Successful bartending requires many skills: In addition to serving up a beer without too much (or too little) foam, you’ve got to be a walking encyclopedia of mixed drinks, a mediator of disputes, and a sympathetic listener. Whether he’s slinging drinks, shaking dice, or overseeing the action at Loopy’s (10691 County Hwy. X, Chippewa Falls), Justin Mason has been the Valley’s favorite bartender for four years running. Coming in second is Trevor Meland from Wagner’s Lanes and The Complexx, who is sure to keep the fun rolling under the dome. Third place goes to Todd Polus, a familiar face to regulars at The Wigwam as well as to voters in this category. —Tom Giffey