Two Seymour residents and 18 other representatives of the state’s travel, tourism and hospitality industry were recognized Friday with Hoosier Hospitality Awards.

The awards were presented by Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann to Kathy Mead and Martha McIntire for their work with the Seymour Oktoberfest during the Indiana State Fair.

Mead and McIntire retired from the festival board after the 2014 festival, which was the 42nd. McIntire spent 29 years on the board, and Mead served on the board for 27 years. 

The awards are presented to those whose have provided a high level of service in tourism-related jobs at hotels, restaurants, attractions and other destinations, according to a news release.

Nominations are submitted by community members and destination patrons. Nominations are reviewed and winners are selected by the Indiana Office of Tourism Development. Outstanding service is a major factor in determining whether a person returns to an individual business or destination.