Savvy marketing wizards can find a gold mine in a community's demographic profile.

Just ask Jason Little.

Little, the Cottonwood recreation programmer for the Parks and Rec Department, is an Indiana transplant. He couldn't help but notice that the ever-changing demographics of the Verde Valley is filled with fellow Midwest transplants.

He also knew that folks from the Midwest love their barbecue.

He also knows that it's a tradition in the Midwest for barbecue connoisseurs and providers to gather for a little cook-off to see just who has the best barbecued ribs around.

Just like a great musician, Little knew he had a big hit on his hands.

He was right. Last weekend's inaugural Rhythm & Ribs festival was one of the best times Cottonwood has seen in years.

More information on Rhythm & Ribs barbecuing festival at verdeindependent.1upsoftware.com.