See who won big at this year’s Good ‘Burger awards

The St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce’s Good ‘Burger award ceremony may have had to move online this year, but that didn’t dampen the festive spirit of an event that’s become a community favorite over the last eight years. 

The awards, named in honor of a former St. Pete mayor who referred to his citizens as “‘burgers,” were established to honor local businesses and individuals that contribute to the community in a positive way.

“We’ve had a heck of a year, but we’re ending strong with a community that knows its direction and understands its impact in the world,” said Chris Steinocher, chamber president and CEO.

In a nod to the two most transformative events of 2020, two new awards were introduced this year – Trailblazers and Change Agents, which celebrates the outstanding achievements of entrepreneurs of color as well as the individuals and organizations supporting their advancement and Essential ‘Burger, awarded to individuals, businesses or organizations who made significant pivots and personal sacrifices to provide care, services, resources and more for the community during the pandemic.

Miles Fetherson-Resch

Miles Fetherston-Resch, the 8-year-old founder of Kids Saving Oceans, a conservation lifestyle brand “by kids, for kids,” took home the award for MVB: Most Valuable ‘Burger. He makes clothing and accessories from recycled or sustainable materials and then donates the proceeds to groups that work to protect the oceans. His goal is to raise $1 million to save oceans and beaches by the time he’s 18. 

“You are never too young to make a difference,” he told the online audience. “Thank you for believing in this eight-year-old and his dreams.”

Here’s the list of all the winners from Friday afternoon’s virtual ceremony:

• Arts and Culture: Dali Museum
• Eats and Treats: Mazarro’s Italian Market 
• Community Conscious (Grassroots): Keep St. Pete Local
• Community Conscious (Large): SPCA Tampa Bay
• Makers and Creators: Eat Your Words Custom Cookies
• Essential ‘Burger: Friends of Strays
• Trailblazers and Change Agents: Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg
• Cool Companies (Small): The Merchant – Purveyor of Local Goods
• Cool Companies: (Large): The Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Rowdies
• New Biz on the Block: Book + Bottle