La'Keith Asphy and Presidential Transportation: Driving Community at the CD Art Walk
By Omari Salisbury / @Omarisal - #SupportBlackBusiness
The Central District (CD) Art Walk in Seattle is a vibrant celebration of community, creativity, and connection. Every first Friday of the month, the neighborhood transforms into a hub of artistic expression, with local artists, vendors, and businesses opening their doors to the public. However, navigating the expansive CD can be challenging, which is where Presidential Transportation steps in, turning the art walk into an even more accessible and enjoyable experience.
Presidential Transportation, led by President and Owner La'Keith “G Prez” Asphy, has become a vital partner in the CD Art Walk. By providing free shuttle services, they ensure that everyone can participate fully regardless of mobility or location within the district. As Asphy states, "We are providing transportation free of charge to the CD Art Walk... to give back. Because I love giving back. I love being behind my people." This generosity helps bridge the gaps between different art venues and encourages greater community engagement.
The impact of Presidential Transportation's contribution is evident in the positive feedback from the community. Edwin Lindo, co-founder of Estelita Library, acknowledges the significance of this service, saying, "What G Prez did is say, let’s get folks access to get where they need to go. So everyone has access to this beautiful experience… youngsters, older folks, they get to move around when other times they said, maybe I just won’t go out because I can’t walk that much." This sentiment underscores how the shuttle service removes barriers to participation, making the art walk more inclusive.
Furthermore, the party bus shuttle fosters unexpected connections. Takiyah Ward, owner of The Re-Sole 206, notes, "You might end up on the bus with somebody that you never knew and make a connection that way... So it’s really a great way to connect people, and it’s also incredibly convenient." Nansare Consolata, Managing Director at Made Space Seattle, also shares her positive experience: "I was on the bus like it was my first time actually hopping on the bus… It was a vibe… we had music. We were dancing, singing, like it was just great... I actually made some new friends today and got a few contacts."
The transportation service isn't just about getting from point A to B; it's about enhancing the overall atmosphere of the art walk. Asphy describes the experience: "The energy is just incredible, man, like just seeing people smiling, having a good time… this is the central district at its finest." The presence of the buses adds a unique dynamic to the event, transforming it into a mobile celebration.
Ultimately, Presidential Transportation's involvement with the CD Art Walk reflects a deep commitment to community and cultural enrichment. "We're fighting and bringing our folks back, and we're making it cultural. We're making it a movement," Asphy emphasizes. Their efforts not only facilitate access but also strengthen the sense of unity and pride within the Central District and beyond.
