Bill To Name June 1 In Honor Of Ocean Co. Legend Gets Senate Vote

BERKELEY, NJ — A bill to designate June 1 as "Robert 'Bob' Popovics Day" in New Jersey passed the state Senate in a unanimous vote Monday.

The measure, introduced by the 9th Legislative District delegation of Sen. Carmen Amato, Asm. Brian Rumpf and Asm. Greg Myhre honors the legacy of Popovics, a legendary fisherman and Berkeley restaurant owner who was killed in a hit-and-run last year.

"The unanimous, bipartisan support the bill received reflects the deep respect Bob earned throughout his life—as a veteran, devoted family man, innovative entrepreneur, and iconic figure in the fishing community," the delegation said in a statement.

June 1 was already designated in honor of Popovics in Berkeley Township; this bill extends that honor statewide. The date was chosen as Popovics' rose garden at the restaurant he owned for decades, Shady Rest, is in full bloom this month.

"Bob touched countless lives with his warmth and selflessness. Honoring him statewide reflects the deep gratitude and admiration so many feel for all he gave to his community," the delegation said.

The identical companion measure, AJR-209, is awaiting consideration by the Assembly State and Local Government Committee.

Popovics was 75 when he died last year after being struck in a hit-and-run. Aside from running Shady Rest for nearly 60 years, Popovics was an iconic part of the fishing community; a well-known saltwater fly fisherman and fly tyer whose "Pop Fleyes" set the standard for saltwater flies.

The woman who struck him, Genell A. McInaw, was recently indicted on multiple charges in the crash.

Previous reporting:

• Man, 75, 'Critical' After Hit-And-Run In Seaside Heights; Woman Charged
• Woman Charged In Seaside Heights Hit-And-Run Knew She Hit Someone: Affidavit
• Bayville Restaurant Owner, Fishing Icon, Dies After Hit-And-Run
• Funeral, Memorial Scholarship Set For Late Bayville Restaurant Owner
• Woman's Charges Upgraded In Seaside Heights Hit-Run After Restaurant Owner, Fisherman Dies
• Woman Charged In Fatal Seaside Heights Hit-Run Of Restaurant Owner Released: Report