Don't they know how many proclamations and commendations these politicians put out each year?  The wording in the LA Mayor one is almost verbatim with Ms. Pascotto's statement in the same press release.

I'd be so embarrassed if I were still a premie.  Is this the best they can do?

Association with famous halls and now politicians?   

I'm wondering what Rawat did to get the National Geographic Society mention.  Did he purchase a magazine subscription to become a member?

What sitcom was it that some local yokel was bragging about becoming an "official member of the National Geographic Society?"  The Andy Griffith Show?  Was it a movie?  I can't remember, but it was hilarious.