A modest GoFundMe campaign launched by Lopez Island High School senior Saskia Fischer Downey has already surpassed $2,500, earmarking funds to restore the Keaton’s Basketball Court, a beloved gathering spot in Lopez Village. The open‑air court, where Downey has played nearly every day for four years, serves as more than a place to shoot hoops; it is a social hub where neighbors meet, youth practice, and memories of local athlete Keaton Farris linger.
A Court With a Story
Plans for the renovation include adding a fresh concrete surface, repainting the lines, and installing a small storage shed, upgrades that will extend the court’s lifespan and keep it safe for future players. The project aims to honor Farris, a multi‑sport standout who died at 25 while in custody at Island County Jail, and to keep his story in the public eye.
Remembering Keaton Farris
Although the exact cause of his death was ruled as dehydration, the tragedy sparked conversations about health care and oversight in local detention facilities, adding a layer of advocacy to the fundraiser. Photos and details about the campaign are available on the GoFundMe page, where contributors can see the planned improvements and the community’s progress.
Downey’s effort illustrates how a single student’s dedication can transform a simple sports venue into a catalyst for both physical improvement and collective remembrance, reinforcing the court’s role as a cornerstone of island life.