NE-Jason Jolkowski

[Gabby]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/GlendaRita/Bump.gif


Bumping for Jason, those who love him and those that continue to search and to pray for his safe return

[Kelly]

I will be a guest on the KWIX Morning Show on Monday, July 25th at about 8:30am CST. You can listen live at KWIX Live (http://regionalradio.com/html/kwix.html)

This 30 minute talk covers a wide range of topics including: Jason's story, the history of Project Jason, our awareness programs, personal safety and preparation, and the media's coverage of missing person's cases.

Thank you.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
www.projectjason.org

[Ntegrity]

Very cool, Kelly. I'll do my best to listen :)

[Kelly]

Thanks, Ntegrity.

I think it was one of my better interviews. The host seems genuienely interested.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[Ntegrity]

You can listen live at KWIX Live (http://regionalradio.com/html/kwix.html)
Kelly, what am I doing wrong? I was gonna make sure I could get a connection the broadcast began but I got the following message: "Streaming audio is only available during local sports broadcasts. You will not hear any audio until the start time listed below." ... and nothing is listed below.

[Kelly]

Try it again. I'm at work, so I can't do it, so I don't know why it wouldn't work. Thanks!

Kelly

[Ntegrity]

Maybe I'm just too stoopid to figure it out but I can't get it to work. If anyone else had luck, please let me know what you did.

[Kelly]

I haven't heard that anyone listened to it, so I have no idea if there was other problems. Thanks for trying anyway.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[goneinasecond]

I have read about Jason and how when he disappeared. Has there been any new information since his disappearance? Were there ever any clues found? Is there a thread with this information in it?

[Kelly]

Thanks for inquiring. There were never any solid clues, nor any as of late. This thread contains info about him and some about the case. It also references his website.

Thank you.

Kelly

[Kelly]

Project Jason was featured in the current issue of the National Center for Missing Adults newsletter "The Missing Voice".

The Come Home program, the first ever national missing locator program which seeks the missing among the homeless, is mentioned on page 5 of the newsletter.

On page 7 is a piece that I wrote for a family of a missing person who was struggling with the emotions surrounding having a missing loved one. I also used this piece as a basis for my keynote speech at the New York State Missing Person's Day earlier this year. The piece is called "Let no Stone Remain Unturned".

You can read the newsletter at:

Link to Newsletter (http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/newsletter/vol1issue5.pdf)

With Hope,
Kelly

[Kelly]

Blog About Missing Persons Contains “Inside Information”

Omaha, NE, August 1, 2005 -- Blogs exist that contain information about missing persons, but none are written with the firsthand knowledge and inside information of someone who works directly with the families of the missing. The blog, “Project Jason-Voice for the Missing”, is written by Kelly Jolkowski, who has experienced this tragedy herself, as her own son, Jason, has been missing without a trace for over 4 years.

Daily entries to the blog will take you inside the lives of the families of the missing. Readers can follow along as the never-ending stories unfold. Professionals who work in the field will also be given a voice, as they provide information in their area of expertise.

Frustrated by the lack of attention for all missing persons cases, nonprofit organization Project Jason founder Kelly Jolkowski wanted to find another way to fulfill their mission statement, which calls for them to create and increase awareness for these persons. Thousands of missing person’s cases do not get national attention, and may not even get local attention.

Recently featured in a USA Today article about lack of attention for missing person’s cases, particularly for missing males, Kelly hopes that the article, and now the blog, along with the outcry from other Internet sources, will help bring about change: “Awareness is the key to resolving these cases and reuniting the families. We have to help make them visible in order to accomplish this.”

On the blog, Kelly states: “We are the Voice for the Missing; speaking for those who are not among us but who are forever in our hearts. Through the eyes of those who experience this tragedy; the families of the missing, and through our own personal experiences, we'll share the pain, the fears, and the daily struggles.”

The blog can be viewed at http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

Project Jason is a 501 (c ) 3 nonprofit organization based out of Omaha, NE. The all-volunteer group’s primary focus is awareness for missing person’s cases, support and resources for their families, and education of the public.

[Kelly]

Highly respected blogger Steve Huff spoke of the brand new Project Jason blog on his Twilight Kingdom blog today.

http://www.planethuff.com/twilight_kingdom/

"More Missing People in the Tropics, and a Note About Kelly & Jason


I must point you toward a new missing persons-related blog begun by Kelly Jolkowski. voice4themissing.blogspot.com is either a companion to or part of Kelly's Project Jason.

Kelly Jolkowski's son Jason, age 19, vanished on June 13, 2001. His brother Michael last saw Jason dragging trashcans up from the curb while Jason was waiting for a ride to his job. There is no reason to believe Jason is a runaway, but there are very few clues as to what did happen.

I quote now from Project Jason's mission statement:

Our mission as a non profit organization is to create and increase public awareness of missing people through a variety of outreach and educational activities. Project Jason seeks to bring hope and assistance to families of the missing by providing resources and support.

The mission also applies to Kelly's new blogspot blog.

Because Twilight Kingdom already gets a decent number of readers daily I want to quote from an e-mail Kelly sent me:

"It's so heartbreaking to try to get media attention for our families and strike out time after time. I know it is like a slap in the face to them when their cheek is already so raw. That is why I had to start this blog. I'll sneak in the back door if I have to and get the word out for these families in pain..."

The media can seem highly selective about this particular subject. You even hear reporters on various news channels discussing this criticism -- that some missing persons cases get more coverage than others -- and lamely defending lack of coverage because, say, "law enforcement doesn't suspect foul play" yet, or because the person may have simply run away.

Hopefully Kelly's move into blogging will be as wise as I think it is, and she will be able to bring more and more of these unjustly neglected cases forward. Because I do get a few hundred readers a day here right now, perhaps the word will spread, which is the reason I quoted from Kelly's e-mail. The families at the very least deserve the comfort of knowing that somewhere out there, complete strangers will still give a damn, whether their missing loved ones' face is plastered all over CNN or Fox or not."

[Kelly]

www.prolifeblogs.com (http://www.prolifeblogs.com/articles/archives/2005/08/project_jason_s.php)

Project Jason - Searching for the Mssing
One of the newest members of ProLifeBlogs.com is the weblog of Project Jason which shares the stories of the lives of missing persons and their families.

http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

Kelly Jolkowski, the founder of Project Jason, turned her own personal tragedy (the disapperance of her son Jason) into help and action for others. She states, "We are the Voice for the Missing; speaking for those who are not among us but who are forever in our hearts. Through the eyes of those who experience this tragedy; the families of the missing, and through our own personal experiences, we'll share the pain, the fears, and the daily struggles."

Recently featured in a USA Today article about lack of attention for missing person’s cases, particularly for missing males, Kelly hopes that the article, and now the blog, along with the outcry from other Internet sources, will help bring about change: "Awareness is the key to resolving these cases and reuniting the families. We have to help make them visible in order to accomplish this."

I share Kelly's hope and encourage pro-life bloggers to help Project Jason spread the word about individuals who, like Jason, are missing.

[Kelly]

Voice for the Missing (http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2005/08/long-time-ago-in-place-far-away.html)

Jason's photo will be shown on a national TV show this Friday evening, August 19th. You can read the complete story on the Project Jason blog.

Thank you.

Kelly

[Kelly]

Link to Story (http://www.racingwest.com/news/story.php3/12071/)

http://www.racingwest.com/images/news/large/05/jolkowski_09-01.jpg

Cause driven Youth living a dream
Steele Races for Missing Nebraska Youth


Tony Steele, of Glendale AZ accepts a challenge of a lifetime. Steele, at only sixteen years of age with many challenges ahead in his young life, has one huge one presently in front of him. “We can’t imagine what we will learn at the Nationals, most of the best drivers in the country will be competing in this event” Said Tony Steele.
http://www.racinginiowa.com/boonespeedway.html

Steele will be competing in the IMCA Super Nationals in Boone, IA. Boone Speedway is hosting stockcar racing at its finest with Hobby Stocks, Stocks, Late Models, Sprints and the Modifieds with car counts in the seven-hundred range. Racing starts on Monday September 5th through September 10th with tune up events for Steele at Beatrice Speedway, Nebraska Saturday night, September 3rd, and at Nebraska’s Raceway Park on Sunday, September 4th. http://www.neracewaypark.com

Veteran and standout driver/car owner Terry Shearer of Auburn, Nebraska will provide the experience necessary for Steele, as he will prepare a second IMCA hobby stock for action during the week of the Nationals. Steele, will be representing the Racing for the Missing (RFTM) Safety & Awareness program in Shearer`s #9TS Razor Chassis/Olds Cutlass. The photograph of missing Omaha youth, Jason Jolkowski, will adorn the hood of this racecar, and his family will be in attendance at both the Sunday and Monday night events.

Steele will have to literally out drive over one hundred of his competitors just to make it in to the main event held Saturday night September 10th. Pete Steele (Tony’s father) commented “This is the first step of many, Tony knows how to win and when we do this we can focus on winning the biggest race of Tony’s life to this point.” With the help of veteran racer and Nebraska resident Terry Shearer, the Arizona driver and his father will live one of many dreams in what they believe will be a long career in motorsports.

RFTM is a division of the Nations Missing Children’s Organization & Center for Missing Adults and aside from promoting safety in communities nationwide, RFTM`s mission is to increase the likelihood of a safe return of a missing child or “at risk” adult. We do this by positioning photographs of missing persons and law enforcement contact information on the most valued location on a racecar in high-visibility motor sports venues such as NASCAR, NHRA, USAC, and others. We provide support and encourage family involvement with teams and media trackside improving awareness and utilizing the team’s transporters as mobile billboards positively impacting the communities we travel through serving to protect and involve personal safety information at each event.

MISSING

Jason Anthony Jolkowski of Omaha Nebraska, disappeared June 13, 2001 Jason was last seen bringing in garbage cans at his residence after pickup. He was leaving to go meet a co-worker at the high school only 8 blocks away to get a ride to work but never arrived. He has not accessed his bank account and has not cashed checks from his employer.

http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/gallery/ncmaprofile_all.php?A200301135W

Jason is a white male, six foot one inches tall, weighing 165 pounds with brown hair, brown eyes and a light complexion. Jason was last seen wearing a white "Chicago Cubs" or "Sammy Sosa" t-shirt, black dress pants, blue "Cubs" cap, dress shoes, and also carrying red work shirt.

To learn more about Jason’s disappearance and how you can help others, go to these web sites for more information. www.Projectjason.org and www.theyaremissed.org

“We are so fortunate to have people like the Steele family working with us, together we are creating a safer place for our children.” said Darrell LaMoure, Co-Founder of RFTM and Program Manager.

We extend a special thank you to our friends at Nebraska Raceway Park and Boone Speedway for their support of the family of Jason Jolkowski. Each facility will provide Jason’s family with complementary VIP passes to the events and an opportunity to share their story with the people of Iowa & Nebraska. Thanks also to Justice Brothers, Meyer-Earp Chevrolet and Razor Chassis for all of their efforts on the Hobby Stock that Tony will pilot.

[PrayersForMaura]

that is awesome Kelly!

Prayers to Tony, too. He has a big heart :)

[Gabby]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/GlendaRita/Bump.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v245/GlendaRita/Bump.gif

[Peabody]

http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/ September 13, 2005

Dearest Kelly,

September 13th is my "baby" daughter's 28th birthday, a day of celebration for our family.

However, today and always, your heartache and your hope touch me deeply.

With prayers for Jason and all of you who love and miss him so.



Bring Maura Home!
www.mauramurray.com (http://www.mauramurray.com/)
www.spbowers.com\mauramissing.html (http://www.spbowers.com/mauramissing.html)

[Gabby]

Hugs and many prayers going your way Kelly

You will SEE him again... just keep the faith

[Kelly]

Thank you for the prayers. We all need them to continue our journey. Our hearts are heavy, but with the help of kind people like you, we are uplifted and continue on.

Kelly

[Kelly]

I posted the story of Jason as one of the featured missing persons on the Racing for the Missing program on the Project Jason blog. I have now also posted the follow-up story with photos.

http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2005/09/9305-our-cause-in-motion.html

http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2005/09/92505-our-cause-in-motion-results-and.html

Thank you.
Kelly

[Bobbisangel]

Kelly,
Have you ever thought of contacting the news channels and asking them to show a picture of one missing person per show? They could also give a brief summary about the missing person. It would take a few seconds of their time and would get the faces of the missing out there.

You could send them pictures and a brief summary...say 7 at a time...to last for a week. I know it would be time consuming for you but you just never know what might happen. I think it is about time that CNN, ABC, FOX, and all of the rest pitch in and do something really important.

Just a thought but I don't know why they couldn't do this.

[Kelly]

Actually, I wrote a media challenge asking for this very thing about 6 months ago. For reason I cannot recall, something came up and I didn't get to it. I still have the file and have not forgotten it.

As I handle over 75 family cases now, this is why I need help with these media challenges. I offer to publish the piece here if anyone is willing to send it.

Thank you!

Kelly

[Bobbisangel]

Actually, I wrote a media challenge asking for this very thing about 6 months ago. For reason I cannot recall, something came up and I didn't get to it. I still have the file and have not forgotten it.

As I handle over 75 family cases now, this is why I need help with these media challenges. I offer to publish the piece here if anyone is willing to send it.

Thank you!

Kelly


I don't have a clue what to do but if you send me the info and give me a step by step I would be more than willing to help out. I think I would enjoy doing it. Make myself useful :D

[Kelly]

Thank you. Silly me, I have the file at work but not home. I will take a look at it tomorrow and post it.

Kelly

[Kelly]

I found the file and discovered I had never finished the letter! I will work on this. Thank you.

Kelly

[Bobbisangel]

I found the file and discovered I had never finished the letter! I will work on this. Thank you.

Kelly


It's alright...lol.

[Kelly]

Jason's Law is Launched
http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/1880507.html

Missing Adults
Information Clearinghouse


The Nebraska State Patrol has set up a clearinghouse to coordinate the search for missing adults. Information has been collected and now is available on a Web site maintained by the Patrol.

The patrol will collect and disseminate information on missing persons to help law enforcement agencies, public and private organizations and individuals hoping to find the missing.

Creation of the clearinghouse was approved this year by the Legislature. Thirty-eight other states have such clearinghouses.

The patrol has maintained a similar database of missing children.

The new site has pictures and information on three missing adults in Nebraska, but the patrol said more names are in the process of being added. The people posted are Michael Ashby of Omaha, missing since 1992; Regina Bos of Lincoln, missing since 2000; and Jason Jolkowski of Omaha, missing since 2001.

The Web site also links users to information about people missing from other states. The public can access the files through the Nebraska State Patrol's Web site.

The clearinghouse can also be reached by calling toll-free (877) 441-5678.

[Gabby]

Jason's Law is Launched
http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/1880507.html

Missing Adults
Information Clearinghouse


The Nebraska State Patrol has set up a clearinghouse to coordinate the search for missing adults. Information has been collected and now is available on a Web site maintained by the Patrol.

The patrol will collect and disseminate information on missing persons to help law enforcement agencies, public and private organizations and individuals hoping to find the missing.

Creation of the clearinghouse was approved this year by the Legislature. Thirty-eight other states have such clearinghouses.

The patrol has maintained a similar database of missing children.

The new site has pictures and information on three missing adults in Nebraska, but the patrol said more names are in the process of being added. The people posted are Michael Ashby of Omaha, missing since 1992; Regina Bos of Lincoln, missing since 2000; and Jason Jolkowski of Omaha, missing since 2001.

The Web site also links users to information about people missing from other states. The public can access the files through the Nebraska State Patrol's Web site.

The clearinghouse can also be reached by calling toll-free (877) 441-5678.



Congratulations Kelly... I know that you are proud to have your hard work finally begin to pay off.... Prayers for your family and Jason... May he come home to you soon.

Much Love,
Gabs

[Kelly]

We'll always keep the candle of hope burning in our hearts for him. Thank you.

Kelly

[lisan1373]

Kelly, congrats on your successful venture. I pray you will find the answers you so truly deserve to know and hear and that Jason will be found.

[Peabody]

Dear Kelly,

Congratulations!

It cannot have been an easy road for you and your family.

Others will benefit from your heartache. You are such an example of how we are to deal with adversity.

God bless you!


Bring Maura Home!
www.MauraMurray.com (http://www.mauramurray.com/)
www.spbowers.com\mauramissing.html (http://www.spbowers.com/mauramissing.html)

[Kelly]

Thank you so much.

I wrote on the blog today about our 2nd anniversary. I will also be writing more about it late tonight.

Kelly

[Kelly]

October 6th marked the two year anniversary of Project Jason. Several posts dating back to 10/5 on the Project Jason blog recap the the past year. Thank you for your support!

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Kelly]

Press Release from 411gina.org:

For Immediate Release: Oct 10, 2005

5 Year Disappearance of Lincolnite Brings Music, International Webcast and NASCAR!

In honor of: Gina Bos Missing since Oct. 2000

5th Annual “GINA Concert”

OCTOBER 16, 2005

2-4PM
Meadowlark Coffee House
1624 South Street
Lincoln, NE

Jannel Rap with Yvonne Perea

Local talent: Shawn Benjamin, Brian McDonald, Von Rap, Patty Sullivan, Leann and Tammy (Rap) Smith, Mick Damian, Mike Johnson & Steve Ekery

Profiling Midwest MISSING:

(**Family members will be in attendance)

**Gina Bos and **Melissa Schmidt-Lincoln, **Jason Jolkowski-Omaha, **Jackie Rains-Krachman-Columbus, **Erin Pospisil-Cedar Rapids, Molly Datillo-Indianapolis, Ashley Martinez-St Joseph, Justin Harris-Casper, Wyoming, Robert Thomas Pillsen-Rahier-Colorado Springs and April Wiss-Wichita

SPECIAL WEBCAST

Saturday Oct 22 from 10-12PM CST or 8-10 PST

Web Cast to highlight Gina and Midwest Missing. Tune in early to watch this interactive event! www.Kulakswoodshed.com

In Concert: Jannel Rap and the C Street Band, The Squirts and other Midwest Artists

NASCAR NOV 10, 2005

in honor of GINA Bos' Nov 4, 1959 Birthday! A larger than life image of Gina Bos on the hood of the Napa Auto Parts Chevy Monte Carlo in the NASCAR Elite Division Southwest Series #94. in front of a crowd of nearly 60,000 people.

ABOUT“G.I.N.A. (Greater Information Now Available) for Missing Persons: Over 100 GINA Concerts have been held from LA to NYC and most recently have evolved to a monthly LIVE WEBCAST. These concerts feature artists and the missing from their area of the country each month.

100’s of missing children and adults have been profiled on our Web sites, CD’s, America Lost and FOUND, Warrior’s for the Missing the GINA Concerts. Some of the missing have been brought home to their families.

For More Info: www.411Gina.org

[Gabby]

Kelly

I read about this on your blog....I read it daily if I am home if not that is the 2nd thing I read ... I check emails first......

JASON will come home to you... All in God's time....

I pray for you, Jason and all the families of missing and the missing themselves.


I am so proud to know you...

Love and Prayers
Gabby

[inquiringmindz]

Kelly,

Have you seen this? They may be able to help find Jason.

http://www.solvemycase.com/case/?q=home

Peace, Prayers, and Hope! Jennifer

[Kelly]

Gabby, I am sure there is a place "upstairs" reserved especially for you! :)

IM: Thank you for this link! I already submitted Jason on it. (meaning after seeing it here) I will also let my families know about this. There are many who could use help like this, too.

Thank you for thinking of us.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[Gabby]

Bumping for Jason, Kelly and families of the missing

[Kelly]

Thank you to our dear, sweet Gabby.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[Kelly]

Oct 22, 2005
8-10 PM PST

"GINA for Missing Persons" LIVE WEBCAST CONCERT

Featuring Midwest Missing

in honor of GINA Bos missing since Oct 17, 2000

The Squirts and Jannel Rap

Kulak's Woodshed
5230 1/2 Laurel Canyon Blvd
North Hollywood, CA
818-766-9913
http://www.kulakswoodshed.com/

Oct 17, 2005 marks the 5 year disappearance of my sister, Gina Bos, mother of 3, daughter of 7 and friend to all. She is missed, she is loved and we will continue to look for her until she is brought back to us. We are honoring Gina in this special event by doing what she would do by honoring others...who are missing.


It is recommended that you try to get online ahead of time (follow the prompts for webcast) to make sure you do not miss it. (If you get on early you may get to see our sound check etc...)

HOW TO WATCH ONLINE!

Just go to http://www.kulakswoodshed.com/webcast.shtml

Click on: Take me to the Webcast (Performances from 8p-10p) PST


Click on the speed of your internet access
56K (Dial Up)
256K/500K (DSL/CABLE)
Once the speed is selected, the show will begin on the internet.
During the Show, You can make a donation to the organization and Email the performers live. They will even talk back to you.

MIDWEST MISSING!

G.I.N.A. for Missing Persons will be featuring some of the missing in THE MIDWEST (See Below & all missing are also Featured on www.411gina.org/missing.html):


Ø Gina Bos- Lincoln, NE

www.411gina.org

Ø Melissa Schmidt- Lincoln, NE

http://411gina.org

Ø Jason Jolkowski- Omaha, NE

http://www.missingjason.com

Ø Jaquelyn Rains-Kracman- Columbus, NE

http://411gina.org

Ø Erin Pospisil- Cedar Rapids, IA

http://www.helpfindachild.com/erins_story.htm

Ø Molly Dattilo- Indianapolis, Indiana

http://www.findmollydattilo.com/

Ø Vinyette Teague- Chicago, IL

http://411gina.org

Ø Ashley Martinez- St Joseph, Missouri

http://www.findashleymartinez.com/

Ø Justin Harris- Casper, Wyoming

http://www.findjustinharris.com

Ø Robert Pillsen-Rahier: Colorado Springs, CO

http://411gina.org

Ø April Susanne Wiss- Wichita, Kansas

http://411gina.org

About the Performers!

When my sister disappeared nearly 5 years ago it was my musician friends that I called on to help get the word out. Those friends have stuck by me giving whatever asked, when needed. The Squirts (Matt Bissonnette, George Bernhardt & Rodger Carter) have become that kind of friends. This is the first GINA Concert they have been involved with and we are grateful and excited about the possibilities. The Squirts are more than amazing musicians and singer/songwriters of the highest quality. They regularly open for Rick Springfield as well as play in his band. They don't stop there...as the talented trio splits up and plays for any # of artists that might be seen on: The Tonight Show, David Letterman, Good Morning America and more...Too much to talk about with these guys. You will not be disappointed. The Squirts are giving of their time and talent to help continue this cause. They are the real deal, people, so get your popcorn and log on Saturday night as you are in for a treat (as am I)!
Please encourage your email list to watch &/or attend.

See you at Kulak's or on the WEB.

In the wake of 9/11 and Katrina missing people have been brought into our living rooms like never before. We are beginning to accept the fact that if we pay attention we may actually be able to help bring someone's loved one home.

I hope that you will not ask why are those people missing, why these artists giving their time, why does this sister go on and on with this...why, why, why and instead ask what can I do to help? By asking "what" you can watch this "GINA Concert" Live Webcast , pay close attention to the missing Midwesterners and donate to the cause if you have the means. We would like to dedicate the funds that come in to give us the opportunity to have a monthly broadcast featuring the missing from different areas of the country. We appreciate the gift of your time and money...it will stretch across the world and give families a chance to bring one home. We are all best known for omething, how about make it Best Known for Asking" What" can I do to help?

Thanks for all you do!

Jannel Rap
http://www.411Gina.org
http://www.411Warrior.org
http://www.AmericaLostandFOUND.org

[jodierenee]

kelly...

the links with the ... in them aren't working...just thought you'd like to know!

[Kelly]

http://www.journalstar.com/articles/2005/10/23/top_story/doc435ad0d032b46063081819.txt

Top Story:

Nebraska set to offer clearinghouse for missing adults

By GWEN TIETGEN / Lincoln Journal Star

When Kelly Jolkowski realized her son Jason had disappeared from their Omaha home just days before his 20th birthday, she felt like she was watching herself in a movie and couldn’t get out.

Numb. Paralyzed.

Jason was last seen June 13, 2001, by his brother, Michael.

“Somewhere between our driveway and the high school he disappeared,” said Jolkowski, noting his car was in the shop so a friend was picking him up for work. “Over four years later, we don’t really know a thing. A police sergeant (called it) the most baffling case he has seen in 30 years.”

Since then, Jolkowski has thrust her grief into looking for her son and helping others with missing loved ones.

She helped push a law through the Legislature this year to create a statewide missing persons clearinghouse for adults and children. A Web site will complement the clearinghouse so all can see Nebraska’s missing. The information is set to go online in about a month, said Lt. John Shelton, with the Nebraska State Patrol.

Inside law enforcement, the new law means the names of both missing children and adults are forwarded to the Nebraska State Patrol. Those in law enforcement also receive a bulletin twice a month of all the state’s missing persons.

Prior to passage of the law, which took effect in September, law enforcement only passed on names of missing children younger than of 16.

“If it was an adult, it’s possible no one else would know they are missing unless you contact that department,” said Lincoln police Capt. Gary Engel.

The clearinghouse also will establish a procedure to alert local media outlets, said Cindy Kess, clearinghouse manager and supervisor in the State Patrol’s criminal identification division.

“It’ll be a work-in-progress, really, is what it’ll be,” she said.

Now, the State Patrol’s Web site links to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the National Center for Missing Adults Web sites.

Three missing adults and seven missing children from Nebraska pop up on those Web sites, but that’s a far cry from the 391 active missing persons cases in Nebraska as of Sept. 31, Kess said.

At any given time, Lincoln police investigate 50 to 75 missing adult and children cases, Engel said.

Most are found within a reasonable amount of time, and only half a dozen or so are long-term cases or are missing under suspicious circumstances, he said.

The most suspicious and notorious cases in Lincoln are those of Regina Bos and Melissa Schmidt.

Bos, who would now be 45, was last seen Oct. 17, 2000, outside a downtown Lincoln bar. Schmidt, who would now be 25, was last seen Sept. 5, 1995. She had stayed over at a friend’s home the night before, and the next day went to the Nebraska State Fair, Engel said. Investigators believe she came home from the fair and disappeared sometime afterward.

Jolkowski said the typical person has no idea where to turn after reporting a loved one missing. The notion of offering rewards or posting pictures of the missing person may be foreign to families who find themselves in the middle of a police investigation, she said.

To help, Jolkowski formed Project Jason.

“I think there’s a healing. A self-healing in reaching out and helping other people,” she said.

But helping others puts her on an emotional roller coaster, she said.

There are good days, like when media coverage of a missing person could lead to a tip that finds the loved one.

And there are bad days. In one week, Jolkowski found out two of the three families she had been working with were told their loved one had been murdered.

Sometimes, talking about missing people can make Jolkowski relive her own horrifying experience. Those times are starting to be less and less now, she said.

She goes on after hearing another grieving family member thank her for her help. And for caring.

“These people need that relief of talking to somebody who truly understands,” she said.

One night after a long conversation, a family member said simply, “‘I don’t even know you but I love you.’”

“I’m so blessed to get to do this work. It’s a privilege to help people and affect things in their lives, and we get to do it in our son’s name.”

Whether it’s help through Project Jason or the clearinghouse, awareness is the key, Jolkowski said.

“Because sooner or later you’re going to run across somebody who knows something,” she said.

Said the State Patrol’s Shelton: “Eventually, when the Web site is populated, it’ll put more eyes on the street for law enforcement to solve more of these missing persons (cases).”

On the Web

Project Jason, a nonprofit organization designed to help families cope and find their missing loved ones: www.projectjason.org.

Nebraska State Patrol: http://www.nsp.state.ne.us/ Click on Programs/Services

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: http://www.missingkids.com/

National Center for Missing Adults: http://www.theyaremissed.org/ncma/

[KT Can]

Kelly -

I've been really busy lately and haven't been able to post much, but I am always thinking of you and your family. I am glad to see Jason getting some media attention. Oh how I wish that someday soon you could have an answer. God bless.


-KT

[Kelly]

Thanks, KT. We know that someday, it will be our turn to have the answers we seek.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[inquiringmindz]

Just checking in for new news about Jason...I hope NBC will air your story.

Stay Strong & Keep The Faith Jolkowski's!

[petra]

Thinking and praying for Jason and his wonderful family.

[ShowerSinger]

Do you have a picture that is, I dunno, updated to look like him today, 2005?

[Kelly]

It's on the NCMEC poster and in several other places, yes.

http://www.missingkids.com/missingkids/servlet/PubCaseSearchServlet?act=viewPoster&caseNum=992083&orgPrefix=NCMA&searchLang=en_US

Kelly....still hoping

[Kelly]

http://www.theindependent.com/stories/103005/new_missing30.shtml

Web-Posted Oct 30, 2005

Looking for the lost, missing
Not all cases are handled the same by officials


By Gretchen Fowler


From the 2001 abduction of a Kearney teenager to a massive search for two Ord natives lost in a snowstorm, missing persons cases in Nebraska over the past five years have made local, state and national news.
Not all cases are handled the same, and not all cases have a happy ending. Fortunately, even in the grimmest looking of circumstances, some of them do.

"Our attempts to locate, the majority of the time, come in the form of overdue parties," said Capt. Chris Kolb, who commands the Nebraska State Patrol's Troop C, which is based in Grand Island.

Such was the case when Kearney farmer Gerald "Jerry" Gillming, 52, was reported missing on Oct. 21 from his farmland near Gibbon. He didn't show up when expected and was reported missing by his family.

Gillming was found alive five days later in Kansas and returned home in good health. He claimed to have been abducted but admitted later that the story was made up.

Air and ground searches conducted for Gillming were similar to searches conducted for a missing Indiana woman whose abandoned car was found in Hamilton County this year. In both cases, law enforcement had a specific area to search, and in both cases, the search was called off when the area had been thoroughly covered.

"A lot of it is based on the information you have on hand and the resources available to use," Kolb said of the decision to initiate a full-scale search.

The situation's circumstances control what assets are put forward and how far the initial search goes, he said. When you exhaust immediate leads, he said, you sit back and wait for the next break that will lead you somewhere else. There is no set time for how long a physical search should continue.

"A lot depends on the circumstances and the information the reporting parties give you," Kolb said. "There are no set circumstances that somebody has to be gone X-number of hours."

The search in January for Ord natives Janelle Hornickel and Michael Wamsley began in Sarpy County when dispatchers received several 911 calls from the couple saying they were lost in a snowstorm. In that case, the search was centered around areas in which the couple believed they might be and areas near cell phone towers that picked up their calls for help.

That case, as well as the case of the missing Indiana woman, Gillming's case and the case of a Central City native who was reported missing in February, all involved volunteers from the general public.

Kolb said the Gillming incident is "indicative of the Nebraska spirit of cooperation and helping out fellow citizens."

He said it's nice to know that, when the need arises, people will leave their regular jobs and go out and help.

Many volunteers who helped search for missing persons in Nebraska this year did so on their own time. That assistance, Kolb said, is invaluable and very much appreciated.

"The number of people that you have betters your ability to cover a tract of land thoroughly so you can make sure you didn't miss anything," Kolb said.

When it comes to how long you should wait before reporting someone missing, Kolb said you need to look at the circumstances. Is it like that person to go somewhere without letting others know, is it like him or her to be late, and would that person call under normal circumstances?

When asked what a person can do to ensure his or her safety, Kolb said, "Be aware of your surroundings. One shouldn't live in fear, and I don't think someone has to live in fear in this part of the country."

If you're going somewhere you're nervous about, Kolb suggests taking a friend along or letting someone know where you'll be and when to expect you back. Take a cell phone with you when you're alone. If you perceive someone who is odd or paying extra attention to you, put yourself in the position to be around a number of people so there would be help readily available if something would happen.

A new clearinghouse designed to track missing adults in Nebraska was launched this month on the Nebraska State Patrol's Web site. Nebraska lawmakers created the Missing Person's Clearinghouse during the 2005 legislative session, with the passage of LB111.

The Nebraska State Patrol will serve as a central repository for information on missing persons. Information gathered is disseminated to assist law enforcement agencies, public and private organizations and the citizens of Nebraska in locating missing persons.

"The patrol has long maintained a database of missing children. The addition of missing adults will allow us to provide information for all Nebraska families searching for a missing loved one," said Col. Bryan Tuma, State Patrol superintendent.

The public can access information on missing persons in Nebraska by logging on to www.nsp.state.ne.us, clicking on "Programs/Services" in the left-hand menu column, then clicking on "NE Missing Persons."

The Nebraska Missing Persons Clearinghouse can be reached by calling (402) 479-4986 or (877) 441-LOST (5678).

Area missing persons cases in the news


Kearney teen Anne Sluti was 17 years old when she was abducted from a mall parking lot in Kearney on April 6, 2001. Witnesses reported the abduction to police. Sluti was held captive for six days by Anthony Zappa, also known as Anthony Steven Wright, a fugitive wanted for various crimes in five other states. Zappa surrendered after a 10-hour standoff with police at a remote cabin in Montana. He was sentenced in September 2002 to life in prison without parole. Sluti was returned safely to her family, and the story was featured on Court TV in 2004.

Jason Anthony Jolkowski of Omaha was 19 years old when he was reported missing. His whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance are still unknown. Jolkowski's grandparents live in Grand Island, and his story was featured on the Montel Williams show in November 2004.

Ord natives Michael Wamsley and Janelle Hornickel, both 20 and of Omaha, got lost in a blizzard in rural Sarpy County in January 2005 and died from exposure to the elements before they could be found. The couple made several calls to 911 for help on Jan. 5. Massive air and ground searches were conducted in the area near Gretna. Wamsley's body was found on Jan. 6, and Hornickel's was found on Jan. 12, at a sandpit southwest of Omaha. The story was featured on ABC's "Primetime Live" in March.

Central City High School graduate Kendra Benham left friends on Feb. 4, 2005, to attend a party near the Southeast Community College-Beatrice campus, where she was a first-year student. She was reported missing on Feb. 7 when she failed to show up for classes. Air and ground searches were conducted in Gage and Jefferson counties, and her body was found on Feb. 10, along with her pickup, in a ravine in Gage County. Her death was ruled an accident.

Bradley Petersen, 28, of Grand Island was reported missing on March 13, 2005, by his wife, who hadn't seen him since he left for work the day before. Authorities tried calling his cell phone, which hit off a tower in rural Howard County. Air and ground searches were conducted, and Petersen was found in his pickup in a Howard County field. He tried to elude law enforcement by driving through fields and pastures but eventually surrendered. A small amount of methamphetamine and marijuana was found in his truck, Nebraska State Patrol Capt. Chris Kolb said.

Jennifer Zachman, 22, of Indiana was reported missing on July 8, 2005. The search for her began on July 14, when a vehicle with Indiana plates was found abandoned and out of gas in Hamilton County. A check of the license plate indicated that Zachman was driving the car. Air and ground searches were conducted in the area, but Zachman was not located. She was found alive by a motorist on Aug. 11. She had apparently been living under an Interstate 80 bridge near Grand Island for weeks.

Gerald "Jerry" Gillming, 52, of Kearney was reported missing by his family on Oct. 21 after disappearing from a rural farm pasture northwest of Gibbon. Air and ground searches were conducted on Oct. 22 and 23, and Gillming was discovered alive in Kansas on Wednesday. Gillming initially said he was abducted by three men and put on a train but later recanted the story. He returned home late Wednesday night in good physical condition. The incident remains under investigation.
Still missing

Name: Jason Anthony Jolkowski

Classification: endangered missing adult

Alias/nickname: J.J.

Date of birth: June 24, 1981

Date missing: June 13, 2001

From city/state: Omaha (His grandparents live in Grand Island.)

Age at time of disappearance: 19

Gender: male

Race: white

Height: 6 feet 1 inch

Weight: 165 pounds

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Complexion: light

Clothing: White Chicago Cubs or Sammy Sosa T-shirt, black dress pants, blue Cubs cap, dress shoes and also carrying red work shirt

Circumstances of disappearance: unknown. Jason was last seen bringing in garbage cans at his residence after pickup. He was leaving to meet a co-worker at the high school only eight blocks away to get a ride to work but never arrived. He has not accessed his bank account and has not cashed checks from his employer.

Investigative agency: Omaha Police Department

Phone: Call (402) 444-5657 if you have any information that may be helpful in this case.

[Gabby]

Kelly


Never ever lose hope... Jason will come home all in GOD'S time...

[Gabby]

Happy Silver Wedding Anniversary Dear Kelly and Jim


May you continue to see each other with stars in your eyes, and Love in your hearts....


Somewhere out there, in either this life or the next, Jason is thinking of you and wishing his parents the same.


GOD Bless you and your years together, both Past and Present.


With much love and Hope...
Gabby

[Gabby]

Bumping for Jason and his loved ones.


Hurry Home Jason...

[Kelly]

Thanks for the anniversary wishes, Gabby.

This is the email I recieved from the people that inquiringminds suggested. It's back one page, I believe.

"Dear Kelly,

Thank you very much for submitting your case to Solvemycase.com. We have received many case submissions and we are carefully reviewing every single one. We will not be able to take on every case, although we wish that we could.

We will contact you within the next 3 weeks' time if we have any additional questions or require further information about your case. If you do not hear from us by December 1, 2005, we will not be able to take on your case at this time, but please know that our thoughts and our hopes for resolution will be with you.

Best Regards,
The Producers
"Private Investigators" "

[ShowerSinger]

Thank you so much for providing those links with the AGE PROGRESSION photo. He is such a handsome young man. I had a brain cramp and couldn't think of the words---age progression. Sorry 'bout that. I hope more people take a look at the photo. Someone, somewhere knows something. Keep up the good work with the media.
Many Hopes and Prayers,
ShowerSinger

[Red Dragon Lady]

Yes, thank you for the opportunity to post an updated poster for Jason. I have a pretty well read bulletin board on the outside of my shop. I will put Jason's poster there with Krista's. This is in Texas but you just never know who might come by. We have many visitors from all over the world come to our little corner of the world.

Please keep me updated on any new info or posters on Jason.

Thanks a million and much love to you and your family.
:blowkiss:

[Breehannah6]

I saw Jasons name as a new post on here and my heart stopped! I thought maybe good news was here at last!
I still feel the same about Jasons absence as I once said , and I think of him and yourself often.
I have no news sadly of Daniel Morcombe it seems to have hit a brickwall, I see his parents in the media and they will never give up looking for him the same as your family with Jason.
It is nearly Christmas and I know this is a hard time for all families of the missing , but I am sure wherever Jason is he will be thinking of his family .
Best Wishes for your anniversary Kelly, and I hope good news comes to you in the near future.
Your Australian Friend (Who is now Director Of Coaching at Soccer!)

[Gabby]

Thanks for the anniversary wishes, Gabby.

This is the email I recieved from the people that inquiringminds suggested. It's back one page, I believe.

"Dear Kelly,

Thank you very much for submitting your case to Solvemycase.com. We have received many case submissions and we are carefully reviewing every single one. We will not be able to take on every case, although we wish that we could.

We will contact you within the next 3 weeks' time if we have any additional questions or require further information about your case. If you do not hear from us by December 1, 2005, we will not be able to take on your case at this time, but please know that our thoughts and our hopes for resolution will be with you.

Best Regards,
The Producers
"Private Investigators" "



If they don't ... just keep on bugging them until they do......

Best wishes and much love,
Gabby

[Kelly]

Someone, somewhere knows something.

Yes, we certainly agree, and we keep looking forever. Someday we hope to find that person or persons. Every effort brings us a step closer to that point. None are in vain.

We thank everyone for their efforts, whether these be of prayer or action. There is a need for all.

Many blessings and thanks to all,
Kelly

[Breehannah6]

I have invited a father of Australian woman Lateeesha Nolan to join us I have put the link to his daughters sad story on another thread missing I think.

I have also given him contact details for Kelly, as its so behind here in Australia when it comes to help and forums we only have victims of crime assoc.
The parents of missing people need daily support not monthly meetings we really need to get someone to start a forum like this one for Australian cases.
I found 1 website and in the guestbook people were very negative to the webmaster saying she is causing distress by putting peoples missing loved ones on the website (I am like ???????????????) .
I think Australia really needs to move with the times and her father agreed and emailed me so hopefully he will get some needed support in here! Cheers again from sunny Oz

[inquiringmindz]

Thanks for the anniversary wishes, Gabby.

This is the email I recieved from the people that inquiringminds suggested. It's back one page, I believe.

"Dear Kelly,

Thank you very much for submitting your case to Solvemycase.com. We have received many case submissions and we are carefully reviewing every single one. We will not be able to take on every case, although we wish that we could.

We will contact you within the next 3 weeks' time if we have any additional questions or require further information about your case. If you do not hear from us by December 1, 2005, we will not be able to take on your case at this time, but please know that our thoughts and our hopes for resolution will be with you.

Best Regards,
The Producers
"Private Investigators" "
Oh Kelly, I was so excited when I read this! I'll keep praying they air Jason's story. BTW, I've hung up the age progression photos of Jason in IA. I'm praying about that too :blowkiss:

Keep the faith!
Jennifer

[Kelly]

Thanks, Jennifer...you're a sweetheart!

Kelly

[petra]

Thinking of Jason this morning as I brought our trash cans back up towards our house.

Prayers for Jason, Kelly and family.

[Kelly]

A Project Jason Press Release:

Students Arrange Over 1,500 Adoptions of Missing Persons


Omaha, NE, November 16, 2005--Sometimes, it seems as if there are few feel-good stories in the news about missing persons. Many of the stories covered would give the indication that there are only victims in the wake of this tragedy. These stories are viewed and often then discarded in the minds of the public. The viewers are detached from the situation, safe in their homes with their families beside them. Their involvement may end with those few seconds on the screen.

Rarely are we treated to a story that portrays hope for these left-behind families. How often do we witness someone becoming involved who has no personal tie to any missing persons or their families? This story, and the people who made it happen, accomplish both objectives: becoming involved and giving hope to the families of the missing.

In 2004, 20 year-old Danae Leali, a creative writing major at Ashland University in Ohio, heard about a unique awareness program for missing people called Adopt a Missing Person. The program is one in which photo buttons of missing persons from across the country are given to persons who wish to "adopt" that missing person, wear their button, and share their story. She, and a friend, Vanessa Wagner, were moved to take action. The two launched a campaign to get other students at the college involved. They succeeded in arranging for 432 adoptions of missing persons with students and staff at Ashland. The campaign culminated with an all day prayer vigil and remembrance for these missing persons.

Danae was not finished with the project, however. She wanted to see it expand to other schools and grow. She and Vanessa made plans to do a second campaign in 2005. They also worked behind the scenes to get other schools to participate, and in fact, just returned from a nationwide conference for residence hall associations. Vanessa stated: "These missing persons are real people, with hopes and dreams, family and friends, futures and pasts. Deep down I feel that most people want to change the world for the better and if they can start off with a simple project like this, it is one step in the right direction."

Danae's goal was to double last year's campaign number. The 2005 campaign ended with 4 participating schools and an astounding 1,511 adoptions of missing persons secured. Danae and Vanessa's campaign at Ashland University netted 1,380 adoptions. 25 adoptions were made at the University of Akron, and 106 at Loudonville High School. The Westlake High School Key Club is also participating, but with a later campaign date.

Danae had more than tripled last year's numbers, and has no intention of this being the last campaign: "That's what I want. It's beginning. Nobody really knows how far this could go...It's an important topic. It's something that's getting the media's attention, and it needs to be bigger."

On Wednesday, November 16th, Danae and Vanessa will proudly don their buttons, along with the other 1,511 persons who opened their hearts to help families they've never met, many of whom are thousands of miles away. They will hold an all day vigil at the Ashland University campus chapel, starting at 9am and culminating with a brief ceremony at 8:30pm. Giant greeting cards will be posted, one for each family of the missing, so that attendees can express their thoughts of hope. These will be sent to the families after the vigil. The press and public are invited and encouraged to attend.

The Adopt a Missing Person program was created by nonprofit organization, Project Jason, which assists families of missing persons and provides education for the public. Families of the missing provide photo buttons of their missing loved one and a personal biography, so that people all over the country can help by "adopting" their missing loved one. Adopters pledge to wear the button and share the story with others to increase the odds of location, and give hope to the families.

Kelly Jolkowski, mother of missing Jason Jolkowski, and founder of Project Jason, explains the impact of the program: "After the police have sifted through the clues in a missing person's case, and have no more leads, what the family has left is hope and awareness. The Adopt a Missing Person program enables people to be able to give these priceless gifts to the families. It helps them get through another day without their loved ones, knowing that a stranger cares. You just never know. The next person to see their face, may hold the key to unlock the mystery of their disappearance and be the catalyst that reunites a family."

To find out additional information about the Adopt a Missing Person program, please see www.projectjason.org, and click on the Adopt a Missing Person link. All of the featured missing persons on the campaign can be found on this site, along with links to additional information about these cases.


Contacts:


Danae Leali
Ashland University

Vanessa Wagner
Ashland University

Kelly Jolkowski
President and Founder
Project Jason
402-932-0095
Kelly.jolkowski@projectjason.org

Mike Block
University of Akron
Akron, OH


Rose Kerr, Teacher
Loudonville High School
Loudonville, OH

Westlake High School Key Club
Westlake, OH
Su Gao, Campaign Head

####

[Kelly]

http://www.wmfd.com/newsboard/single.asp?Story=21624

Ashland University's 2nd annual adopt a missing person project


Ashland University's 2nd annual adopt a missing person project was held on November 16th. About thirteen hundred students, faculty and staff members participated in the event by wearing pins with a picture of one of the twenty-four missing persons the University has adopted. A candlelight vigil was also held in the lower level of Ashland University's Memorial Chapel. Students had the opportunity to sign giant cards with messages of hope to the families of missing persons. For information on how you can get involved in the adopt a missing person project visit www.projectjason.org.

[Kelly]

There is a video on this link that's really excellent. It won't be up for long, an d it doesn't appear they archive videos.

http://www.onnnews.com/Global/category.asp?C=49367&nav=menu241_1

Go to "Featured Videos" and then to "Students Remember Missing Persons".

Kelly

[inquiringmindz]

Thinking of Jason and your family this Thanksgiving. Praying you find the answers you seek.

[Gabby]

Bumping for Jason, those who love him and those who pray for his return...

[Kelly]

Jason's photo and information will be shown on the Nancy Grace Show on CNN Headline News on December 16th.

Hope is like a candle burning in the darkness, lighting the way.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[PrayersForMaura]

Jason's photo and information will be shown on the Nancy Grace Show on CNN Headline News on December 16th.

Hope is like a candle burning in the darkness, lighting the way.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org (http://www.projectjason.org/)
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

This is great news. I'll be watching.
Prayers for Jason. May some answers come to the forefront, and may peace be around Jason ~wherever he may be ~ and his family.
I hope & pray that someone sees and knows something.

[Gabby]

Jason's photo and information will be shown on the Nancy Grace Show on CNN Headline News on December 16th.

Hope is like a candle burning in the darkness, lighting the way.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/



Wonderful News Kelly, Congratulations on finally getting him the exposure!

[petra]

This is great news. I'll be watching.
Prayers for Jason. May some answers come to the forefront, and may peace be around Jason ~wherever he may be ~ and his family.
I hope & pray that someone sees and knows something.
Kelly...great to hear that Jason's story will be on NG on 16 Dec. I look forward to reading the transcirpts.

Thanks for the happy pictures of little Erik on your blog. What a joyful ending to a long nightmare!

Kudos for all your relentless work you do for the missing and their families.

[Kelly]

Thank you so much!

Jason won't be on the transcripts, other then the brief mention and show of his photo. It is not a full segment. Exposure is exposure, and we are grateful for it.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[Kelly]

We remember Jason, gone 4 1/2 years today.

[Casshew]

Kelly http://www.casshew.com/15.gif


.

[Kelly]

http://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/2073506.html
(with video)

Vigil Of Hope
Family tries to keep awareness alive


A Tuesday evening candle-light vigil of remembrance for Amber Harris sparks hope for the family of the 12-year-old girl last seen two weeks ago at 20th and Pinkney.

One mother at the vigil understands what the Harris family is going through.

Kelly Jolkowski's son disappeared four and a half years ago.

"There are a lot of emotions," she said. "Guilt, anger…very normal things and that's what we help families deal with."

Jolkowski's son Jason was 19 when he vanished on June 13, 2001. He was on his way to meet a friend in Benson for a ride to work.

His photo is just below that of Amber Harris' on the Nebraska page of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

He's listed as missing with a composite picture of what he might look like today.

Harris is labeled as an endangered runaway.

"These people are going through an awful time now," Jolkowski said.

Her family didn't have many places to turn for help, so they founded projectjason.org to do for others what wasn't done for them.

Jolkowski says the goal is to help people remember the person is still missing and keep their story alive.

The vigil was one way the family can keep up the awareness.

Jolkowski says the next step is to broaden the wings of the story and use the resources to get the national media involved.

The Tuesday after Thanksgiving, November 29, is the last night anyone saw Amber.

She was getting off the school bus. Late on Wednesday, November 30, Omaha police issued their first call for the public's help but insist they suspect no foul play.

On Sunday, December 4, police were going door-to-door searching the neighborhood for clues.

The family announced a reward fund on December 6, but no new leads emerged.

Police searched with a helicopter December 11 with no luck.

The reward fund doubled to $2,000 the next day thanks to efforts of friends.

Police continue to ask for help from anyone who may know anything about Amber's whereabouts. Anyone with information should call 402-444-5656.

[Amraann]

Just thinking of you today Kelly and Jason (and yours)


Your such an inspiration and a help to so very many. I am in aww by all you do.

Hugs sweetie!

[petra]

Jason's photo and information will be shown on the Nancy Grace Show on CNN Headline News on December 16th.

Hope is like a candle burning in the darkness, lighting the way.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org (http://www.projectjason.org/)
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/
Kelly, thinking of you and yours today.
Prayers and thoughts are with you.

[Bobbisangel]

Saw Jason's pic and info on Nancy Grace last night. I hope lots of tips come in as a result of it being shown.

[Casshew]

Hi Kelly, hoping for a Christmas Miracle & new leads on your Son.

Take Care and know that you are much admired & respected for what you do.

[mysteriew]

Hi Kelly, hoping for a Christmas Miracle & new leads on your Son.

Take Care and know that you are much admired & respected for what you do.

I second that.

[Gabby]

Bumping for Jason.... his parents and others who continue to search for him... Jason, wherever you are,please know you are loved and prayers are being sent out for your safe return home...

[Kelly]

5 Christmases without Jason now. We miss him and love him.

Merry Christmas wherever you are, Jason.

Love,
Mom

[PonderingThings]

Kelly your story is heartbreaking... I hope one day you find your missing son! http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/frown.gif

Meanwhile you have brought a great deal of comfort, and changes for families who have also have a missing loved one. Thank you for all your efforts! http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/clap.gif

[murraydwyer]

Kelly...thank you for all you do, you have accomplished so much in such a short time to raise awareness about missing persons and their families.

[Kelly]

Thank you.

All I do is write or say a few words. I also pray for guidance and continued patience as we wait for our own answers.

Merry Christmas to one and all.

Kelly

[concernedperson]

Thank you.

All I do is write or say a few words. I also pray for guidance and continued patience as we wait for our own answers.

Merry Christmas to one and all.

Kelly

I am thinking of you and praying for resolve. You are a guiding light for so many and tonight I am sending you giant hugs and know that we are always here and always on alert. People pray for you always...you just don't know about it. Bless your heart and your unending search for the answers.

[Kelly]

The support of all of you means so much. It keeps me going. I thank you.

[englishleigh]

Kelly, I'm praying that 2006 will be the year your family finds out what happened to Jason, or that he comes home safely.

Hugs to all of you, and continued prayers!!

[Kelly]

I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who prayed for me and my family over the holidays. We made it through ok and are back at work for the cause.

Hugs across the miles,
Kelly

[KatherineQ]

Kelly, God bless you. My oldest son would remind you of Jason.

Through your efforts, you've helped so many, Kelly.

*all we are is dust in the wind*

Some day you will reunite with Jason's spirit. So many of us carry his sweet smiling face in our memories, and see him in our sons.

[inquiringmindz]

Just thinking of Jason and his family today...
:blowkiss:

[Kelly]

Bumping from many pages back for those who don't know Jason and for those who do, prompting for a prayer.

A mother's love is a very powerful force.

Kelly

[concernedperson]

Kelly, I think about you all the time and send many prayers your way. Your heroic efforts affect so many. I just know others have been helped and this will help you.

[PonderingThings]

Kelly have there been any recent leads? Are authorities "looking hard" at anyone? Have you received and new avenues to investigate?

Jason has such a "presence" in the now well known photograph of him. It just seems inconceivable that anyone that knows what happened isn't somehow getting word to you!

[Kelly]

Thanks, CP, and my other friends of the missing here at WS.

In answer to PT's question, think Fred Murray.

I have given LE things to check out. I never hear from them. It has been months. I try to be patient. They say they are working or worked on what I gave them. I have to trust they are, because I cannot force them to prove it as the case records are closed to me. I cannot take them to court if I chose to because I am not a person of any means.

Since I also cannot afford a good PI, I have to trust they really are checking these things. If I alienate them permanently in some kind of records battle, (assuming I could) then I am on my own to play PI, and that is not a good option.

So many families of missing adults are in the same boat, or worse. At least in my case, they did a fairly thorough investigation in the beginning. Many get no help at all.

Kelly

[concernedperson]

Thanks, CP, and my other friends of the missing here at WS.

In answer to PT's question, think Fred Murray.

I have given LE things to check out. I never hear from them. It has been months. I try to be patient. They say they are working or worked on what I gave them. I have to trust they are, because I cannot force them to prove it as the case records are closed to me. I cannot take them to court if I chose to because I am not a person of any means.

Since I also cannot afford a good PI, I have to trust they really are checking these things. If I alienate them permanently in some kind of records battle, (assuming I could) then I am on my own to play PI, and that is not a good option.

So many families of missing adults are in the same boat, or worse. At least in my case, they did a fairly thorough investigation in the beginning. Many get no help at all.

Kelly

I understand and sympathize with you. In my case no one will ever look as it is not something that they can spend dollars on. And I don't have any.But, I know the police are aware and if one odd thing happens they will look. Of course, it will be too late.

[Kelly]

CP, what is your case? Forgive me if I should know and have forgotten.

[KatherineQ]

Your story is so sad, and powerful.

I can't help but think of doctors, when my children have some difficult to diagnose illness, they tune you out. They stop listening, and stop caring, and they even stop believing you when you have something to add once several good attempts at treating and understanding the problem don't work.

It seems like if your problem isn't clear cut and solveable, the professionals walk away.

I think we all understand that mentality, but it hurts so much when its you and you need help.

Prayers for Jason.

[Kelly]

Your analogy is dead on. Towards the beginning, I asked if Sex Offenders (SO) could possibly have anything to do with it, and was told no, this is not their m.o.

At a conference I attended last April, I met some higher level LE who told me that is not true and should be checked out. I came back home and requested the list of SO in the area at that time and was told that was not possible, as those records were not kept. I insisted they must be kept and pushed them to check again. They again said no. I went back to my LE helpers and they said "nonsense", so I tried again. Low and behold if they didn't get the records!

They wouldn't give them to me of course, as the list is now a part of the case records. I also have to trust they are actually even looking at the list and doing anything with it at all.

[PonderingThings]

Kelly I read your update and my heart is breaking at your struggle. You just have to keep believing that LE is working on Jason's case. Perhaps they are not sharing some of the details with you because they don't want information to leak out? It might not seem like it from your perspective, but sometimes investigations are held very close to LE chests.

Sometims you just have to believe....

Keep on doing what you're doing.

[dulcinea]

Your analogy is dead on. Towards the beginning, I asked if Sex Offenders (SO) could possibly have anything to do with it, and was told no, this is not their m.o.

At a conference I attended last April, I met some higher level LE who told me that is not true and should be checked out. I came back home and requested the list of SO in the area at that time and was told that was not possible, as those records were not kept. I insisted they must be kept and pushed them to check again. They again said no. I went back to my LE helpers and they said "nonsense", so I tried again. Low and behold if they didn't get the records!

They wouldn't give them to me of course, as the list is now a part of the case records. I also have to trust they are actually even looking at the list and doing anything with it at all.

You don't have access to a list of sex offenders in your area? When I lived in MI I used to check the Internet list every once in a while. I could view all listed SOs by the entire state or just search my neighborhood. I thought that was public knowledge in every state. If it isn't, it should be.

[Kelly]

You don't have access to a list of sex offenders in your area? When I lived in MI I used to check the Internet list every once in a while. I could view all listed SOs by the entire state or just search my neighborhood. I thought that was public knowledge in every state. If it isn't, it should be.

Yes, we have access to a list of SO. WHat I was talking about was going back 4 years and getting a list of SO who lived in the area at that time. That was the difficulty.

PT: I will not give up...no way. I understand LE must keep things from the public eye. I just wish I had a way to know they truly are working on it. I can only trust them and hope that they are.

Thank you!

Kelly

[Gmommy]

Kelly,
I am so amazed at your spirit, that you work so hard to locate Jason yet you still find the time to give hope to others going through similar circumstances.

I hope you find Jason, the sooner the better. My heart goes out to you and your family-the not knowing has got to take it's toll on you.

Bless you,
Kat

[Kelly]

Thanks, Kat.

My work is a healing of sorts, too.

[inquiringmindz]

Bumping For Jason - Come Home Soon

[Kelly]

The following is a piece you can copy and paste into an email and send to your friends:

"Your assistance is needed for an email campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to ask the Omaha, NE CBS affiliate, KM3, to move the Missing show to a better timeslot. Missing is a 30 minute syndicated show which features profiles of missing persons from all over the USA. (see www.usamissing.com)

Missing is currently on the programming schedule at 4:30am on Saturdays. In order for a show like this to be effective, it needs to be moved to a better timeframe. Finding missing persons is more important than generic, repeated news and infommercials. It's a proven fact that the more people see the face of the missing person, the greater the odds of location.

Two missing persons from Omaha will be featured on the Missing show in the near future. Jason Jolkowski's information will be shown on March 4th. Missing Amber Harris' profile is scheduled for the March 11th show.

We need your help to communicate the importance of a better airtime for the Missing show. Please write to KM3 and ask them to move this show to increase the odds for Amber and Jason. More viewers equals increased potential to solve these cases and bring them home to their loved ones.

KM3's email address is feedback@action3news.com

Thank you."

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Peabody]

The following is a piece you can copy and paste into an email and send to your friends:

"Your assistance is needed for an email campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to ask the Omaha, NE CBS affiliate, KM3, to move the Missing show to a better timeslot. Missing is a 30 minute syndicated show which features profiles of missing persons from all over the USA. (see www.usamissing.com (http://www.usamissing.com/))

Missing is currently on the programming schedule at 4:30am on Saturdays. In order for a show like this to be effective, it needs to be moved to a better timeframe. Finding missing persons is more important than generic, repeated news and infommercials. It's a proven fact that the more people see the face of the missing person, the greater the odds of location.

Two missing persons from Omaha will be featured on the Missing show in the near future. Jason Jolkowski's information will be shown on March 4th. Missing Amber Harris' profile is scheduled for the March 11th show.

We need your help to communicate the importance of a better airtime for the Missing show. Please write to KM3 and ask them to move this show to increase the odds for Amber and Jason. More viewers equals increased potential to solve these cases and bring them home to their loved ones.

KM3's email address is feedback@action3news.com

Thank you."

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org (http://www.projectjason.org/)
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/
Kelly,

Does it matter if the email is from out of state?

I will be glad to assist, but not sure if the television station will be responsive to us outside of their viewing area.

Please let us know.

Prayers for Jason

[Kelly]

Thanks for the offer. Theoretically, they would only be interested in responses from the viewing area, but others could carry some weight, and it may be possible that the person who filters these messages does not notice that the sender is not from the area, based upon their email address.

If a person is willing to send the email, I say "fire away".

P., I am so sorry I forgot Maura's two year date. I was out of town and realized it upon my return. I know you are close to the family.

With Hope,
Kelly

[Peabody]

Thanks for the offer. Theoretically, they would only be interested in responses from the viewing area, but others could carry some weight, and it may be possible that the person who filters these messages does not notice that the sender is not from the area, based upon their email address.

If a person is willing to send the email, I say "fire away".

P., I am so sorry I forgot Maura's two year date. I was out of town and realized it upon my return. I know you are close to the family.

With Hope,
Kelly
Dear Kelly,

You have been such a huge help to the Murrays and the Rausches that I am sure that no apology is necessary.

I was aware that you were out of town with the possibilty of little to no internet on 2/9 - I am sure that they were aware also. I know they feel a special closeness to you and to Jason.

P ~

[Kelly]

Thank you so much. Please send them my love and well wishes.

[Kelly]

http://www.ketv.com/news/7055771/detail.html

Web Site Aims To Bring Missing Home
Patrol Creates Missing Persons' Clearinghouse

POSTED: 5:11 pm CST February 14, 2006
UPDATED: 5:24 pm CST February 14, 2006


OMAHA, Neb. -- The Nebraska State Patrol is working to make it easier to bring missing persons home with a missing persons clearinghouse Web site that went online last month. Now, weekly updates go out from the patrol to the media on new cases in the state.

Investigators said the Web site is still a work in progress, but they believe it's one more way to help the missing.

"We update the Web site as soon as we get the information," said the patrol's Lt. John Shelton.

Shelton said the site has all the current missing persons in the state. Some include a photo. All of them give a physical description of the person, their age and other data.


"It's going to give basic information as to the events on the disappearance of the person," Shelton said.

Included on the site are some names ripped from the headlines, including Brendan Gonzalez, Amber Harris and Jason Jolkowski. Kelly Jolkowski, Jason's mother, was instrumental in making sure the need for the clearinghouse was clear to Nebraska lawmakers. She helped push through LB 111.

"Once the law went into effect, that gave us some resources to create all this," Shelton said.

The patrol is working with families of the missing to get more photos online. The tool has high hopes behind it as families work to bring loved ones home.

"Anytime you get more eyes on from the public, it can help us get that information out better, and that many more eyes looking for that person may lead to a resolution to the case," Shelton said.

The Nebraska State Patrol had a missing persons clearinghouse before LB 111, but it contained just children, and the public did not have access.

[PonderingThings]

This is great news! Thanks for sharing the info!

[bykerladi]

*bump*-ing for Jason


Kelly, have you ever heard back from the Solvemycase.com people?

[Kelly]

No, which, according to their original email back to me, means they aren't interested. I've heard nothing at all about this show from anyone. Maybe they aren't going to do it at all.

Thanks for asking and for the bump.

Kelly

[Kelly]

Today marks the start of the Project Jason Voice for the Missing blog series entitled "Psychics and Missing People". You will find the link in my signature.

There is not one proven case in which a psychic, using special powers or abilities not given to the typical person, has located a missing person, whether dead or alive. It may be possible that some persons have an ability that defies science and logic, but there is no known scientific evidence of this. These persons re-victimize families by taking away hope where it should stand, and giving hope where there is none. No person has the right to do this to another.

The goal of this series is to is to demonstrate to families of the missing the methods used by these persons. Understanding what goes on behind the scenes should decrease any guilt feelings for not accepting offers of "help" from these persons, whether it is fee-based or not. We want to lessen the pain already present in our every breath, and arm families with the information to defend themselves against these persons.

In reading the series you will discover how psychics do an excellent job of convincing you that their guesses derive from special powers or the aid of other worldly spirits. You will learn the methods they use and be able to spot those upon observance. If you believe in the claims of psychics, but are open to logic and science, you will not feel the same about them after this series.

Please note that the mission statement of Project Jason includes assistance for families of the missing. We do not exist to prove or disprove paranormal claims. The blog will provide a link where you may go to discuss your viewpoint if you wish. We are unable to discuss this with you, as that detracts from the time we need to spend helping the families of the missing.

Thank you.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Kelly]

http://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/2446227.html

Amber Search Escalates
New tools put to use


Pictures of Amber Harris have been all over television, newspapers and the Internet. Now her picture and her story are going on the road.

Semi trucks make up a lot of the traffic we see on the interstate. Now, along with their cargo, truck drivers can take Amber's story and picture with them.

Project Jason teamed with Through the Gears, a free magazine for truck drivers, to make this possible.

Each month they put a missing person on the cover hoping truck drivers will spread the story. This is Amber's month on the front cover. Inside, there is a page devoted to information about the missing 12-year-old from Omaha.

Kelly Jolkowski has been working with the Harris family since the week Amber disappeared. She's the driving force behind Project Jason named for her son who disappeared as an adult five years ago.

On Friday night, Jolkowski and the Harris family announced several new initiatives to keep the search for the missing girl moving forward.

Aside from the magazine there's Project Jason's Adopt a Missing Person campaign. They'll send Amber's bio and her picture on a pin to anyone who wants it. They're also encouraging people to Download amber's poster and keep putting it up.

Jolkowski says, "The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has a poster campaign. Their stats are very good for having the person be found because of seeing the person on a poster. I believe they're running about 60%, which is very high."

Amber's father, Michael Harris says, "We're just trying to use every resource we can to bring our daughter home."

Amber's mother, Melissa Harris adds that, "I want her face embedded in people's minds; her pretty face. We don't want anyone to forget her face. Even after she's found, I'm going to work with Kelly. I'm not going to stop."

While still searching for their children, Harris and Jolkowski want the state to keep doing more for the hundreds of people listed as missing in Nebraska.

Jolkowski was instrumental in passing a law that created the state's new missing person clearing house Web site. They both want to know why there are only a handful of pictures on the site.

Jolkowski says, "That was never the intent of the law - just some text. It was photos too. I just don't understand why it would take so long to get the photos."

According to the state patrol's Web site, 168 people are listed as missing in Omaha alone. That includes Amber Harris. There is a substantial reward for information leading to Amber.

[Kelly]

http://www.kptm.com/news/local/2446217.html

The Search Continues
More help for the family of missing 12 year-old Amber Harris.

And it comes from someone that can relate to their experience.

Kelly Jolkowski heads up “Project Jason” in memory of her son.

Jason Jolkowski disappeared back in 2001.

The Jolkowski's and Harris’s have teamed up to give Amber more attention by getting her picture and story out across the nation.

This is the face that the Harris' never want you to forget.

“I'm glad she's out there I want her embedded in people's mind,” says Amber’s mother Melissa Harris.

The first way is through the 18 Wheel Angel Program where posters are printed from the Project Jason’s website at projectjason.org.

“The program is geared towards truck drivers but we also highly encourage anyone and everyone to come to our website,” says Kelly Jolkowski of Project Jason.

So far, in it's first two years, this program has helped post over 40,000 posters of missing people.

Another place you'll find Amber's photo is in this month's “Through the Gears Magazine,” which reaches over 150,000 people.

Project Jason is also helping to find Amber and others through its Adopt a Missing Person Program.

If people want to adopt a person they can visit the project Jason website and click on the “adopt a missing person” link.

Once they submit their information they'll receive a button and biography telling the missing persons story.

“We ask them to pledge to wear there button whether its on their coat their blouse their purse their backpack,” Jolkowski says.

Kelly Jolkowski says the adoption program helps keep the missing cases fresh in peoples minds.

“They will take ownership they will want to continue to wear that button they will want to find out what's going on,” adds Jolkowski.

According to the Center for Missing and Exploited Children, this type of publicity is quite successful.

“Their stats are very good for the person having been found because of seeing their face on a poster, I believe they're running at about 60 percent,” says Jolkowski.

The Harris' are just thankful to have such a helpful resource in Omaha.

“We want to use every resource we can to bring our daughter back home,” Amber’s father Michael Harris says.

Another vigil is planned for Amber this Tuesday at Trinty Church at 156th and Dodge Street starting at 7 p.m.

And Amber’s case will get more national exposure. America's Most Wanted is planning a trip to Omaha sometime this month to produce a story about the missing teen.

[Kelly]

http://www.ketv.com/family/8026095/detail.html

Prayer Service Held For Harris

POSTED: 10:29 am CST March 15, 2006
UPDATED: 10:38 am CST March 15, 2006


OMAHA, Neb. -- There was a prayer service for a missing Omaha girl on Tuesday night.

Dozens of people attended the service at Trinity Church, near 156th Street and West Dodge Road for Amber Harris.

Harris' parents believe every vigil makes a difference in their quest to bring their daughter home, they said.

Kelly Jolkowski was at the event. Her son, Jason, is still missing, and she said she understands the Harris' crusade.

"This child belongs to the whole community," Jolkowski said. "Everyone should be pitching in no matter what part of town they live in. We're all one community."

A national TV show will be in town next week to profile the Harris case.

The 12-year-old was last seen on Nov. 29. If you have information about where she is, call (800) 78-CRIME or (402) 444-5600.

[inquiringmindz]

As always, thinking of Jason and his family.
Come home soon.

[Kelly]

We're hoping this Columbia News Service Article gets picked up by newspapers all over the country. Jason's photo is front and center, which made me quite happy.

Here is an excerpt:

"It used to be that the faces of missing people showed up primarily on milk cartons and the occasional poster stapled to a telephone pole. But today Internet sites are proving to be an increasingly valuable resource for family members desperate to locate a loved one.

The FBI estimates that there are nearly 50,000 active missing adult cases in the United States. And according to the Department of Justice, nearly 800,000 children are currently missing. Today, with the help of technology like the Internet, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children estimates the recovery rate for missing children at 94 percent, up from 62 percent 15 years ago.

When 19-year-old Jason Jolkowski took out the trash at his parent’s Omaha, Neb., home one June morning in 2001 and disappeared, the police thought he had probably run away, but his parents were confident something else had happened.
“We didn’t know what to do,” said Jason’s mother, Kelly Jolkowski. “We wasted valuable time at the beginning. Time is the huge enemy for a missing person’s family.”

Kelly Jolkowski went online and discovered that her home state did not list missing people on its Web site, and there was little information available to guide people on what to do when a loved one goes missing. Out of frustration and a desire to help others in the same situation, the family founded the nonprofit organization Project Jason.

The group’s Web site features photos of missing people with information about their disappearances, links to resources for families and a section that allows people to “adopt” a missing person by wearing buttons with their photos. Project Jason also started a program in which truck drivers can download and print out posters of the missing to post as they cross the country. Jolkowski estimates that at least 40,000 posters have been distributed since January.

“I consider our success to be the things we do to give the families of missing hope to keep going on,” she said. “It lets them know people care, and that people are taking action for their missing loved one.”

When a loved one goes missing, Jolkowski says, many people incorrectly assume that law enforcement officials will take care of distributing posters, contacting media and spreading the word nationally.

“That’s not their job,” Jolkowski said. “It seems unfair that you’re going through this horrible thing and you have to do all these other steps, but you do.”


http://jscms.jrn.columbia.edu/cns/2006-04-04/lemoult-missingpeople

[PonderingThings]

http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/clap.gif

May you get a lead on Jason's case soon http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/blowkises.gif

[Juliana]

Kelly,
For some reason I couldn't sleep last night, thinking about you and your family. I can't imagine how difficult this has been for you. I pray that your find answers soon. God bless you for everything you are going through and everything you are doing to help other families.

[bakerprune64]

Kelly,
Thinking of you all today.
J

[czechmate7]

Kelly,
What does LE consider Jason's case to be...runaway, endangered missing? Are they still investigating? Have you gotten any leads, sightings? Prayers to you and your family.

[PonderingThings]

There is an actor out there... I don't know his name... he used to play a lawyer on NYPD Blue, and another lawyer on Law & Order. Most recently he played an "appeal lawyer" on the Death Row episode of Criminal Minds.

To me he ALWAYS reminds me of Jason. The resemblence is there but its not really overwhelming, as this actor is much older than Jason, but whenever I see him I always think "There's Jason".

Odd eh....

[SadieJane]

PonderingThings, I think I know who you're talking about. His name is Michael B. Silver (you can look at his photo on his IMDB page) and he does bear a slight resemblance to Jason. I think it's in the eyes and the shape of his face.

[PonderingThings]

Thanks SadieJane! Michael B. Silver is who I was talking about!
http://ia.imdb.com/media/imdb/01/I/84/96/59p.jpg

[Kelly]

Thanks, everyone.

I was curious about this actor, so I went and looked, and I agree that there is a resemblance. My mom also says that singer Josh Groban reminds her of Jason.

Jason is considered endangered missing with LE, although at first, he was listed as a runaway. LE doesn't really do much proactive, as there isn't much more they can do. He is listed in the major crimes unit.

It seems like we don't get too many leads these days, or at least none I hear about.

Many blessings to you and your families,
Kelly

[PonderingThings]

http://froogle.google.com/base_image?size=2&q=music/image/0/0marEhaC1evG.jpg
Josh Groban... yep I see it!

[Gabby]

Prayers to you and your family.... I think of you and Jason and offer prayers daily...

[czechmate7]

Thanks, everyone.

I was curious about this actor, so I went and looked, and I agree that there is a resemblance. My mom also says that singer Josh Groban reminds her of Jason.

Jason is considered endangered missing with LE, although at first, he was listed as a runaway. LE doesn't really do much proactive, as there isn't much more they can do. He is listed in the major crimes unit.

It seems like we don't get too many leads these days, or at least none I hear about.

Many blessings to you and your families,
KellyKelly,
Were there ever any leads on Jason's case (maybe when he first went missing)? Other missing young men in the area? Any witnesses? Any problems with people at his work? Sexual predators in the area? I'm sure every thread of info has been checked out....but there has to be someone who saw something....would there have been lots of folks around the neighborhood at the time Jason was abducted?

[Kelly]

Kelly,
Were there ever any leads on Jason's case (maybe when he first went missing)? Other missing young men in the area? Any witnesses? Any problems with people at his work? Sexual predators in the area? I'm sure every thread of info has been checked out....but there has to be someone who saw something....would there have been lots of folks around the neighborhood at the time Jason was abducted?

Not really on the leads....a couple of unconfirmed leads. No one else missing. The neighbor also saw Jason in the driveway. All of the neighbors in the area were questioned, but probably too late to remember. No problems at work...they were all questioned more than once, too. Sexual predators...I was told by LE that that had no bearing. I learned a year ago from some high level LE this isn't true, so I asked this to be checked out. Nothing has come of it at this point.

Thanks for asking and caring.

Kelly

[SadieJane]

Hi, Kelly, I spoke to my little brother today and was reminded of Jason's case. He is nineteen, the same age as Jason, and he also has learning disabilities-- not the ones that Jason struggled with, but my brother was often regarded as "weird" or "stupid" by other kids who didn't understand that he communicated in a different way.
It set me to wondering what Jason's school years were like. Was he ever picked on or bullied by other kids? Would he have confided to you or another family member if he had been? Did he have any close friends from school, and have they stayed in touch with your family?
Was anything else going on at the high school the day of Jason's disappearance? If he had only been out of high school a year (?), it's possibly he could have run into current students who remembered him and may have viewed him as an easy target for harassment. Has this angle ever been considered?
I read your blog every week, and I am always amazed by your strength and determination. I know Jason is very proud of you and the rest of his family.

[Kelly]

Hello,

Jason went to 2 different high schools, splitting his HS years between them. The one he went to last was the rough one, and yes, he was bullied. He had a few friends there, who were questioned. I suppose it is possible that some bullies harrassed him, or worse. It was summer though, and school was out, so even if it was school kids, one cannot question every single kid in a school with over a thousand. It still boils down to someone telling what they know. We did have a student who passed out posters of him to the other students the next school year. I don't know if this was seriously considered, but there really isn't a practical way to investigate an entire student body. Somebody just needs to tell what they know. That's what it boils down to.

Thank you for your kindness and caring. Hug your 19 year-old for me, please.

Many blessings to you and yours,

[PonderingThings]

Kelly I'm curious to know if you ever checked out the Johnny Gosch story. His mother swears there is a pedophile ring, based in Nebraska, that consist of many high profile people. She seems to think its still operational.

Some of the story is really bizarre - but then so are a great many missing child cases!

Jason would appear to have been a little old.... but then again....

Johnny's mother's website is here http://www.johnnygosch.com/

[Kelly]

I know that story, too. I don't know how much of it is true. I have been told by several reputable persons in the know that his mother is not right, if you know what I mean. I was told it was a fabrication of her mind that he came home and visited her, etc. I have mentioned this story to my LE in the past.

[PonderingThings]

Yes sadly that does appear to be the case....

[Kelly]

The last story about psychics in Jason's case is being posted. You can read part I here: http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2006/04/42706-pmp-bitter-end-part-i.html

Part II is also posted. The series on Psychics and Missing People is winding down. I hope it was helpful to our target audience in letting them (families of the missing) know they don't need to subject themselves to this nonsense. I also hope it helped other readers understand what really goes on behind the scenes.

The families who are still doing this out of guilt still have no answers. They only have wasted time, resources, broken hearts and spirits.

It's not the answer for you. Faith and trust in God (and good detective work) is the only real answer.

For those who may have missed it, the series starts here: Psychics and Missing People (http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2006/03/30606-pmp-introduction-to-psychics-and.html)

With hope for all of our missing loved ones,
Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Kelly]

http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/2759506.html

Miles For The Missing

Bike ride keeps memories of missing children alive


An annual bike ride called "Miles For The Missing" is making sure missing children will never be forgotten.

Grief brought on by the mysterious disappearance of three teens is why family members, and supporters gathered in Council Bluffs Sunday.

November of 2005 is the last time anyone saw 12-year-old Amber Harris.

"Without these extra resources, we wouldn't have known to do anything but just put out fliers and just look all the time," said Melissa Harris, Amber's mom.

July of 2004 is the last time anyone saw 17-year-old Ashley Martinez of Saint Joseph Missouri.

"We have not heard a word. It's been a nightmare," said Tammy Navinsky. "I don't know how you want to describe it. We spend every day trying to get on the Web sites, trying to find organizations to help."

Jason Jolkowski, 19, of Omaha vanished in June of 2001.

"It's an ongoing trauma. It's also a process of grief that you get stuck in because you don't really know," said Kelly Jolkowski, Jason's mother. "What am I grieving for? Am I grieving because someone's deceased? Am I grieving because they went away from us?"

Project Jason, a support system for families of missing children, sponsors the event in which bikers ride from one to 44 miles.

Kelly Jolkowski, the founder of Project Jason set up Sunday's bike ride.

[Kelly]

Four Years and eleven months without you, Jason. We pray daily for your safe return. We love you and miss you.

Mom

[fl_sun]

I wish the media could host a special for your son Jason; a documentory of sorts, it has to continue to be so painful at this late stage :( your sacrifices and time will pay off in time (and it already has). You have given so much.

Just know God has a purpose for everyone born to this earth and each baby born was intended. He has a plan for all of us.

[Kelly]

http://www.ketv.com/news/9214517/detail.html

Autopsy Next Step In Investigation
Police Continue Their Investigation Into Hummel Park Remains

POSTED: 8:59 pm CDT May 14, 2006
UPDATED: 9:30 pm CDT May 14, 2006


OMAHA, Neb. -- Omaha police say the next step in the investigation into remains found Friday night in Hummel Park is an autopsy.

A tip led police to the remains in the park just north of town.

Police have said there's no indication that the remains are that of Amber Harris.

Police told Newswatch 7 they have notified other families with missing loved ones in the metro of the remains.


The family of Jason Jolkowski has been notified. He's been missing since June of 2001. Jolkowski's mother, Kelly, is also nervously waiting for investigators to identify the remains.

Amber Harris' parents told Newswatch 7 police have told them to stay home from work Monday.


http://www.kptm.com/video/2098442.html?id=439

Many More Missing Besides Amber
05/14/2006

The waiting game is not only affecting the Harris's, it's also raising concerns for other families who have missing loved ones.

While much of the attention has been focused here at the Harris home, they know they're not the only ones keeping a close eye on the investigation.

"It doesn't have to be Amber," Kelly Jolkowski says. "It could be anybody."

Kelly Jolkowski's son Jason disappeared almost 5 years ago. She called Omaha police detectives after the remains were found in Hummel park, but so far hasn't gotten much information.

"In this case we still don't know and that's very hard."

And it's hard for more families than you might think.

Currently there are more than 160 cases in Omaha involving a person's disappearance.

Our cameras caught police detectives meeting with the Harris family on Friday.

The question is why they were singled out.

Omaha police tell us that decision is made by individual detectives and so far there's nothing to officially link Hummel Park to any particular case.

Jolkowski tells us it's common for police and families to keep in contact.

"At first when he went missing there were a couple of these situation where it was frightening and it still is," Jolkowski says.

But that fear doesn't compare to the hope still inside many Omaha families.

Hope that detectives will uncover the clues that put their anxieties to rest.

These are just a few buttons some family members wear day in and day out.

They help families remain hopeful for a couple of things-above all that they'll see their loved ones again, but also they want to learn the truth behind the disappearances.

The Jolkowski's and Harris' have been in touch during the past couple of days.

Kelly Jolkowski stopped by the Harris home today as well as Friday.

They say they're leaning on each other to get thru this trying time.


***** Thank you to fl_sun and all the other who have emailed me with your kind thoughts and prayers.

[Kelly]

http://www.kptm.com/video/2098442.html?id=445

Harris Family, Families of Other Missing People Wait For Information
05/15/2006

Four days and nights, and still no new information for the family of Amber Harris.

Last week, human remains were discovered in Hummel Park. Since then, the Harris's have been on edge, wondering if the remains are Amber.

An Omaha Police detective suggested Melissa Harris stay home from work on Monday to wait for information. A call came at 5:15pm, but the detective could only say that they're still working on identifying the body.

OPD detectives tell the Harris's that the department is still working on the DNA process, and still can't tell if the remains are male or female, or what the age is.

In the meantime, the Harris family and relatives of other missing people in the metro have worried and wondered if it is their loved one that was found.

Melissa Harris says she's done what she can to pass the time, but that waiting is not easy.

"It seems to be harder when you first wake up in the morning," she says. "Your stomach's in knots. Then as friends and people take to you during the day it gets a little easier, but Amber's face is right there in front of you all the time."

Detectives have told Melissa Harris that they will call again on Tuesday, with any updates. She was also told that she could go back to work.

Melissa says that with everything that is going on, she is better off at home.

Amber Harris isn't the only missing person in the metro. Kelly Jolkowski from Project Jason has been in contact with detectives.

It's been almost five years since her son Jason disappeared.

She's also waiting to see if the remains are her son. It's the same feeling for many families.

[EdinburghLass]

Thinking of you and your family Kelly...

[Tranaice]

Keeping you and your family in my prayers Kelly.

[Mare]

Kelly,

I am thinking of you and your family.

Mare

[Kelly]

Thank you all. I'm doing better right now. I am hoping the day goes fast and that we do not have to wait another one for the news.

God bless,
Kelly

[Peabody]

Prayers for Kelly and family.

[tennessee]

Kelly, I pray that you will receive news soon. You are in my thoughts.

[shelley]

Kelly,
Praying for you and your family, and for the other families who are also waiting for news.

[KT Can]

Kelly,

Today as in everyday my thoughts and prayers are with you and all of the families of the missing. As always I wish there was more that I could do...

KT Can

[Kelly]

Thanks.

I called my LE today, and they simply aren't releasing info to anyone until they are ready. There is no ETA on the completion of the testing.

[fl_sun]

Thanks.

I called my LE today, and they simply aren't releasing info to anyone until they are ready. There is no ETA on the completion of the testing.
I just want you to know that I highlighted you and Jason on my citizens of Orlando, Florida forum (http://flfiesta.com/forum) where we are discussing Jennifer Kesse who is missing in Orlando, Florida. I feel it important, and you have stated to eliquently (see pink quote), that we need to raise awarness!! I would love to find a way where you can book a speaking engaugement in Orlando or Washington. We need a concert and conference on the missing. Is there any way that can be coordinated?

Again, I pray for Jason to be safe as well as Jennifer. I believe in the power of belief!!

[Gabby]

Prayers heading your way Kelly.... and for the families of others with missing loved ones.....

Remember that when you turn it over to HIM, he will carry you.

[christine2448]

Kelly, you are in my thoughts and prayers today and the last few days. I hope news comes soon for you and the Harris'.

[lisag]

Kelly, I pray that you will have some answers soon!!

[packerdog]

Dear Kelly, sending prayers your way

[Kelly]

Thank you all so much. Your kindness and prayers make the waiting much easier.

Fl_sun, please send me an email about your comments/ideas.
kelly.jolkowski(at sign)projectjason.org

[smile22]

prayers for you and ur family

[Peabody]

Kelly,

.........thoughts and prayers

:blowkiss:

[Amraann]

Kelly my thoughts are with you as well.


If you all plan an Orlando conference please count me in:)

[Praying4TheMissing]

Praying for you, Kelly, to feel His peace and comfort right now.

[Kelly]

Thank you for remembering us and Jason.

God bless,
Kelly

[christine2448]

Thinking of you Kelly.

[dannyodie]

I read where the body that was found earlier last week are those of 12 yr. old amber harris. I couldn't find the forum for her and posted here since it has been mentioned in here. prayers for the harris family.

[christine2448]

I read where the body that was found earlier last week are those of 12 yr. old amber harris. I couldn't find the forum for her and posted here since it has been mentioned in here. prayers for the harris family.Amber Harris Forum. (http://websleuths.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=100)

Kelly, I know you know how sad we all are about Amber. At that same time we can find relief it is not Jason....such torn emotions.

Thank you for all you did for the Harris' in the midst of what you are already doing and dealing withdaily in 'your own world'.

[Kelly]

Thanks, Christine. :-)

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1636&u_sid=2174939

Published Sunday
May 21, 2006

There are more people than you'd think

BY JENNIFER GREFF AND CHRISTOPHER BURBACH

WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITERS


Every time she hears that another family is searching for a suddenly missing loved one, Kelly Jolkowski's heart breaks once more.


Most recently, it was the relatives of Jessica O'Grady, an Omaha college student who was last heard from May 10, whose public heartache made Jolkowski want to reach out and help.

Before that, it was relatives of 12-year-old Amber Harris, and before that, others. Jolkowski tries to contact the families, feeling compelled to offer empathy and support to strangers to whom she feels an instant bond.

She knows the pain of not knowing.

Her son, 19-year-old Jason Jolkowski, disappeared in Benson on his way to work June 13, 2001.

"You are always haunted by 'Are they safe?'" Jolkowski said. "'Did something horrible happen to them?'"

An unusual two weeks in metropolitan Omaha have put missing people in the forefront of Omaha's consciousness. The discoveries of two bodies and the disappearances of two women were rare because they occurred so close together in time, but authorities see no connections among the cases.

"It's freakish," said Chief Deputy Jim Matthai of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office. "But they have nothing in common with each other except the timing."

Hundreds of people are currently missing in the area.

In Nebraska, 329 people were listed as of last week on the Nebraska Missing Persons Web site, which is maintained by the Nebraska State Patrol. Of those, 129 were reported missing to the Omaha Police Department. As of last week, 299 people were listed on Iowa's Web site.

The Amber Harris case is not typical.

Most missing people cases are resolved quickly - in Iowa, almost half are found safe within one day.

Only 30 of those in Nebraska have been missing as long as or longer than Jason Jolkowski. Only 22 of Nebraska's missing people cases are more than a decade old.

Rare is the case, said a woman who works on Nebraska's list, that goes on for years without answers, or that ends with the tragic news Amber's family received Friday, that a loved one was found dead.

"There's a very small percentage there," said Chris Price from the criminal identification intelligence division of the Nebraska State Patrol. "Unfortunately, it happens. Look at Amber. This is going to hit everybody hard."

Not having closure also hurts, but in a different way.

"It's a grieving process where you are stuck in the middle. You don't really know what you're grieving for," Kelly Jolkowski said.

She established Project Jason to communicate with other families of the missing. She also played a large part last year in establishing the missing people clearinghouse through the Nebraska Legislature.

It was a start, she said, but more needs to be done. The Web site needs more specific information on each missing person and pictures of each one.

She plans to ask the Legislature for another law requiring law enforcement to give families of missing people a national hot line number where they can find resources. She also is helping to bring a missing people training session to Omaha this fall for law enforcement personnel.

"Families don't realize they can't sit at home on the phone and someone else will do everything for them. Often, they have to fight for attention. . . . They have to fight to get investigations," she said.

Police say they take all missing people cases seriously and follow national and agency protocols on investigations.

Most of the time, a missing person is a chronic runaway or a juvenile who is at the home of a girlfriend or boyfriend, Matthai said, and this could be an issue in how cases are handled. He compared it to a business that has consistent false alarms; after awhile, it's natural to assume any alarm there is false.

If the missing person is a child, deputies immediately search in and around the home. But if the parents have no idea where the missing person has gone, there's not much the deputies can do, Matthai said.

"We can't knock on every door," he said. "But we would certainly hope it's not just rubber-stamped and ignored."

Many people believe they have to wait 24 hours before a person can be reported missing, but that is not true, Matthai said.

Family advocacy efforts such as Jolkowski's have helped to raise the public profile of missing people cases, said Barbara Nelson. She is program manager for the Criminal Justice Center for Innovation, which offers law enforcement training led by veteran investigators from missing people cases. The center is a part of Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wis.

When Jannel Rap's sister, Gina Bos, disappeared nearly six years ago in Lincoln, Rap spent a year struggling to get the amount of attention for the case that she felt any missing person case deserved.

Bos - a 40-year-old singer, songwriter and single mother of three - disappeared Oct. 17, 2000, after an open-mike night at a pub in Lincoln. Police assumed she was dead from the beginning, Rap said.

Rap, who lives in California, formed an organization called Gina for Missing Persons.

That led to a Web site, monthly webcasts and more than 100 benefit concerts highlighting missing people.

[dark_shadows]

Dear Kelly,
My heart goes out to you.

[Kelly]

Thanks.

I was really pleased that this made it on the front page....more attention for our cause!

[Perry]

Kelly,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the families of missing persons. You are truly an inspiration.

[Kelly]

Thanks, Perry.

Published Tuesday
May 23, 2006

A community grieves

Omaha World Herald Editoral

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=608&u_sid=2175790&u_rnd=9688002

Amber Harris, Tracy Tribble and Jessica O'Grady are reminders of the many who go missing locally.

The Omaha metropolitan area collectively mourns the loss of Amber Harris. And Tracy Tribble. And holds on to hope that Jessica O'Grady will be found alive and well.

Recent weeks and months have been filled with unease, hope and despair. The remains of 12-year-old Amber were found in Hummel Park May 11 after a six-month search. Tracy's body was discovered in the Missouri River Friday after an extensive search since her May 3 disappearance. And efforts continue to locate Jessica, a UNO student who was last seen May 10.

Additionally, the remains of an unidentified woman were found in a barrel May 6 in Council Bluffs.

It is hard to understand the type of person, the type of evil, that treats life with such disdain and callousness. Especially a life only 12 years along.

The Rev. Thomas L. Smith, pastor of Paradise Baptist Church, expressed what many in the community are feeling about the death of Amber.

"Our hearts bleed for this family," he said.

After all, Amber could represent anyone's child; Tracy, anyone's daughter, sister or wife; Jessica, likewise.

Unsettling is the fact that, despite the unusual timing with the Harris, Tribble and O'Grady cases, missing people are not uncommon. Nebraska currently has 329 people listed as missing, 129 of them reported to the Omaha Police Department.

Over the years, cases have popped up that provide faces to the many people who seem to vanish without a trace. In 1992, Omaha North High School student Kenyatta Bush was abducted and killed. Heather Guerrero, a 15-year-old newspaper carrier from Gering, was abducted, raped and killed in 2003.

Five years ago next month, 19-year-old Jason Jolkowski went missing in his Benson neighborhood. His case remains unresolved.

While both circumstances are rare - a missing person's case resulting in death and a case going unanswered for so long - both inflict a terrible cruelty on families.

In the case of death especially, questions arise about whether enough was done in order to find the missing person. Would an Amber Alert, if activated, have led to the safe return of Amber Harris?

Currently, there must be signs of an abduction and an idea of who might be involved in the abduction. Are such limitations appropriate? What is the best way to balance the practical demands of issuing an Amber Alert (named for another abducted child) with the safety of a child?

The Harrises have recommended Amber Alerts for all youths without histories of running away. The family of Heather Guerrero made a similar request after the death of their daughter in Gering. This is a topic that Nebraska policy-makers would be wise to discuss yet again.

Meanwhile, Midlanders have been doing their part over recent months and weeks. When tragedy strikes, so does a sense of helplessness. But coming together to support the families involved, praying, remembering the victims and helping search for those still out there are all actions that can make a difference.

It is comforting to know that the senseless acts of a troubled few and the ensuing powerlessness inflicted on a community are answered by the enduring qualities of the human spirit.

[Kelly]

Press Release from the Omaha branch of the United States Postal Service:

"OMAHA POST OFFICE RAISES AWARENESS OF AMBER ALERT WITH POSTAGE STAMP AND FINGERPRINTING EVENT

EVENT: The Omaha Post Office teams up with Project Jason to raise awareness of the AMBER Alert, 2006 social awareness stamp.

WHO: Omaha Post Office and board members/volunteers for Project Jason

WHAT: Volunteers will offer free fingerprinting to children and adults in the lobby of the Omaha Main Post Office lobby.

WHEN: Thursday, May 25, 2006 from 1:00 pm through 6:00 pm

WHERE: Omaha Main Office located at 1124 Pacific Street, Omaha NE 68108

BACKGROUND: With this new stamp, the U.S. Postal Service continues its tradition of drawing attention to important social causes. AMBER stands for America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response. Following the tragic death of Amber Hagerman, this program was created to broadcast emergency messages that a child has been abducted and is in imminent danger as determined by a law enforcement agency. This program has successfully helped in the recovery of more than 265 children. The stamp which will be dedicated in Arlington, TX and Washington, DC, May 25, and will be available for sale at all Omaha stations and branches.

Kelly Jolkowski, Founder and President of Project Jason, will be on hand at the Omaha Post Office to assist in the finger printing process. She believes that every person should have a completed Personal ID Kit , provided free though Project Jason. The information provided is invaluable to law enforcement, should a family member go missing.

The Project Jason Mission Statement:

“Our mission as a non profit organization is to create and increase public awareness of missing people through a variety of educational activities. Project Jason seeks to bring hope and assistance to families of the missing by providing resources and support.”

CONTACT: Roger Humphries, Customer Relations Coordinator @ 402-xxx-xxxx
Kelly Jolkowski, President of Project Jason @ 402-xxx-xxxx"
# # #

[christine2448]

Great job Kelly and all involved...thank you for helping us be aware and providing ID kits for our children!

[Kelly]

http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/2874601.html

Missing Children's Day

Spreading the message


Ironically, the memorial service for Amber Harris was held on National Missing Children's Day, a day to draw attention to the issue of missing and abducted children.

A new Amber Alert postage stamp was unveiled in Omaha. The message: Amber Alert Saves Missing Children is prominently displayed.

Part of Thursday's program included fingerprinting of children and other precautions parents can take to protect their kids.

Kelly Jolkowski, with Project Jason says, "They have all that critical data that they can immediately hand to law enforcement to start that search and also a photo which is very, very important."

Kelly's son Jason is among the missing. On June 13th, 2001, Jason was planning to walk a few blocks and catch a ride to work with a friend. He hasn’t been heard from since.

[Gabby]

Prayers for Kelly and the family...


Prayers for all who have missing loved ones.....

[Kelly]

Websleuths member Valerie has been kind enough to offer to have an online fundraiser for Project Jason. This offer is available through June 16th.

Here is what Valerie has to say about the fundraiser:

"I'd like to tell everyone about the exciting Pampered Chef fundraiser that is going on for Project Jason! Project Jason is a nonprofit organization that was started by Kelly Jolkowski. Kelly's son, Jason, disappeared without a trace from their driveway in 2001. Knowing that other parents in the same situation were feeling the same pain and having the same problems finding answers, she began Project Jason. Project Jason assists families of those that are missing, works to pass legislation that will give the missing and their families the rights they deserve, and helps to get the faces of the missing out in the public's eye.

Because Project Jason is a non-profit organization, they depend on donations to keep these services available to these hurting families. Our Pampered Chef fundraiser is just the way to get those donations that Project Jason needs! When you go to the special Pampered Chef website and order from the Project Jason link, the donation will go directly to Project Jason! Pampered Chef gives 10% of sales up to $599 in guest sales. Once guest sales reach $600 or more, the percentage raises to 15%. PLUS, I am giving ALL of my COMMISSION to this fundraiser, as well! This is an organization that I believe in, and that I know is helping the families that are desperately in need of help to find their loved ones.

Please drop an email to PamperedValY@yahoo.com for any questions you might have. The link for the fundraiser is http://www.pamperedchef.biz/pamperedvaly?page=news-detail&featureId=576296

Pampered Chef is known for their high-quality, yet affordable, kitchen products, including the stoneware that everyone raves about! Every product comes with a warranty of at least 1 year, and many items have a LIFETIME warranty!! You can't beat that! With every order of $60 or more, you will receive FREE the Pampered Chef Ice Cream Sandwich Maker! And, Pampered Chef will give an additional donation of $3.00 to Project Jason for each person that will book an online/catalog show. (You get the free Pampered Chef products, Project Jason gets the additional donation! Everyone wins!) PLUS, I am giving away FREE Pampered Chef prizes, cookbooks, and gift certificates to supporters of Project Jason! Just email me for the details!

Together we can help Project Jason to help others!"

Thank you, Valerie, for your most generous offer.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[Sundayrain]

Kelly, I have always thought of Jason and how hard it must be for you.
This kind of "lost without a trace" has got to be the ultimate grief.
As of March 8th......our family is looking for Laura Mackenzie. The help
from other missing parents has been wonderful. Brianna Maitlands father,also from the New England area has been a big help. We are hoping to find
Laura......it is such a big world to search. But, people are wonderful......
and hope and faith help too. I hope your Jason comes home soon.

[Kelly]

For readers in the Omaha area:

The Project Jason Board of Directors invites interested persons to attend the Project Jason Recognition Dinner to be held on Sunday, June 11th, at 6:30pm in downtown Omaha. The dinner will take place at a new and popular Cajun-style restaraurant in a historic building.

At the dinner, persons in the community will be honored for their contributions to Project Jason. In addition to the awards, the Board of Directors will present to attendees the history of the organization, current programs, community and national impact, goals, plus volunteer and other needs.

Seating is limited, so reservations are required in advance. Please call 402-932-0095 or email dinner@projectjason.org to reserve your place. The dinner costs $15 per person.

Project Jason is a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization. The Mission Statement is:

“Our mission as a non profit organization is to create and increase public awareness of missing people through a variety of outreach and educational activities. Project Jason seeks to bring hope and assistance to families of the missing by providing resources and support.”

Here are just two of many comments made by families of the missing about the work we are doing. We need your help and support in order to continue and improve our services.

Thank you.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/


“Project Jason assisted me with the case of my missing daughter, Katlyn, by distributing posters, leading me to other organizations that also help in finding missing loved ones. They also set up a group distribution where they alerted all of the TV stations in Omaha, NE. All of the TV stations came and filmed everyone hanging posters and interviewed me as a worried mother along with other family members and some of my daughter’s friends.

Last but not least, Project Jason has a very strong support system and Kelly never, ever lets you lose hope. She is an angel from above!! My daughter Katlyn has since returned home on August 30th, safe and sound. I would have never made it through an experience like this without the help of Project Jason. I can never re-pay Project Jason for all they did for me and my family not to mention Katlyn herself.”
Shelly Mlnarik, Mother of Katlyn


“Project Jason assisted me with the case of my missing son, Marc. I had filed a police report and they told me to sit back and wait. I couldn't wait. Fortunately, I have an online friend who told me about Project Jason.

Project Jason told me all the other things I could do like contacting the Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Project Jason gave me several resources for help in finding my son AND they listened to me when I felt like everybody else I spoke to thought I was crazy for worrying since "he is 17".

They designed a "Missing" poster for me that I had copies made of and these resulted in us finding our son. I can't fully describe the impact that Project Jason had on us, but they changed our lives forever. We have our child home and there is no greater gift that can be given.”
Cecelia Medbery, mother of former missing child Marc Medbery, Bellevue, Nebraska

[wondering22]

Kelly, when you have a spare second, would you kindly provide a URL to the exact poster of Jason which in your judgment is the 'BEST' one?

NO rush.

I'll check back in this thread to find the URL you adjudge the best missing poster.

I'd like to post a few in my neighborhood.

I do NOT believe that I have actually seen your son; however, I'd also like to show the posters to a few shop proprietors in my neighborhood, to see if they agree with me that Jason looks familiar. There are SO many "twins" around for each & every one of us, so I expect that's ALL it is.



TIA

[Kelly]

Kelly, I have always thought of Jason and how hard it must be for you.
This kind of "lost without a trace" has got to be the ultimate grief.
As of March 8th......our family is looking for Laura Mackenzie. The help
from other missing parents has been wonderful. Brianna Maitlands father,also from the New England area has been a big help. We are hoping to find
Laura......it is such a big world to search. But, people are wonderful......
and hope and faith help too. I hope your Jason comes home soon.

I'm so sorry about Laura. She's a lovely girl. Please do have the family contact me. I'm sure Bruce has been very helpful. I'm glad he's there for the family.

[Kelly]

Kelly, when you have a spare second, would you kindly provide a URL to the exact poster of Jason which in your judgment is the 'BEST' one?

NO rush.

I'll check back in this thread to find the URL you adjudge the best missing poster.

I'd like to post a few in my neighborhood.

I do NOT believe that I have actually seen your son; however, I'd also like to show the posters to a few shop proprietors in my neighborhood, to see if they agree with me that Jason looks familiar. There are SO many "twins" around for each & every one of us, so I expect that's ALL it is.



TIA

Thank you...how kind of you.

Here is a link to a good poster: Jason's Poster (http://www.projectjason.org/18wheel/18WheelAngel_Jason.pdf)

NCMEC has one, too, but I always dislike posters that don't give persons another place to go on the web if they were interested in the case.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[wondering22]

Thank you...how kind of you.

Here is a link to a good poster: Jason's Poster (http://www.projectjason.org/18wheel/18WheelAngel_Jason.pdf)

NCMEC has one, too, but I always dislike posters that don't give persons another place to go on the web if they were interested in the case.

Many blessings,
Kelly

Thanks, Kelly. We picked up a small photograph album, and along with the missing posters of a few individuals, I'm also going to get "photo quality" prints of a few, including Jason, to put in the samll album, which I can carry around with me --- you never know when and with whom you can ask, "Say, do you have ANY idea why this person looks familiar to me?"

Fact is, that I've found at about half a dozen images at www.doenetwork.org that have the ability to drive me nuts with the currently unanswerable, "WHERE have I seen you before?" question, and several other photographs that make me ask, "WHY do you look so familiar?"

You just never know which friends or neighbors or shop clerks or store managers that the situation may arise where you can ask them if the person looks familiar to them too.

So I'm really glad to have access to the poster you feel is BEST, thanks again.

[Jeana (DP)]

Continued thoughts and prayers for Jason to get safely home soon.

[Kelly]

Thank you to Jeana and Wondering22.

The Jolkowski family is pleased to announce that the Nebraska State Patrol has added a statement about the history of LB111, Jason's Law, to the State Missing Person's Clearinghouse website. We asked for this change to honor our missing son, Jason. He will be missing for 5 years as of June 13th, 2006.

Jason's Law mandated the creation of this website, the public database of missing persons, communications of same, and other benefits. It is primarily an awareness vehicle for missing persons of all ages, and mandates the communication of information about these persons.

I am also pleased that the State Patrol has invited me to come to their headquarters in Lincoln on June 28th to discuss improvements to the processes that Jason's Law mandated. A public announcement about these changes will come at a later date.

I have already prepared a list of changes, and will be glad to take along your feedback, however, all changes must fall within the law as stated. http://www.unicam.state.ne.us/pdf/FINAL_LB111_1.pdf

The Nebraska State Missing Person's Clearinghouse can be viewed here:
http://www.nsp.state.ne.us/missingpersons/index.cfm

Thank you for your support.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

PS: We need your support monetarily, too. Small nonprofits, such as ours, receive few public dollars. We have much we want and need to accomplish, but cannot without your help.

[lilsister]

Kelly, that is so amazing!!! You persevered and it was worth it. I am so proud of you and the efforts you have made on the part of the missing. Congratulations!!! I wish we could all contribute as much! :woohoo:

[lviola]

Thinking of you Jason. Kelly, you are such a strong woman. Much love to you and your family.

[Kelly]

http://www.reformer.com/Letters

Letter to the editor:

"Phony psychics should be exposed

Editor of the Reformer:

Nearly three years ago, the Reformer ran two front-page stories about self-proclaimed "psychic investigator" Carla Baron and her involvement with the case of two missing local women, Tina and Bethany Sinclair. Both stories were very positive and uncritical toward Ms. Baron; the only skeptical comment in either piece was a short quote from a local law officer, who said in effect that his department doesn't place much credibility in psychics.

I'm now curious as to whether the Reformer might consider publishing a followup article, updating the public about what help, if any, Ms. Baron's "evidence" has provided in solving the Sinclair case. I realize that an article along the lines of "Psychic fails again" may possess the dog-bites-man quality that newspapers usually try to avoid. But it might serve to provide a more balanced and realistic picture. And it would give you another opportunity to mention Ms. Baron's long history of exaggerated claims and self-serving statements, as documented here: www.iigwest.com/carla_report.html.

You could also note that despite what TV shows such as Medium might like you to believe, no crime in history has ever been solved by evidence provided through psychic means.

You could also mention the experience of Kelly Jolkowski, whose son Jason went missing in 2001 (see www.projectjason.org/). Since that time, Ms. Jolkowski has been contacted by a number of self-described psychics offering their services, often in exchange for money. Through her work on behalf of families of missing people, Ms. Jolkowski learned that many other parents had also received unsolicited offers from psychics.

She discovered that psychics are often very aggressive when contacting the family of the missing. For instance, if their offer is initially declined, they sometimes accuse parents of not loving their child enough to do everything possible to get them back. The "evidence" these psychics provide is contradictory, terrifying, depressing and ultimately, totally useless.

They sometimes accuse innocent people of being responsible. They waste valuable law enforcement time and effort tracking down bogus leads. And none has ever provided a single clue that helped locate a missing person. In an effort to prevent others from being similarly preyed upon, Ms. Jolkowski created a Web site (http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/2006/03/30606-pmp-introduction-to-psychics-and.html) to help warn the friends and family of missing people about these "psychic predators."

A followup article might help others from falling victim to Ms. Baron and her ilk, who shamelessly take advantage of families with missing loved ones, at a time when they are most vulnerable and desperate to try anything, however implausible. And it might determine whether the Reformer is truly interested in serving as a responsible source of information, or whether it prefers to pander to trendy and popular delusions.

Dick McCarrick

Athens, June 2"

[Jeana (DP)]

:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: EXCELLENT letter.

[Kelly]

Thanks, Jeana.


http://norfolkdailynews.com/headline.html

Web site keeps missing persons from being forgotten by public

By MEREDITH GRUNKE


An Omaha tragedy led to the creation of a tool that can help all Nebraskans stay updated on the state’s missing persons.

The Nebraska Missing Person’s Clearinghouse is operated by the Nebraska State Patrol and was established as part of Legislative Bill 111, also known as Jason’s Law, which was passed in 2005.

State Sen. Pat Bourne of Omaha introduced the bill after discussing the issue with one of his constituents, Kelly Jolkowski. Jolkowski’s 19-year-old son, Jason, was reported missing in 2001 and has yet to be found.

Bourne said he had hoped the clearinghouse would be a successful way of disseminating information throughout law enforcement and the public.

“The key is to keep that person’s name or image or situation in front of the public,” Bourne said.

Chris Price, manager of the Missing Person’s Clearinghouse, said the site was opened and available to the public starting in September 2005. It features information about all missing persons reported in Nebraska, and some profiles include a photograph.

As of Thursday, the clearinghouse listed 340 people missing from Nebraska, at least 11 of whom are from the Norfolk area.

The process of reporting a person to the clearinghouse begins at the local level.

Law enforcement files the missing person’s information with the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), which allows all law enforcement agencies to access it.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Kelly]

Press Release from our family:

Omaha, NE, June 13, 2006—He’s been gone for five years, but the friends and family of Jason Jolkowski won’t forget him. They also want answers.

Jason Jolkowski, then 19 years old, disappeared from the driveway of his home in Omaha on June 13th, 2001. He was called to go into work early and was going to be picked up by a co-worker at Benson High School, approximately 7 blocks away from the Jolkowski home. His car was in the shop for repairs, and his parents were both at work, so these arrangements were made. Jason never made it to the high school, and has not been heard from or seen since that day. His bank account was never touched, his checks from work were never picked up, and his cell phone was never used again. None of his possessions were gone, and he did not take $650 of his own money that was readily available. He was last seen in the driveway of his home at approximately 10:15am by his younger brother and a neighbor.

Five years later, his parents, Jim and Kelly Jolkowski, and his brother Michael, want answers. They believe that someone knows what happened to Jason. They want that person to come forward.

To mark this day, help people remember Jason, and to try to find the answers about his disappearance, the Jolkowski family will meet with the public at 7:30pm on Tuesday, June 13th at St. James Lake Park, located at 48th and Bedford Avenues in Omaha.

From 7:30 until close to nightfall at around 9pm, persons are asked to participate in a poster spread campaign. A newly designed poster will be used that states: “Someone knows what happened to Jason.” The posters will be placed in the neighborhood surrounding the Jolkowski home, which is nearby. The goal is to have posters placed on every block in the neighborhood and then beyond, if possible. Volunteers should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring drinking water.

At close to 9pm, a brief candle lighting ceremony and prayer service will be held at the park. Participants are asked to bring their own candle.

Jim and Kelly Jolkowski were instrumental in passing Jason’s Law in 2005, which fostered the creation of a missing person’s clearinghouse in Nebraska. They also founded a nonprofit organization named after their son called Project Jason. Project Jason’s mission is to assist families of the missing nationwide, and to provide resources and education for the public.

For more information, please call Kelly Jolkowski.

The Project Jason website is www.projectjason.org

[dulcinea]

I'm sorry if this question has been addressed before. Is there a reason Jason was going to meet his co-worker at the high school instead of the co-worker picking him up at home? 7 blocks really isn't that far out of the way and wouldn't take much longer to drive, at least not where I am from. Would going directly to your house have put the co-worker out of the way?

[TB-Calgary]

Kelly, though I am far away from where you live I will be with all of you tomorrow in spirit! I will also light a candle at sundown and pray for answers! May Jason be found soon....5 years is 5 years too long to go without knowing and to go without Jason.

Prayers
TB

[ravenmad]

Kelly,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Hugs,
Raven
:blowkiss:

[LinetteH]

Kelly, my thoughts and prayers are headed your way.

[Kelly]

I'm sorry if this question has been addressed before. Is there a reason Jason was going to meet his co-worker at the high school instead of the co-worker picking him up at home? 7 blocks really isn't that far out of the way and wouldn't take much longer to drive, at least not where I am from. Would going directly to your house have put the co-worker out of the way?

He thought it would be easier for the young girl to just go to the high school since she knew how to find that vs our house. It would be further away from the restaurant to go to our house than the school.


Thanks to all the well wishers. I know you're there with me, even though not physcially. It really helps.

Many blessings,
Kelly

[gardenmom]

Kelly, my thoughts are with you and your family at this anniversary. Praying Jason comes home and you have answers.

[christine2448]

Thinking of you a little more the next few days.

[czechmate7]

He thought it would be easier for the young girl to just go to the high school since she knew how to find that vs our house. It would be further away from the restaurant to go to our house than the school.


Thanks to all the well wishers. I know you're there with me, even though not physcially. It really helps.

Many blessings,
Kelly
Kelly,

Was it a neighborhood, business, residental area for the 7 blocks? And no one saw Jason walking down the street?? If he were taken from the driveway it seems odd that, unless he was being watched?, someone would have driven by at the same exact time he was taking out the trash....I wasn't aware his ride to work was from a female coworker....do you think a jealous individual associated with the coworker may be a possible thought?

I will keep you and your family (especially Jason!!) in my thoughts and prayers!

[inquiringmindz]

Lighting a candle for Jason

[annemc2]

Thinking of you a little more the next few days.

Me, too, Kelly and family.

[Angels_Not_Forgotten]

Kelly you are such a wonderful woman! so strong and you fight for those who can no longer do so. I will be praying for you and your family and lighting a candle, not a day goes by that I dont think of your son Jason and hope that the Lord sends him back to you!

[lilsister]

My thoughts and prayers are with you Kelly and your family.

[SadieJane]

Thinking of you and your family today, Kelly. I hope this will be the last anniversary you spend away from Jason.

[Gabby]

Kelly and Family


Tomorrow is th 5 yr mark of Jason being gone. This difficult day will be awash with prayers for you and for Jason from a small town in Texas..

May God see fit to bring Jason home to you and you never have to go another 5 years or even one year without knowing where he is.

Hugs and prayers,

Gabby

[Kelly]

I thank all of the wonderful members of WS for your prayers, kind thoughts, and support. The time has come to mark this day. It will come, and it will go, and we'll still be here, trying to make sense of what does not, and trying to go on with life regardless.

I would ask that members who have questions about his case, please respectfully hold those at this time.

http://www.wowt.com/home/headlines/3039411.html

Mother Keeps Her Hope
A young boy missing for five years


Tomorrow will mark the 5th anniversary of the disappearance of Jason Jolkowski and his mother continues her efforts to bring home her missing son. Kelly Jolkowski says that it doesn't get easier with time.

It's just a horrible rollercoaster of emotions," said Kelly Jolkowski, Project Jason. "You think it gets better but it doesn't."

June 13th, 2001 is the day in which Kelly's son vanished from the driveway of their home.

Kelly Jolkowski still waits for answers into why her son disappeared without a trace.

"You get used to it sort of, you never like it, just figure out ways to do it," said Kelly.

Jolkowski found her way through the pain by guiding other parents of missing children through a project she calls project Jason. It is a resource for families going through the pain of similar situations.

"We felt like take what you learned and share it," said Jolkowski. "Started little by little, never thought we would be doing what we're doing now."

The 5th year of Kelly's son's disappearance seems the hardest because she fights back tears as she recalls all the lost milestones in her son's life.

"Five years has been hard, it's half a decade, and all the thing missed along the way, it's really tough," said Jolkowski.

The search for Jason continues Tuesday night on the 5th anniversary of his disappearance. His mother is asking the public to gather at St. James Lake Park in Omaha, located at 48th and Bedford at 7:30 p.m.

Jolkowski is going to ask people to help hang posters and she is hoping someone will come forward with information to help bring her son home. A candlelight vigil is set to take place when it turns dark in honor of her son.

You can visit the Project Jason website by clicking the link.

[Kelly]

http://www.kptm.com/video/2098442.html?id=551

Jolkowski Family Marks Five Years Since Jason's Disappearance
06/12/2006

Tuesday will mark five years since Jason Jolkowski went missing from a Benson neighborhood. Now, his family is re-energizing the search for their son.

The Jolkowski family hopes to get Jason's name out in the public eye.

They've created new missing posters for Jason, because they truly believe someone knows something.

Kelly Jolkowski says June 13th, 2001 is a day she will never forget.

"It has just been extremely mysterious," Jolkowski says.

It was that mysterious day five years ago that her 19 year-old son was about to walk the seven blocks to Benson High School from their home. Instead, Jason was never seen again.

"We don't really know what happened after the driveway," Jolkowski says.

Five years later there are few clues in Jason's disappearance. That's why Kelly Jolkowski is using the anniversary to refuel the search.

"It's time to ask the public very firmly, where is he?" Jolkowski says.

Tuesday night, the Jolkowski family and volunteers will meet here at Lake James Park they will be armed with missing posters.

Their hope is to post at least 500, asking for the public's help. The posters will be on every block of the neighborhood where Jason was last seen.

"We want to get posters on every single block, from around our house and around Benson," Jolkowski said.

If the latest effort doesn't bring clues, Jolkowski says she will keep searching no matter how many anniversaries pass. "Until we get an answer, we are not going to quit," she says.

-----------------------------------------
If you would like to help the Jolkowski family with their campaign, meet at Lake James Park at 48th and Bedford Avenue at 7:30 on Tuesday evening.

-----------------------------------------

KPTM FOX 42 Weblink
www.projectjason.org

[BellevueMom]

Kelly,

Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you guys today. I can't fathom what today must be like to mark this day, and I'm glad to see the news stations picked it up. I wish you guys all the best in getting to the bottom of this, words can't begin to express my sincere sympathy for what you are going through. I hope your family has answers soon, and that this renewed focus on Jason brings some much needed attention to the entire case.

God bless you and your family today. You are in our thoughts and prayers...
(((hugs)))
BellevueMom

[dulcinea]

I am very confident something good will come from this. I am hoping someone's memory is jogged or someone's conscience is getting to them. This just might be what it takes. A lot has been happening in Omaha lately. Your turn is coming. Hang in there. Lots of people are praying for you!

[Peabody]

Love to you dearest Kelly, and special prayers for comfort and continued strength for all of you that love Jason on this date marking 5 missing years.

[christine2448]

"It's time to ask the public very firmly, where is he?" Jolkowski says.

Jolkowski says she will keep searching no matter how many anniversaries pass. "Until we get an answer, we are not going to quit," she says.
:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:


Thinking of Jason and your family today.

Praying the news of the anniversary brings about some information. I wish I could be there to help put up posters.

[Usher737]

Kelly, I will be thinking of Jason, you, and your family today! My God give you the strenght to continue with Project Jason and all that you do to help the missing!

[inquiringmindz]

Kelly,
I hope and pray your family finds the answers to the questions you've been asking for five long years. May someone find the courage within their heart to do the right thing and help your family end the suffering, pain, and uncertainty.
God Bless

[kholloway]

Thinking of Jason today.

Kelly, my thoughts and prayers are with you today and everyday that you find answers soon and bring Jason home.

[PrayersForMaura]

Jason is the top story today. :)


Missing But Not Forgotten

OMAHA, Neb. -- Someone knows what happened to Jason Jolkowski. His mother, Kelly Jolkowski has uttered those words for five years.


Tuesday marked the five-year anniversary of the disappearance of Jason Jolkowski. The Benson 19-year-old was last seen in the driveway of his home. He had arranged to walk to Benson High School, seven blocks from home, where a co-worker planned to pick him up.


Jason never made it to the school. His bank account was never touched. His cell phone went unused. He took nothing with him.


Five years later, his family clings to hope that someone knows something about Jason's disappearance that will help them solve this mystery


More: http://www.ketv.com/news/9366411/detail.html


Related To Story
http://images.ibsys.com/oma-structure/images/structures/buttons/button_enlarge.gif
http://images.ibsys.com/2006/0614/9367900_240X180.jpg (http://www.ketv.com/news/9366411/detail.html#)

[Kelly]

http://www.khastv.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=5222

(This TV station is back in our hometown, so our family there was interviewed for the 5 year missing date.)

Omaha family continues search for son

By Adam Freeman

Tuesday marks 5 years since 19 year old Jason Jolkowski vanished from the driveway of his Omaha home and there is still no sign of him or any clues about what may have happened.

Jason was born in Grand Island and still has more than a dozen relatives living in the area.

They said 5 years passing has not made it any easier.

From the beginning, the family has said someone, somewhere knows what happened to Jason and 5 years later they are still spreading that same message.

Five years after Jason Jolkowski's disappearance, his family continues to pray for his return.

“You want to hope for the best. And as time passes by you never want to give up hope,” said Jason’s aunt Sue Hovland.

Making it even more difficult is the way Jason vanished - without a trace.

“To not know where he is, or how he is, or what he is doing, that is just the hard part, you know, not knowing,” said Jason’s aunt Jean Kaslon.

5 years after Jason's disappearance the family says the pain is just as severe and it is something they think about everyday.

“One wonders, what happened? Where is he? Those kinds of things go through your mind a lot over 5 years,” said Hovland.

Family members are not the only ones always thinking of Jason.

“We have people come up to us everyday and ask about Jason.

So he is not forgotten,” said Jason’s grandma Betty Jolkowski.

“That is comforting to me to know that he is not forgotten,” Kaslon said.

To help bring hope to themselves, and other families of missing children, Jason's mother, has established a project called Project Jason.

They create and raise awareness about missing people.

“She has helped many, many people already,” Jolkowski said.

And the family still holds out hope that someday their prayers and questions will be answered.

“We feel somebody, someplace knows what happened to him and we would just like to have closure,” said Jolkowski.

“Just finding out what happened to Jason would be such an awesome miracle for our family. That is something we all pray for everyday,” said Hovland.

The search for Jason is continued Tuesday night in Omaha. The family and the public gathered to hang posters, hoping someone will come forward to help bring Jason home.

There was also a candlelight vigil planned for Tuesday evening in Omaha.

Related Info:
Nebraska Missing Persons Clearinghouse
(402) 479-4986
Toll free: 1-877-441- LOST (5678)


http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1636&u_sid=2188688

Published Wednesday
June 14, 2006

Reward fund set for missing man

The Omaha Police Department on Tuesday announced that a reward fund has been established for Jason Jolkowski. Tuesday was the fifth anniversary of his disappearance.

The $5,000 reward has been established through the Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation and is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in Jolkowski's disappearance.

Jolkowski, then 19, disappeared June 13, 2001, in Benson while on his way to work.

Omaha police urge anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 444-7867 or the Omaha Police Department at 444-5600.

The Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Fund is a national fund. It does not provide anonymity to callers.

************************************************** ***

The new poster of Jason is available to download here:

http://www.projectjason.org/downloads/JasonJolkowski0613.pdf

[arielilane]

Kelly, I continue to pray for Jason, you and your family. http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/17/17_1_10.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxdm824YYUS)

[Kelly]

I just wanted to thank my wonderful online family for all the support given us in the past 5 years. We had the poster campaign and the prayer vigil at the park and I would say we accomplished the goals for this event and more.

At the event, people started showing up right away. Kinkos Copies at 71st and Dodge donated a giant poster of Jason, 500 B&W posters, 250 color posters, and 50 copies of the Prayer Vigil. If we'd had to pay for this, I'm sure it would have cost at least $300 or more.

You'll be thrilled to hear that we completed the postering of the target area of our neighborhood. The 500 posters were placed in an hour and a half! We also gave out quite a few of the color ones for people to put in businesses. We had Jason's button to give away, and I know that we gave out many of those, too. (I'm too tired to count them tonight.) We had coverage from 3 TV stations, and we were top story on one. I also had a radio interview.

Melissa Harris and her girls came as well as the parents of missing Erin Pospisil. Melissa helped me and some of our board members assign campaign areas to the volunteers.

I believe we had at least 40+ people who stayed for the vigil. I will paste the text from the vigil below, so that you can see the prayers we said.

It's late, but I did want to thank you all.

With hope for Jason, always,
Kelly


Jason Jolkowski 5 Year Missing Date Poster Campaign and Candlelight Vigil

Thank you for coming and supporting our family with your prayers and your presence. More importantly, thank you for not forgetting Jason. It is vital for us to rally as a community and continue in our efforts to find Jason, or at least to find the person(s) who know what happened to him. 5 years is much too long to live without answers.


Jim, Kelly, and Michael Jolkowski

Prayers for the community: (If you are not comfortable with the Community Prayers, feel free to remain silent. Please pause in between each prayer and think of Jason.)

(We also include in these prayers the family and friends of all missing persons and those who may be waiting for answers.)

Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy Will be done, on earth, as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Readings from Scripture: Family Members

Other Prayers:

Saint Anthony, perfect imitator of Jesus, who received from God the special power of restoring lost things, grant that I may find Jason, who is lost. As least restore to me peace and tranquility of mind, the loss of which has afflicted me even more than my personal loss. To this favor I ask another of you: that I may always remain in possession of the true good that is God. Let me rather lose all things than lose God, my supreme good. Let me never suffer the loss of my greatest treasure, eternal life with God. Amen.

(The 2 prayers below were ones I wrote about 6 months after he went missing. They can be found on his website.)

Dear Lord, hear me in my plea. I ask You, if it be Your Will, for the quick and safe return of Jason to his loved ones. If it not be Your Will at this time, Lord, then I ask for the graces necessary for Jason's loved ones to be able to carry this cross. Even though it may seem like the darkest of times, let them know that the light of Your Love shines ever so brightly upon them and that You have wrapped them in the mantle of Your most generous and Sacred Heart. Please, Lord, as a new day dawns without Jason, let them know that as they take each difficult step forward, You are right there by their side. When they falter, let them know that it is You who pick up their cross & enable them to carry on. May they never doubt Your immense love of them, & may they find the peace & joy that comes from loving You.

Almighty God, may You & all the angels and Saints watch over Jason. Let him know how much he is loved. Keep him from harm's way, and protect his soul from temptation. Strengthen Jason's body and soul on his journey, and provide him with his necessities. Please guide him in what he does, and, if it be Your Will, lead him back home to his loved ones. Amen.
(extinguish candles-end of service)

May God bless you and yours. Reach out tonight and tell someone that you love them. Thank you.


www.projectjason.org

We need your support for Jason and all the others like him.

[Kelly]

Don't forget to help Project Jason with your Pampered Chef order. June 16th is the last day for this campaign. Please see my post from 5/26 for more information.

Thank you!

Kelly
PS: A big thanks to our Valerie!

[Usher737]

Hey Websleuths let's show our support for Project Jason and place an order!!!! You can get great products and help out a great cause! Its a win-win situation!!! Still some time left but hurry and do it now!!

[Gabby]

Kelly--- Any new leads generated that you are aware of?

[inquiringmindz]

I just wanted to thank my wonderful online family for all the support given us in the past 5 years. We had the poster campaign and the prayer vigil at the park and I would say we accomplished the goals for this event and more.

At the event, people started showing up right away. Kinkos Copies at 71st and Dodge donated a giant poster of Jason, 500 B&W posters, 250 color posters, and 50 copies of the Prayer Vigil. If we'd had to pay for this, I'm sure it would have cost at least $300 or more.

You'll be thrilled to hear that we completed the postering of the target area of our neighborhood. The 500 posters were placed in an hour and a half! We also gave out quite a few of the color ones for people to put in businesses. We had Jason's button to give away, and I know that we gave out many of those, too. (I'm too tired to count them tonight.) We had coverage from 3 TV stations, and we were top story on one. I also had a radio interview. Kelly,
This sounds like a lovely vigil. How wonderful that the community rallied to support Jason. It is surely a ray of light and hope! May your prayers be answered. Thinking of Jason and your family, as always. Jennifer

[Kelly]

Kelly,
This sounds like a lovely vigil. How wonderful that the community rallied to support Jason. It is surely a ray of light and hope! May your prayers be answered. Thinking of Jason and your family, as always. Jennifer

That's a perfect description of the event: a ray of light and hope. I am renewed every time I drive down the neighborhood streets now and see all the posters placed, which were a labor of love.

My LE said he will keep me updated on any leads.

In other news, Valerie has extended the Pampered Chef fundraiser through June 26. At this time, we still are at one order in.

Gabby, your beautiful thread over at the Not Forgotten area was ruined by a very vicious post wherein a member played upon my heart in the cruelest way imaginable. He/she plays "psychic" on some other threads here and must have taken offense to my blog series on the truth of the matter and then lashed out at me. In summary, he/she said I have little faith and that Jason is dead. It's all so ridiculous, but it's also very cruel. I was so shocked that anyone would do such a thing here. I did report the post, but so far have heard nothing about the report. I don't want anything more said about it here, but invite members to indicate your outrage on that thread. Thank you.

Edited to add that a moderator has removed the offending posts...thank you.

Kelly
There may be a raincloud over my head, but God gave me an umbrella.

[Gabby]

Gabby, your beautiful thread over at the Not Forgotten area was ruined by a very vicious post wherein a member played upon my heart in the cruelest way imaginable. He/she plays "psychic" on some other threads here and must have taken offense to my blog series on the truth of the matter and then lashed out at me. In summary, he/she said I have little faith and that Jason is dead. It's all so ridiculous, but it's also very cruel. I was so shocked that anyone would do such a thing here. I did report the post, but so far have heard nothing about the report. I don't want anything more said about it here, but invite members to indicate your outrage on that thread. Thank you.

Edited to add that a moderator has removed the offending posts...thank you.

Kelly




Kelly I am so sorry that happened. They will have to pay for this in the afterlife, if not before... Hugs dear friend and God Bless You.

[Kelly]

FYI: For readers of my blog, I have begun writing again. Thank you for being there for me.

Kelly Jolkowski, Mother of Missing Jason Jolkowski
President and Founder,
Project Jason
http://www.projectjason.org
Read our Voice for the Missing Blog
http://voice4themissing.blogspot.com/

[Tranaice]

Kelly, I'm so sorry someone was so cruel. :( I think about Jason every day and say a prayer for him and your whole family. I don't post a lot because others always seem to say what I'm feeling, but I wanted you to know that ya'll are in my thoughts and prayers.

[Kelly]

Thanks, T.


Happy 25th Birthday today, Jason, wherever you are.

Love,
Mom

[Megs]

Thanks, T.


Happy 25th Birthday today, Jason, wherever you are.

Love,
Mom
Kelly,
My thoughts and prayers are with you today and will be for all days to come. Happy Birthday to Jason.... I'm sure that wherever he is, he knows that you are thinking of him and love him!

[christine2448]

http://smilies.sofrayt.com/fsc/happy%20birthday1.gif

[fl_sun]

http://websleuths.com/forums/images/icons/icon7.gif http://jenniferkesse.com/guestbook/emoticons/love.gif Happy Birthday to Jason http://websleuths.com/forums/images/icons/icon7.gif http://jenniferkesse.com/guestbook/emoticons/love.gif

[bykerladi]

Happy Birthday Jason! Come home soon!!:woohoo: :HappyBday

[MaGruff31]

Hi All, I am new to this site, as a poster that is, but I would like to commend everyone for coming together and establishing such an important website. Kelly, I truly believe there are no words, none that I can convey to you, as a parent myself that would be of any relief. I just commend you for your strength and perserverance. Never give up though I know you won't. Fight the good fight and you will win it. May answers come soon. You are in my prayers....

[Kelly]

Welcome to WS, Magruff, and thank you for your kindness.

You are right in that I will never give up, not for Jason, and not for the others.

God bless you and yours,

Kelly

[lilsister]

Belated Birthday wishes to Jason.:HappyBday Kelly, hang in there.

[Kelly]

lilsister: Thank you and I am. See below:

http://www.kptm.com/news/local/3239911.html

New Alert Could Help In Search For Missing Persons

Scott Lea - KPTM FOX 42 News

A local group is doing its part to help find missing people more quickly.

Project Jason, named in memory of Jason Jolkowski, the Omaha teenager who went missing in June, 2001 wants a law enforcement to create a new classification (<<<not our wording) of a missing person. The group says they hope this new classification will save lives.

The plan is in police hands as of today, and it is already getting results.

Clicking through the Project Jason website, Kelly Jolkowski say she sees proof that more needs to be done to find missing people. "We need to do something, and this is the perfect thing to do," she says.

What Project Jason has come up with is a proposal to Omaha media outlets and area law enforcement.

It essentially gets television and radio station more actively involved with more missing persons cases.

"n the case of a TV station, they will start a crawl or a ticker at the bottom of the screen to give information about the person who is missing," Kelly says.

It's called a Project Jason Alert, modeled after a program used in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Right now, an Amber Alert can only be issued when there is proof that a missing child is danger. Under Project Jason, age doesn't matter.

Police would also only contact the media when the family and authorities are concerned about that missing person.

"It's something in between, too often nothing gets done," Kelly says. "We want to save lives."

The plan is already getting a good response. Omaha police say they are interested in the idea and will research how Cedar Rapids works. The Sarpy County Sheriff's Office says they talk about it on Wednesday.

"It makes us very happy we all want to cooperate together," says Melissa Harris, who spent the day taking the plan's details to rural police.

Project Jason leaders hope the special alert will keep recent tragedies like Amber Harris, Tracy Tribble and Jessica O'Grady from happening again.

"Even if it just saves one life, that's enough," Melissa says.

The Harrison County Iowa Sheriff's Department has also agreed to be part of the plan. In October, nationwide missing person experts will come to Omaha to train police.


*Watch for more news about the proposed Project Jason Alert tomorrow.*

[Bobbisangel]

This is a great idea Kelly. Did you and Melissa put your heads together and come up with it? It would be wonderful if this idea would catch on in every state. The word would get out right away that someone is missing. What other info would be on the ticker...age, height, weight, clothing? If an Amber Alert went out along with the ticker that would be twice as good. If not, at least some info would be out right away. Good for you for coming up with this.

[Kelly]

I can't sleep for some reason. It must be all the excitement. Tomorrow, well, actually today, is my meeting with the Nebraska State Patrol, too. I'd better be awake for that. Things are indeed happening in Nebraska.

To answer Bobbie, the idea came from my co-worker. She is from eastern Iowa and when we talked about the frustration of the Amber Alert system, she told me about the one in IA. It's been in place there for 20 years. I've never heard of anything similar in the country, other than one for the elderly called Mattie's Call. I believe that may be used in the Atlanta area.

While we can't have an Amber Alert for every missing person, I knew there had to be some compromise, an in-between. When my co-worker told me about the special system in IA, it was hard to stop thinking about it. I started to research it and get information from the media and LE in IA. I received permission from the board last week to go after it, and that is what I am doing.

After the board approved it, I asked Melissa if she wanted to help with it. Prior to this, she and her mom were going to go on a day trip to visit the LE up in the area north and west of here where she grew up. They were going to take the flyer about the LE training we are bringing to Omaha in October. It seemed like a good idea to have her take the alert proposal with her as well, so that's what she did. They are friends with many of the LE up there, so it was a way for them to kill 2 birds with one stone: visit the old stomping grounds and disseminate our info. They were all very receptive to Melissa and her mom. I know they did a fantastic job presenting it.

The ticker would tell all basic physical data. It would run in between newscasts and the photo and data would be shown on the next local news program.

The Omaha viewing area will be a beta test. Once established, I plan on taking it west and cover Nebraska. Of course, anyone can initiate it anywhere in the country.

I think it would be wise at this point to get it going here and have better written guidelines than the almost non-existent ones from IA.

We're still in the beginning stages of seeking the participants. They all just received the letter on Tuesday. Already though, we have one LE with a firm yes, and several in discussion. We have WOWT as the first official media participant. KPTM did the first news story and we are certain we will get their official yes on Wednesday. The WOWT story should air today. It was bumped last night because of a train accident.

Once we get the participants we need, I will call a meeting for all of us to create the guidelines. After that, it will be up to the media and LE how fast they can implement it. My personal target date is August 1st.

At this time, we need people to pray for this to go smoothly and for media and LE to easily say yes. I prayed as I dropped the batch of letters into the mailbox and all day Tuesday. So far, it looks like a YES!!!!

I'd better try to get some sleep. Thanks for the support!

[christine2448]

Let us know how the meeting goes today! We are with you in spirit.....great job once again Kelly!

[Gabby]

Prayers for Kelly and all those involved with this new project..... Godspeed

[Angels_Not_Forgotten]

praying for you!!

[lilsister]

I am so very proud of you Kelly and all that are involved. I think this is a fabulous idea and all states should implement it!:dance:

[Kelly]

Thanks, all.

The meeting went quite well. I learned several things about what is going on behind the scenes in repsect to how things should be and why they are not. I'll just say that it is not the NSP's fault. We're going to work on some things to get cooperation from the info providers. I truly feel that the NSP people do want the site to be worthy of Jason's legacy.

WOWT did have the Project Jason Alert story on tonight, but have not posted it on the web. I will transcribe it myself if I need to. It was the second story at 5pm.

We did get another LE on board today. This is only day 2, so I'm pleased.

Let's keep praying though.

[Kelly]

For Omaha area readers:

BOWLING FUN RAISER

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6TH, 1:30 P.M.
Plaza Bowl, Hwy 30 Fremont, NE

Omaha based nonprofit organization, Project Jason, which assists families of missing persons and provides educational materials, will be hosting a bowling “fun raiser”. Bowlers can play up to three games for $10. Door and other prizes will be given away throughout the afternoon. Space is limited, so bowlers will need to sign up ahead of time. To sign up, or to get additional information, please email bowling@projectjason.org or call 402-932-0095.

www.projectjason.org
Sponsored by Project Jason

[PonderingThings]

Kelly I have been taking some time off but I had to check for updates about Jason - because I dreamed of him last night. This was NOT a psychic dream but instead one where Jason just appeared, doing "normal" stuff.

Why? I have no idea. Perhaps its because he lives in my mind and I unconciously search for him. I don't know, but it was pleasant to have him "visit". http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif

Best wishes to Jason's family. Your strength is awesome!

[Kelly]

Kelly I have been taking some time off but I had to check for updates about Jason - because I dreamed of him last night. This was NOT a psychic dream but instead one where Jason just appeared, doing "normal" stuff.

Why? I have no idea. Perhaps its because he lives in my mind and I unconciously search for him. I don't know, but it was pleasant to have him "visit". http://www.websleuths.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif

Best wishes to Jason's family. Your strength is awesome!

Hello,

You're not alone in this. Many "normal" people have dreams where he is alive and well. It's only the "psychics" who all say he is dead.

In fact, just last week, a family member had a very vivid dream that he was alive. That's the dream I have too. I just don't have it while I am sleeping.

Many blessings to you and yours,
Kelly

[fl_sun]

I agree, I too had a dream that Jennifer Kesse was sleeping soundly while her boyfriend (not Rob Allen for some reason) woke up early to be to work on time. They seemed very happy and self assured.

I don't believe in psychics, especially ones who advertise. But I do believe there are powers of perception (not extra sensory perception). God speaks to his children through dreams and we are surrounded by his angels.
I know God will answer all of our prayers and his mercy endures forever.

[Gabby]

I got my order from Pampered Chef today.... It is wonderful.... It was spices and Mr. G. is going to use them at the BBQ cookoff this weekend.

[Gabby]

Hello,

You're not alone in this. Many "normal" people have dreams where he is alive and well. It's only the "psychics" who all say he is dead.

In fact, just last week, a family member had a very vivid dream that he was alive. That's the dream I have too. I just don't have it while I am sleeping.

Many blessings to you and yours,
Kelly


This is my dream also Kelly.....as with you, not while I am sleeping....

[Kelly]

A big thanks to Usher and Gabby for placing PC orders! Every little bit helps!

Many blessings,
Kelly