A cruise ship is docked at Ketchikan's downtown Berth 2. About 1 million cruise passengers visited Southeast in 2015. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

A cruise ship is docked at Ketchikan’s downtown Berth 2. About 1 million cruise passengers visited Southeast in 2015. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

The Ketchikan Visitors Bureau has announced its annual awards, handed out last week during its annual banquet.

Winners are picked by the KVB’s awards committee, using nominations from the bureau’s membership, staff and the public.

The Rainbird Award honors those who have volunteered time and talent to the KVB. The winner is Chuck Baird of Waterfall Resort

The Spirit of Alaska Award recognizes those who embody the traits of friendliness and service to visitors. The winner is Candi Scudero of Experience Alaska Tours.

The Heart of the Community Award goes to someone who has made significant contributions to the community. The winner is Gillian Edwards of Southeast Sea Kayaks.

The Chinook Award honors a group or person who has made a significant impact in bringing groups to Ketchikan for events. The winner is the University of Alaska System, and the award was accepted by Priscilla Shulteand Gary Frietag.

And the Golden Totem Award, which recognizes leadership, new ideas and cooperative efforts within Ketchikan’s visitor industry, went to Ketchikan Outdoors, owned by Tab and Sarah McNabb.