Provide a concise overview of the 'Where's George?' website, including its official launch date, how it is primarily funded, and at least two examples each of its public media coverage and academic recognition. Summarize this information as if explaining the website's background and impact.
Navigate to the 'FAQs/About' section. Click on the 'FAQ Page' link. Locate the official launch date and primary funding sources. Navigate to the 'News' section (accessible via the 'FAQs/About' dropdown or a direct link on the FAQ page). Identify at least two examples of public media coverage. Identify at least two examples of academic recognition. Synthesize all gathered information into a concise overview.
State the official launch date as December 23, 1998. List the primary funding sources as the creator's personal funds, banner ads, and the 'Friends of Where's George?' program/merchandise sales. Provide at least two specific examples of public media coverage (e.g., NPR, Rocketboom, UPI.com). Provide at least two specific examples of academic recognition (e.g., PLOS | One, Community Structure in Multi-Scale Transportation Networks). The answer should be presented as a cohesive summary, not just a list of facts.