This is definitely needed in Portland. I know so many people that would use it, including us (Mugasha Crew).
I want to encourage everybody on HN to submit a talk to this conference, or register (but c'mon, submit a talk!). I know some of the people organizing it, and they're doing some really cool things.
As one of the folks helping organize the event, I'd like to say thanks for the kind words. And I agree with you 100% on Hacker News folks submitting talks. ;)