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AJR 209

Designates June 1 of each year as "Robert 'Bob' Popovics Day" in New Jersey.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dawn Fantasia and 2 co-sponsors

Designates June 1 each year as Robert ‘Bob’ Popovics Day in New Jersey and asks the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing his contributions.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · AJR 209

AJR 209 – Summary

Overview

AJR 209 is a joint resolution introduced in the New Jersey General Assembly on January 14, 2025. The bill designates June 1 of each year as “Robert ‘Bob’ Popovics Day” in New Jersey and requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the day. The resolution is introductory and has been referred to the Assembly State and Local Government Committee. A companion bill exists in the Senate as SJR 146.

Purpose and Intent

  • Create a statewide, annual commemorative day honoring Robert “Bob” Popovics for his contributions to the New Jersey community, the fishing community, and the United States.
  • Formalize recognition through a legislative designation and an annual gubernatorial proclamation.

Key Provisions

  1. Designation: June 1 of each year is designated as “Robert ‘Bob’ Popovics Day” in New Jersey.
  2. Proclamation: The Governor is respectfully requested to issue an annual proclamation recognizing this day.
  3. Effective date: The resolution takes effect immediately.

Background on the Honoree

  • Born in Trenton, New Jersey; longtime resident of Seaside Park.
  • Served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
  • Operated Shady Rest, a Bayville restaurant started by his parents, with his wife.
  • Noted figure in the fishing community: avid fly fisherman, master fly tyer, founder and CEO of Pop Fleyes (a custom fly tying and education company).
  • Designs described as groundbreaking; led to community meetings that contributed to the creation of the Atlantic Saltwater Flyrodders.

Who Is Affected

  • Residents of New Jersey, particularly members of the fishing community and Shady Rest supporters, receive formal statewide recognition.
  • The Governor’s Office, which would issue the annual proclamation.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced: January 14, 2025.
  • Status: Referred to the Assembly State and Local Government Committee (as of introduction).
  • Related legislation: SJR 146 (Senate companion).

Potential Impact

  • Symbolic recognition emphasizing civic contributions, veteran service, and community involvement.
  • No new mandatory duties or funding are specified in the text; the measure relies on a ceremonial designation and yearly gubernatorial proclamation.

Notes

  • The bill is part of a broader set of commemorations that highlight notable New Jersey residents and their legacies.
  • If enacted, the designation would become part of the annual observances recognized by the state, alongside other commemorative days.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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