Serving up pride: Crook County Culinary Team honored with ‘Free Beef’ sendoff before Nationals

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Community pride was piping hot at Abby’s Legendary Pizza Monday night, where Crook County High School’s culinary team was celebrated ahead of their trip to Nationals in Baltimore.

In true Prineville tradition, the evening included a “Free Beef” giveaway — a nod to a practice started by Les Schwab back in 1964. This time, it was Abby’s Legendary Pizza keeping the tradition alive, awarding the student chefs $250 worth of beef from Erickson’s Thriftway.

The night was filled with support, laughter and encouragement. As the team prepares to represent their school and community on a national stage, they were sent off with heartfelt advice: Dream big, embrace mistakes, and carry the spirit of Prineville with them wherever they go.