On Thursday, March 22, 2018, Marquette University, Avenues West Association and Near West Side Partners presented a luncheon entitled, “A View From The Top: Five Decades of Common Council Leadership,” at the Tripoli Shrine Center, 3000 West Wisconsin Ave. The luncheon was a historic conversation with the past and present African American Common Council presidents, including current Common Council president Ashanti Hamilton (2016-present); and former Common Council presidents Willie Hines (2004-2016), Marvin Pratt (2000-2014); and Ben Johnson (1976-1980). The panelists shared their insights from their time serving the city of Milwaukee; major events that had shaped them and the city while serving; and what they would like to see in its future. Pictured at the luncheon are (from left) Ben Johnson; Marvin Pratt; Willie Hines; and Ashanti Hamilton.