The South Towne Exposition Center has been re-named for a regional bank, and, of course, everything being "sponsored" is inevitable.
For years, I have been (mostly dragged) to expositions for homes and gardens and travel and collectables (okay, I wasn't dragged to this one), as well as big antique sales and auto shows. I have the unique experience of once living 200 yards from the Center, being an exhibitor (for a few computer security exhibitions), and being a learning participant in knowledge conferences. So I have experienced the center for more than a decade, in almost every single possible way.
I can first state that nothing has really magically improved (though it's early in their tenure) with the exception of their signage, which I find to be less confusing than in the South Towne days.
The most infuriating part of the Center remains: The lack of free WiFi, or any cell phone reception whatsoever. I flirted with not reviewing the Salt Lake Home Show at all because it's like walking into The Pentagon. Exhibitors: Don't you want people like me to PROMOTE what's going on DURING the event? I thought so.
Parking is a mini-hassle. We went on Friday at 4 p.m. within the first 2 hours of the SL Home Show's start, and the lot was FULL. Granted, they had free valet service, but only d-bags don't tip, so essentially it was "reasonably priced" parking.
In the event hall, the signage is still outdated, the bathrooms old-aged, and the heating system was set to "sauna".
The rooms I've been in for educational lectures are still what they were ... drab.
Still, it's a gigantic grand place perfect for big events. It'll be interesting to see what happens when they put down the paint brushes and get down to the real work--improving the Center into one above and beyond the Salt Palace, our region's premier venue. read more