I love Salt Lake City (I was born there and moved away 5 years ago). But, Salt Lake City in the middle of January is the last place I would want to be.
Its not the snow, cold, or people -- but the smog from the inversions is absolutely terrible.
BUT... but but but... it is the same weekend as the Sundance Film Festival. There will be PLENTY of fun stuff to do for the attendees. And since we will have a Significant Others track, there will be good reason to bring along a friend.
You're right. And Park City is a great getaway from the air in the valley even if you don't ski.
I'm sorry for being a downer when you're doing a great thing and starting a new conference. May the wind gods shine upon you and blow the muck out on Jan 15th.
Its not the snow, cold, or people -- but the smog from the inversions is absolutely terrible.