The Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce has announced John and Janet Gless as the 2024 Citizens of the Year. The longtime citrus farmers, agriculture policy, and community advocates will be honored at the chamber's 125th inaugural celebration on Thursday, March 20.
The Glesses, founders of the Gless Ranch Farmer's Market and fruit stands, have been instrumental in preserving and promoting agriculture in Riverside for more than four decades.
As pioneers of citrus farming in Woodcrest, the couple demonstrated the area's agricultural potential in the 1960s. Their advocacy secured crucial water delivery from the Western Municipal Water District, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving farming region. Their successful ventures attracted Orange County investors seeking John's expertise in planting and cultivation.
"Gless Ranch has strived to be at the forefront of agriculture preservation in the greenbelt and Citrus State Historic Park through investment into state of the art techniques and equipment for grove care," said Janet and John Gless in a joint statement. "Whether it be drought, pests or the many other challenges farmers face, modern farming requires advocacy at the local, state and national levels to remain economically viable. While the citrus industry is certainly a part of Riverside's history, it is our steadfast belief and commitment that through innovation and collaboration, the citrus industry is also a vibrant part of Riverside's future."
For 45 years, the couple has served as custodians of the California Citrus State Historic Park, partnering with the state to preserve this regional heritage. Their commitment has helped maintain citrus as one of Riverside's most iconic cultural identifiers.
Beyond farming, the Glesses established a state-of-the-art tree nursery for propagating avocado and citrus trees and have actively raised awareness about agricultural threats, including the Mediterranean fruit fly.
The couple has collaborated with numerous local organizations, including the Janet Goeske Foundation, Loma Linda Children's Hospital Foundation, Mission Inn Foundation, Riverside Art Museum, Riverside Community Health Foundation, and the UCR Citrus Research Board.
Through the Gless Ranch Farmer's Market, they've created partnerships with popular local businesses, providing opportunities for vendors to offer fresh produce, craft beer, artisan foods, and specialty items directly to consumers.
The 125th inaugural celebration will bring together hundreds of business and community leaders to honor the Glesses and celebrate other distinguished honorees. The event will also mark the transition of chamber leadership from Ditfurth to Binkley.
Individual tickets cost $150 per person. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through the chamber's online store at riverside-chamber.com.
The celebration begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.
