned to the White House. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch to welcome her to his team. During the meeting, he received an update from Attorney General Lynch on the ongoing situation in Baltimore, MD, following the April 19 death of Freddie C. Gray, Jr., from injuries sustained during his arrest by Baltimore police officers. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Mayor Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake of Baltimore, MD, to discuss the situation in Baltimore. In the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with Gov. Lawrence J. Hogan, Jr., of Maryland to discuss the situation in Baltimore. The White House announced that the President will honor the 2015 National and State Teachers of the Year on April 29. April 28 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan. In the afternoon, the President recorded a telephone interview with radio host Steve Harvey of "The Steve Harvey Morning Show" for later broadcast. In the evening, on the North Portico, the President and Mrs. Obama welcomed Prime Minister Abe and his wife Akie Abe for a state dinner and reception. Then, on the Grand Staircase, they participated in a photo opportunity with Prime Minister and Mrs. Abe. Later, in the State Dining Room, he and Mrs. Obama hosted an entertainment reception for Prime Minister and Mrs. Abe. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter V. Neffenger to be Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration at the Department of Homeland Security. The President declared a disaster under the Compact of Free Association between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Federated States of Micronesia, as amended, due to Typhoon Maysak during the period of March 29 through April 1. April 29 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Sushil Koirala of Nepal to express his condolences for the loss of life in the April 25 earthquake in Nepal, discuss ongoing disaster response and recovery efforts, and pledge U.S. assistance. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, the President walked with 2015 National Teacher of the Year Shanna Peeples to nearby Teaism restaurant, where he purchased lunch and tea. Then, on their way back to the White House, he stopped to talk to a group of schoolchildren who were visiting. Later, in the Private Dining Room, he had lunch with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. Later in the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President signed the 2015 Economic Report of the President. Then, he traveled to Bethesda, MD, where, at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, he visited with wounded U.S. servicemembers and their families. Later he returned to Washington, DC. April 30 In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President met with members of the New Democrat Coalition. The White House announced that the President will travel to New York City on May 4. The President announced his intention to nominate Gayle E. Smith to be Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced the nomination of Julie Helene Becker to be a judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. 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 winter storms, snowstorms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from February 15 through 22. May 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a video teleconference with mayors of Cities United to discuss the White House "My Brother's Keeper" initiative and the President's Task Force on 21st-Century Policing. The President announced his intention to appoint W. James McNerney, Jr., and Ann Marie Wilkins as General Trustees on the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The President announced his intention to appoint Russell F. Smith III as a U.S. Commissioner to the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas. The President announced his intention to appoint Guy "Bud" Tribble as a member of the President's National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee. The President announced his intention to nominate Elizabeth A. Copeland to be a judge on the U.S. Tax Court. 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, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from April 2 through 17. May 2 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Camp David, MD. May 3 In the afternoon, the President traveled to Joint Base Andrews, MD, where he played a round of golf. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. In the evening, the President was briefed on the shooting at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, TX. May 4 In the morning, the President traveled to New York City. In the afternoon, at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York City, the President recorded an interview with David Letterman of CBS's "Late Show With David Letterman" for later broadcast. In the evening, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. May 5 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 President Masoud Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq to discuss ongoing efforts to combat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization and reaffirm U.S. support for the Iraqi Kurdistan region and commitment to a united, federal, and democratic Iraq. Then, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. Later, he met with members of the Esperanza Azteca Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, CA, and Puebla, Mexico, prior to their performance at the White House Cinco de Mayo celebration. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with documentary filmmaker Anthony Geffen to discuss the President's upcoming interview with David F. Attenborough of the BBC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Portland, OR, on May 7. The White House announced that the President will travel to Watertown, SD, on May 8. May 6 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he made separate telephone calls to Stephanie Tarr of Coon Rapids, MN, Dawn Miller of Tucson, AZ, and Patricia Church of Ormond Beach, FL, who had written letters to the President, to wish them a happy Mother's Day. Later, in the Map Room, the President recorded an interview with English broadcaster and naturalist David F. Attenborough of the BBC for later broadcast. Atlantic Productions Chief Executive Officer Anthony Geffen also attended. The President announced his intention to nominate Karen Bollinger DeSalvo to be Assistant Secretary for Health at the Department of Health and Human Services. The President announced his intention to nominate Jennifer Zimdahl Galt to be Ambassador to Mongolia. The President announced his intention to nominate David R. Gilmour to be Ambassador to Togo. The President announced his intention to nominate James D. Melville, Jr., to be Ambassador to Estonia. The President announced his intention to nominate Peter F. Mulrean to be Ambassador to Haiti. The President announced his intention to nominate Edwin R. Nolan, Jr., to be Ambassador to Suriname. May 7 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 White House Fellows. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Portland, OR. May 8 In the morning, the President traveled to Beaverton, OR, where, in the Jerry Rice Lobby at Nike World Headquarters, he recorded an interview with Matt Bai of Yahoo! News for later online broadcast. Later, he traveled to Watertown, SD, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, while en route to Watertown aboard Air Force One, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to congratulate him on his election victory and discuss United Kingdom-U.S. relations. In the evening, on the tarmac of Watertown Regional Airport, the President met with 11-year-old Rebecca Kelley of Vermillion, SD, who had written a letter to the President asking him to visit South Dakota, and members of her family. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Ann Calvaresi Barr to be Inspector General of the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Julius Lloyd Horwich to be Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Congressional Affairs at the Department of Education. The President announced his intention to nominate Gregory G. Nadeau to be Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to appoint Elizabeth H. Blackburn as a member of the President's Committee on the National Medal of Science. The President announced his intention to appoint Xavier de Souza Briggs as a member of the Community Development Advisory Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Jacob J. Fitisemanu, Jr., Sanjita Pradhan, and Paul Y. Watanabe as members of the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities: Peter V. Berns; James T. Brett; Kenneth Capone; Zachary W. Holler; Deborah M. Spitalnik; and Elizabeth Weintraub. May 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia to discuss the King's regret at not being able to travel to Camp David, MD, to attend the Gulf Cooperation Council meetings and the attendance of Crown Prince Muhammad bin Nayif bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud and Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud in his place; the importance of reaching a comprehensive agreement between the P5-plus-1 and Iran to ensure the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program; the situation in Yemen; and Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations. May 12 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 Defense Ashton B. Carter. Also in the afternoon, he met with a group of Senate Democrats to discuss trade promotion authority legislation and Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations. The President declared a major disaster in Kentucky and ordered Federal aid to supplement Commonwealth and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a severe winter storm, snowstorm, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from March 3 through 9. May 13 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, on the South Lawn, he greeted Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President hosted a working dinner for Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations. Vice President Biden also attended. The President announced his intention to nominate Karl B. Brooks to be Assistant Administrator for Administration and Resources Management at the Environmental Protection Agency. The President announced his intention to nominate Laura Farnsworth Dogu to be Ambassador to Nicaragua. The President announced his intention to nominate Samuel D. Heins to be Ambassador to Norway. The President announced his intention to nominate Thomas O. Melia to be Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia at the U.S. Agency for International Development. The President announced his intention to appoint Fran Ulmer as Chairperson of the Arctic Research Commission. The President announced his intention to appoint James J. Zogby as a member of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. May 14 In the morning, the President traveled to Camp David, MD, where, in the Laurel Cabin conference room, he greeted Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations. Then, also in the Laurel Cabin, he participated in a working session. In the afternoon, in the Laurel Cabin, the President hosted a lunch for Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations. Later, also in the Laurel Cabin, he participated in a working session with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations. Later in the afternoon, the President participated in separate photo opportunities with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders and delegations, followed by a group photograph. Later, in the Laurel Cabin, he participated in a working session. Then, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The White House announced that the President will present the Medal of Honor posthumously to Sgt. William Shemin, USA, and Pvt. Henry Johnson, USA, for conspicuous gallantry during World War I. The President declared a major disaster in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from April 3 through 5. In the afternoon, in the Map Room, the President recorded an interview with Nadiya Bilbassy-Charters of the Al-Arabiya News Channel for later broadcast. The White House announced that the President will travel to Camden, NJ, on May 18. May 17 The White House announced that the President will travel to New London, CT, on May 20. May 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he participated in a credentialing ceremony for newly appointed Ambassadors. Also in the morning, in the Oval Office, he sent out his first tweet under the handle @POTUS, the official Twitter account of the President of the United States. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Camden, NJ, where, at the Camden County Police Department headquarters, he toured the department's Real-Time Tactical Operations and Information Center and met with local law enforcement officers and youth. Later, at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, he met with local law enforcement officials and youth. Then, he returned to Washington, DC. The White House announced that the President will travel to Stamford, CT, on May 20. The President announced the designation of John F. Kerry as leader of a Presidential delegation to attend the Inauguration of Muhammadu Buhari as President of Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, on May 29, with other members of the delegation to be announced at a future date. The President declared a major disaster in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from April 8 through 11. May 19 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Situation Room, he met with the National Security Council to discuss the situation in Iraq and the U.S. strategy to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization in Iraq and Syria. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in an interview with Jeffrey Goldberg of the Atlantic magazine. Then, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Joe Biden met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. The White House announced that the President will make remarks at the Adas Israel Congregation on May 22. May 20 In the morning, the President traveled to New London, CT. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Stamford, CT, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, the President returned to Washington, DC. The President announced his intention to nominate Stephen C. Hedger to be Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Department of Defense. The President announced his intention to nominate W. Thomas Reeder, Jr., to be Director of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation. The President announced his intention to nominate Jessica Rosenworcel to be a Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission. The President announced his intention to nominate Luis A. Viada to be a member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation. The President announced his intention to nominate Akhil R. Amar and Robert P. Zimmerman to be members of the National Council on the Humanities. The President announced his intention to appoint Ronald A. Klain as a member of the Council of the Administrative Conference of the U.S. The President announced his intention to appoint Gerald S. McGowan as a member of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Military Academy. May 21 The President announced his intention to nominate Denise Turner Roth to be Administrator of the General Services Administration. The President announced the nomination of Edward L. Stanton III to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. The President announced the nomination of Eric S. Miller to be U.S. attorney for the District of Vermont. The President announced the nomination of Michael C. McGowan to be U.S. marshal for the District of Delaware. The President declared a major disaster in West Virginia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from April 13 through 15. May 22 In the morning, at the Adas Israel Congregation, the President visited a preschool classroom and greeted students and teachers. In the afternoon, in the East Room, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a reception for the foreign diplomatic corps. May 25 In the morning, in the State Dining Room, the President hosted a Memorial Day breakfast. Then, he traveled to Arlington, VA, where, at Arlington National Cemetery, he participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Later, he returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the afternoon. The White House announced that the President will travel to Miami, FL, on May 27 and 28. May 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Also in the morning, he had a telephone conversation with Gov. Gregory W. Abbott of Texas to discuss the floods affecting Texas, express his condolences for the loss of life, and offer Federal assistance in the rescue and recovery efforts. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Biden greeted 97-year-old Vivian Bailey of Columbia, MD, and her guests, Principal Troy Todd and teacher Melissa Peyton of Running Brook Elementary School in Columbia. Ms. Bailey raises money for students at the school to take field trips. Then, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell. The White House announced further details on the President's awarding of the Medal of Honor posthumously to Sgt. William Shemin, USA, and Pvt. Henry Johnson, USA, on June 2. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Park Geun-hye of South Korea to the White House on June 16. The President declared a major disaster in Oklahoma and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from May 5 through 10. May 27 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Later, the President traveled to Miami, FL, where, at a private residence, he attended a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. In the evening, the President traveled to the Hilton Miami Downtown hotel, where he remained overnight. The President announced the designation of the following individuals as members of a Presidential to attend the Inauguration of Muhammadu Buhari as President of Nigeria in Abuja, Nigeria, on May 29: John F. Kerry (head of delegation); James F. Entwistle; Linda Thomas-Greenfield; David M. Rodriguez; Grant T. Harris; and Hakeem Olajuwon. May 28 In the morning, at the Hilton Miami Downtown hotel in Miami, FL, the President met with Arthur and Shirley Sotloff, parents, and Lauren Sotloff, sister, of Steven J. Sotloff, a freelance journalist who was killed by members of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization in Syria on September 2, 2014. Later, he traveled to the National Hurricane Center, where he toured the facilities with Director Richard Knabb and met with staff members. In the afternoon, at the National Hurricane Center, the President participated in a Twitter question-and-answer session on climate change. Then, he visited the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity in Miami, where he met with Rector Juan Rumin Dominguez, paid respects to the Cuban American community, and honored their contributions to the U.S. Later, he returned to Washington, DC. May 29 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Map Room, the President recorded an interview with Ilana Dayan of Israel's Channel 2 television station for later broadcast. The President announced his intention to nominate Marie Therese Dominguez to be Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to nominate Sarah E. Feinberg to be Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration at the Department of Transportation. The President announced his intention to appoint Rebecca Richards-Kortum and Andrew J. Viterbi as members of the President's Committee on the National Medal of Science. The President declared a major disaster in Texas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding beginning on May 4 and continuing. May 31 In the afternoon, at the U.S. Naval Observatory, the President and Mrs. Obama visited with Vice President Joe Biden, his wife Jill T. Biden, and their family to offer their condolences for the death of Joseph R. "Beau" Biden III, son of Vice President Biden. The White House announced that the Ford's Theatre Reception had been canceled out of respect for the death of Joseph R. "Beau" Biden III. June 1 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The President announced his intention to nominate Roberta S. Jacobson to be Ambassador to Mexico. The President announced his intention to appoint Cary Fowler as a member of the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development. The President announced his intention to appoint Marvin E. Johnson and David E. Walker as members of the Federal Service Impasses Panel for the Federal Labor Relations Authority. The President declared a major disaster in Texas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding beginning on May 4 and continuing. June 2 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President will welcome the World Series Champion San Francisco Giants to the White House on June 4. June 3 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, also in the Oval Office, he recorded an interview with Kai Ryssdal of NPR's "Marketplace" program for later broadcast. In the afternoon, in the Roosevelt Room, the President participated in separate "Live From the White House" interviews with Karen Borta of KTVT in Dallas, TX, Estela Casas of KVIA in El Paso, TX, Dennis Bounds of KING in Seattle, WA, Edie Lambert of KCRA in Sacramento, CA, and Barbara-Lee Edwards of KFMB in San Diego, CA. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of the Treasury Jacob J. Lew. June 4 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President and Mrs. Obama will travel to Wilmington, DE, on June 6. The President announced his intention to nominate Scott Allen to be the U.S. Director of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The President announced his intention to nominate Mary L. Kendall to be Inspector General at the Department of the Interior. The President announced his intention to appoint Jim M. Ash as a member of the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development. The President announced his intention to appoint Abba Cohen as a member of the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad. June 5 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President Petro Poroshenko of Ukraine to discuss the situation in eastern Ukraine, the recent assault by Russian-separatist forces near Donetsk, the need for Russia to abide by the terms of the Minsk agreement, and U.S. support for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. Then, in the Oval Office, he had an intelligence briefing. The President declared a major disaster in Guam and ordered Federal aid to supplement Territory and local recovery efforts in the area affected by Typhoon Dolphin from May 13 through 16. June 6 In the morning, the President, Mrs. Obama, their daughters Malia and Sasha, and Mrs. Obama's mother Marian Robinson traveled to Wilmington, DE. In the afternoon, they returned to Washington, DC. Later, he traveled to Munich, Germany, arriving the following morning. June 7 In the morning, upon arrival at Munich Airport, the President signed a guest book and participated in an arrival ceremony. Then, he traveled to the Schloss Elmau resort in Elmau, Germany. Later, he traveled to Krün, Germany, where, at Krün City Hall, he was welcomed by Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany and signed the town guest book. In the afternoon, the President toured the village with Chancellor Merkel and stopped for a pretzel and a beer with Chancellor Merkel and her husband Joachim Sauer. Then, he and Chancellor Merkel greeted local residents. Later, he returned to the Schloss Elmau resort in Elmau. Later in the afternoon, in the Second Library of the Old Castle Building, the President met with Chancellor Merkel. Then, in the entrance of the Old Castle Building, he participated in an arrival ceremony for Group of Seven (G-7) leaders with Chancellor Merkel and her husband Joachim Sauer. Later, in the Pavilion Room of the Retreat Building, he attended two G-7 working sessions on strengthening the world economy and trade. Later, he participated in a photo opportunity with G-7 leaders. In the evening, in the Concert Hall of the Old Castle Building, the President attended a reception and cultural performance with G-7 leaders, their spouses, and other guests. Later, in the Private Dining Room of the Old Castle Building, he participated in a working dinner with G-7 leaders to discuss foreign and security policy. He remained overnight at the Schloss Elmau. June 8 In the morning, in the Pavilion Room of the Retreat Building, the President participated in a third working session with Group of Seven (G-7) leaders and outreach guests to discuss energy initiatives and climate change. Later, in the Wetterstein Room of the Old Castle Building, he met with President François Hollande of France. Then, in the Fidelio Room of the Old Castle Building, he attended a fourth working session with G-7 leaders and outreach guests. In the afternoon, in the Inner Courtyard of the Schloss Elmau, the President participated in a photo opportunity with G-7 leaders and outreach guests. Then, in the Fidelio Room of the Old Castle Building, he had a working lunch with G-7 leaders, outreach guests, and summit sherpas to discuss development issues. Later in the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President announced his intention to nominate Carolyn Patricia Alsup to be Ambassador to the Gambia. The President announced his intention to nominate Paul Wayne Jones to be Ambassador to Poland. The President announced his intention to nominate Daniel H. Rubinstein to be Ambassador to Tunisia. The President announced the appointment of Shannon Price Minter as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. June 9 In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President and Office of Science and Technology Policy Director John P. Holdren met with Sen. C. William Nelson and other alumni of the Columbia Space Shuttle missions to discuss developments in astronomy and space exploration. June 10 In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, he met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. June 11 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, in the Rose Garden, he recorded an interview with Jerry Penacoli of Extra TV for later broadcast. In the afternoon, at a private residence, the President attended a Democratic National Committee fundraiser. In the evening, at Nationals Park, the President stopped by the 2015 Congressional Baseball Game for Charity. Also in the evening, the President had a telephone conversation with President Park Geun-hye of South Korea to discuss the postponement of her planned June 6 travel to the U.S., express his condolences for the loss of lives due to the MERS outbreak, and offer U.S. assistance. The President announced the designation of the individuals as members of a Presidential delegation to attend the 2015 World Expo in Milan, Italy, on June 17 and 18: Michelle Obama (head of delegation); John R. Phillips; Douglas T. Hickey; Risa J. Lavizzo-Mourey; Alonzo H. Mourning; Will Allen; Mario Batali; Carla Hall; and Nicolas Jammet. The President announced the nomination of Brian R. Martinotti to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The President announced the nomination of Robert F. Rossiter, Jr., to be a judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska. June 12 In the morning, in the Cannon House Office Building, the President met with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Rep. James E. Clyburn to discuss the upcoming votes on trade promotion authority and trade adjustment assistance legislation. Then, in the Gabriel Zimmerman Meeting Room of the Capitol Visitor Center, he dropped by a meeting of members of the House Democratic Caucus to discuss his trade agenda. In the afternoon, in the Situation Room, the President dropped by a video teleconference with Governors from six Western States to discuss ways to combat wildfires and drought. The President announced his intention to nominate John E. Morton to be Vice President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. The President announced his intention to appoint Nancy M. Schlichting as Chair of the President's Commision on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors. The President announced his intention to appoint David W. Gorman and Joyce M. Johnson as members of the President's Commission on Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors. June 13 In the evening, the President and Mrs. Obama hosted a private party featuring a musical performance by Prince. June 15 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Speaker of the House of Representatives John A. Boehner to discuss trade promotion authority legislation. June 16 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Biden had lunch. Later, in the Oval Office, they met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter. The White House announced that the President will travel to the Los Angeles, CA, area on June 18. June 17 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 Head Coach Stephen D. Kerr of the National Basketball Association's Golden State Warriors to congratulate him on his team's victory in the NBA Finals. Later, also in the Oval Office, he met with the recipients of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. Then, he met separately with Democratic Members of the Senate and House of Representatives to thank them for their support of trade promotion authority and trade adjustment assistance legislation and reiterate his commitment to working with congressional leaders to pass the legislation. In the evening, the President was briefed on the shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Head Coach Joel Quenneville, Principal Owner and Chairman Rocky Wirtz, and team captain Jonathan Toews of the National Hockey League's Chicago Blackhawks to congratulate them on their team's victory in the Stanley Cup Championship. The White House announced that the President will travel to San Francisco, CA, on June 19. June 18 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, in the Map Room, he recorded a video message for the White House Summit on Climate Change and Health on June 23. Later, he had separate telephone conversations with Rep. James E. Clyburn, Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr., of Charleston, SC, and Minority Leader J. Todd Rutherford of the South Carolina House of Representatives to discuss the June 17 shooting in Charleston and offer his condolences. In the afternoon, the President traveled to Los Angeles, CA. While en route aboard Air Force One, he had separate telephone conversations with Gov. Nikki R. Haley and Sens. Lindsey O. Graham and Timothy E. Scott of South Carolina to discuss the June 17 shooting in Charleston, SC, and offer his condolences. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, he traveled to a private residence, where he participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. The President announced his intention to nominate Julie Furuta-Toy to be Ambassador to Equatorial Guinea. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the National Cancer Advisory Board: Peter C. Adamson; Deborah Watkins Bruner; Yuan Chang; Timothy J. Ley; and Max S. Wicha. June 19 In the morning, the President traveled to the residence of comedian Marc Maron, where he recorded an interview for the "WTF With Marc Maron" podcast to be released on June 22. Later, he traveled to San Francisco, CA, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, the President traveled to the Hilton San Francisco Union Square hotel, where he met with Gov. Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown, Jr., of California to discuss the Federal, State, and local response to the drought and wildfires affecting California and thank Gov. Brown for his leadership in international efforts to combat climate change. Later, at a private residence, he participated in a Democratic National Committee roundtable fundraiser. The White House announced that the President will travel to Ethiopia in late July. The White House announced that the President will travel to Palm Springs, CA, on June 20 and 21. June 20 In the morning, the President traveled to Rancho Mirage, CA. In the afternoon, the President traveled to a private residence in the Thunderbird Heights neighborhood, where he remained overnight. June 21 In the morning, the President traveled to the Porcupine Creek Golf Course. In the afternoon, the President returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. June 22 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. The White House announced that the President and Vice President Joe Biden will travel to Charleston, SC, on June 26. June 23 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. In the afternoon, in the Private Dining Room, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had lunch. June 24 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. Then, he had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss U.S. electronic surveillance and intelligence-gathering programs and France-U.S. relations. In the afternoon, in the Cabinet Room, the President met with Vice Premier Liu Yandong, Vice Premier Wang Yang, State Councilor Yang Jiechi, and other special representatives to the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue and Consultation on People-to-People Exchange. Later, in the Blue Room, he visited with James Obergefell, plaintiff in the U.S. Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, who was attending the White House Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month Reception in the East Room. The White House announced that the President, Mrs. Obama, and Vice President Biden and his wife Jill T. Biden will travel to Charleston, SC, on June 26 June 25 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden had an intelligence briefing. During the briefing, also in the Oval Office, he was informed by White House Counsel W. Neil Eggleston, Chief of Staff Denis R. McDonough, and Deputy Chief of Staff Kristie A. Canegallo of the Supreme Court's decision to uphold key provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Then, he had a telephone conversation with U.S. Solicitor General Donald B. Verrilli, Jr., to congratulate him on the Supreme Court's favorable rulings in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and housing discrimination cases. In the evening, in the Usher's Office, the President met with Director of Speechwriting Cody S. Keenan to discuss the eulogy he would deliver at the funeral service for Pastor Clementa C. Pinckney of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC, on June 26. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of Russia to discuss efforts to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist organization, ongoing international negotiations to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, and the situations in Ukraine and Syria. The White House announced that the President will welcome President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria to the White House on July 20. The President declared a major disaster in Nebraska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from May 6 through June 17. June 26 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President had an intelligence briefing. Later, he had a telephone conversation with James Obergefell, plaintiff in the U.S. Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, to congratulate him on the Court's ruling in favor of marriage equality for same-sex couples. Then, he and Mrs. Obama traveled to Charleston, SC, arriving in the afternoon. In the afternoon, following the funeral service for Pastor Clementa C. Pinckney at the TD Arena of the College of Charleston, the President, Mrs. Obama, and Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill T. Biden met with families of the victims of the June 17 shooting at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston. Later, he and Mrs. Obama returned to Washington, DC, arriving in the evening. The President announced his intention to nominate Mark Cohen to be a member of the Merit Systems Protection Board and, upon appointment, to designate him Vice Chairman. The President announced his intention to nominate G. Kathleen Hill to be Ambassador to Malta. The President announced his intention to appoint the following individuals as members of the Board of Directors of the Presidio Trust: Lynne Benioff; Paula Robinson Collins; Nicola Miner; and Janet Reilly. The President announced his intention to appoint Eric Ortner as a member of the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. The President announced his intention to appoint Shervin Pishevar as a member of the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. The President announced his intention to appoint Steven Spinner as a member of the President's Commission on White House Fellowships. The President declared a major disaster in Arkansas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding from May 7 through June 15. June 28 During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany to discuss the fiscal situation in Greece and express his condolences for the deaths of the German citizens killed in a terrorist attack at a beach resort in Sousse, Tunisia, on June 26. June 29 In the morning, the President had a telephone conversation with President François Hollande of France to discuss the economic situation in Greece and express his condolences for the loss of life and injuries resulting from the terrorist attack at the Air Products gas factory in Saint-Quentin-Fallavier near Lyon, France, on June 26. In the afternoon, the President had a telephone conversation with President Beji Caid Essebsi of Tunisia to offer his condolences for the loss of life resulting from the terrorist attack on a beach resort in Souse, Tunisia, on June 26 and reaffirm U.S. cooperation on counterterrorism efforts and broader security issues. Later, on the National Mall, he visited the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial with President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil. In the evening, in the Blue Room, the President had a working dinner with President Rousseff. Vice President Joe Biden also attended. During the day, the President had a telephone conversation with Prime Minister David Cameron of the United Kingdom to express his condolences for the loss of life in the June 26 terrorist attack on a beach resort in Sousse, Tunisia, offer his support in confronting global terrorism, and discuss the need for structural economic reforms in Greece. The White House announced that the President will travel to Nashville, TN, on July 1. The White House announced that the President will travel to La Crosse, WI, on July 2. June 30 In the morning, in the Oval Office, the President and Vice President Joe Biden met with President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil. In the afternoon, in the Oval Office, the President participated in a teleconference call with elected officials and business and labor groups to discuss the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Later, also in the Oval Office, he and Vice President Biden met with Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter.