Chamber Of Commerce Marks 75th Dinner

New Jersey's movers and shakers head south for the state Chamber of Commerce 75th annual train trip to Washington and congressional dinner Thursday.

But at least one tradition is off the table. For the first timein recent memory, no members of Congress will speak at the dinner.

That honor will go solely to Gov. Chris Christie.

In years past, both U.S. senators and the dean of the congressional delegation, Rep. Chris Smith, were offered a chance to speak.

Chamber spokesman Scott Goldstein says the change was made after overwhelming feedback from a survey last year indicated attendees desired fewer speeches.

More than 800 business leaders, lobbyists, lawmakers and other politicos are expected to ride the 12-car chartered train this year, up from about 700 last year.

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