On Monday, August 3, President Obama will join VA Secretary Shinseki, Senator Webb and other administration officials to mark the implementation of the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The event will start at 10:30am and will be held in the Harris Theater at George Mason University. This bill honors the countless sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform by providing them with comprehensive educational benefits. On August 1,

On August 1, 2007, by Executive Order 13441, the President declared a national emergency and ordered related measures blocking the property of certain persons undermining the sovereignty of Lebanon or its democratic processes or institutions and certain other persons, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706). The President determined that the actions of certain persons to undermine Lebanon’s legitimate and democratically elected government or democratic institutions; to contribute to the deliberate breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, including through politically motivated violence and intimidation; to reassert Syrian control or contribute to Syrian interference in Lebanon,

Today the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2749, the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009, legislation that will raise food safety standards, allow the FDA to issue mandatory recalls of harmful products, and enhance our oversight of imported food.

I am thankful to Professor Gates and Sergeant Crowley for joining me at the White House this evening for a friendly, thoughtful conversation. Even before we sat down for the beer, I learned that the two gentlemen spent some time together listening to one another, which is a testament to them.

President Obama today nominated the following individuals as United States Marshals:

• David Cargill, District of New Hampshire
• David Demag, District of Vermont
• Genevieve May, Eastern District of Louisiana

The Pro-Vision All Male HISD Middle Charter School is opening the doors of opportunity for youth by hosting an open house on Saturday, August 8, 2009 from 9a.m. to 1p.m. and all thru the month of August in efforts to recruit young men in grades 5th thru 8th.

President Obama today nominated the following individuals as United States Attorneys:

• Daniel G. Bogden, District of Nevada
• Deborah K. Gilg, District of Nebraska
• Timothy J. Heaphy, Western District of Virginia
• Peter F. Neronha, District of Rhode Island

Today, President Obama nominated Abdul Kallon and Jacqueline Nguyen to United States District Court judgeships.

“These nominees have dedicated their careers to serving the public good,” said President Obama. “And in so doing, they have displayed an unyielding commitment to justice and integrity. I am confident that they will serve the American people well from the United States District Court bench, and I am honored to nominate them today.”

As part of the President’s ongoing outreach to the business community he invited Ivan Seidenberg, CEO of Verizon and Chairman of the Business Roundtable, Mike Duke, CEO of Wal-Mart, Dan DiMicco, CEO of Nucor and Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks to join him for lunch in the Private Dining Room this afternoon. They had a wide ranging conversation about the state of the economy, health care reform and energy during the 75 minute lunch. The President and his economic team look forward to continuing to hold informal meetings with members of the business community to seek their input.

Earlier today, the Vice President hosted two conference calls with Governors and Mayors/County Executives from across the country to discuss implementation of the Recovery Act.

Houston’s nationally ranked Bayou City Art Festivals continue their award-winning ways by bringing home a record eight 2009 Texas Festivals & Events Association (TFEA) honors.

On Friday, July 31, 2009, the President signed into law:

S. 1513, which extends the authorizations of certain Small Business Administration programs until September 30, 2009.

“I want to thank leaders in the House of Representatives for working quickly and in a bipartisan way to pass legislation that will use Recovery Act funds to keep “Cash for Clunkers” going. This program has been an overwhelming success, allowing consumers to trade in their less fuel efficient cars for a credit to buy more fuel efficient new models. It has given consumers a much needed break, provided the American auto industry an important boost, and is achieving environmental benefits well beyond what was originally anticipated. The program has proven to be a successful part of our economic recovery and will help lessen our dangerous dependence on foreign oil, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the quality of the air we breathe. I urge the Senate to act with the American consumers in mind to pass this important legislation.”

Edward M. Avalos, of New Mexico, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Commodity Credit Corporation, vice Bruce I. Knight.
Daniel G. Bogden, of Nevada, to be United States Attorney for the …

As part of the President’s ongoing outreach to the business community he invited Ivan Seidenberg, CEO of Verizon and Chairman of the Business Roundtable, Mike Duke, CEO of Wal-Mart, Dan DiMicco, CEO of Nucor and Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks to join him for lunch in the Private Dining Room this afternoon. They had a wide ranging conversation about the state of the economy, health care reform and energy during the 75 minute lunch. The President and his economic team look forward to continuing to hold informal meetings with members of the business community to seek their input.

Macy’s at The Woodlands will be abuzz with local students on August 16, 2009, as they try to spell their way to the Macy’s Spelling Bee Finals in New York. During the competition, each speller will be asked to spell eco-friendly, “green” words.

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Nebraska and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes during the period of June 5-26, 2009.

The President was deeply saddened by the death of former President of the Philippines Corazon Aquino. Ms. Aquino played a crucial role in Philippines history, moving the country to democratic rule through her non-violent “People Power” movement over twenty years ago. Her courage, determination, and moral leadership are an inspiration to us all and exemplify the best in the Filipino nation. On behalf of the American people, the President extends his deepest condolences to the Aquino family and the nation of the Philippines.

President Obama today named 16 recipients of the 2009 Presidential Medal of Freedom. America’s highest civilian honor, the Medal of Freedom is awarded to individuals who make an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

Already known as one of the good guys of boxing, Andre Berto is making a difference both in and out of the ring. Recently, cameras followed him as he made good on a promise. Berto always told Citrus Center Boys and Girls Club Chief Professional Officer Walt Hall that he would return to the club that had given him so much during his developmental years.