West Point, Neb – The Nebraska Holstein Association recently recognized Greg and Joyce Racicky and family as recipients of the Nebraska Holstein Industry Award for their lifelong dedication, leadership, and service to the dairy industry.
The Racicky family owns Elk-Creek Dairy, southwest of Mason City, where Greg and Joyce have built their lives around Holstein cattle and the dairy community.
Greg’s passion for dairying began in his youth, and after their marriage in 1996, Joyce joined him in building a strong family operation. While their herd has evolved over the years, their commitment to quality cattle and industry involvement has remained constant.
Both Greg and Joyce Racicky have served at high levels in multiple industry groups, including the Nebraska Holstein Board, Nebraska State Dairy Association Board, Midwest Dairy Promotion Board for Nebraska, National Dairy Board, and Cattlemen’s Beef Board.
Joyce Racicky said in a social media post about the award, “…our family was honored to receive the Nebraska Holstein Dairy Industry Award. We are incredibly grateful and appreciative of this recognition. This award wouldn’t be possible without our kids — they are a huge part of what we do and the heart behind our family operation.”
The couple’s four children, Seth, Blake, Chase and Halie were raised in 4-H and FFA and have represented Nebraska at national events such as the World Dairy Expo and the North American International Livestock Exposition. The family has long supported youth by providing cattle for judging contests, hosting clipping demonstrations, and mentoring young exhibitors.
The Racickys have earned multiple Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor honors at the Nebraska State Fair and exhibited numerous Champion and Supreme Champion animals at the county, district, and state levels. More than the banners, they value the relationships, faith and friendships built through dairy.
“As a family, we want to say thank you to all the men and women across Nebraska – and everyone connected to the dairy community – who work tirelessly to support this industry,” said Joyce. “We are honored to stand alongside such an incredible group of people.”
Per the Nebraska Holstein Association statement announcing the award, the commitment of the Racickys to cattle, community, and the next generation truly reflects the spirit of the Nebraska Holstein Industry Award.
