Thanksgiving is a day when we share what we are thankful for in life. Russ Maiden was thankful for many things, including his many friends, family and the sport of bowling.

For the past eight years, the Russ Maiden “Turkey Tap” has invited families and bowling enthusiasts to begin their Thanksgiving Day with donuts, coffee and the sport that Maiden loved.

Maiden dedicated 60 years of his life to bowling, from his teenage years, until his death in 2011.

“Russ meant a lot to all of us,” said Wayne Hathcock, a manager at Beaver-Vu Bowl. “His passing left a hole in our hearts.”

Maiden worked with various bowling centers throughout the Dayton area and was a part-owner of the Centerville lanes until it closed. He came to Beaver-Vu Bowl seven years ago, bringing the Turkey Tap with him.

“Russ was an integral part of the tournament and the bowling center,” said Hathcock. Maiden worked hard to promote youth bowling, as well as developing concepts for other tournaments, including the Jingle Bells No-Tap and the Super Bowl No-Tap.

The Turkey Tap began as a small tournament with about 50-60 bowlers and has grown to host almost 300 bowlers as of last year.

“Russ wanted to make sure everyone always had a good time,” said Hathcock.

After Maiden’s death, the tournament was officially named in his honor and dedicated to his memory. Maiden’s drive and encouragement has inspired many new growth efforts at Beaver-Vu, said Wendy Figer, the General Manager.

“When you met Russ, it was like you were instantly his best friend,” said Figer.

This year, Maiden’s life will once again be celebrated on Thanksgiving morning. There is however, one new tradition that was initiated last year. The tournament now culminates in a toast to the man responsible for it.