John Butler, who was a recipient of the First Citizen Award along with his wife, Alice, in 2012, congratulates Conlon. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

John Butler congratulates Tim Conlon (left), recipient of the 2024 Telegraph Herald First Citizen Award, during a reception at the Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque. John and his wife Alice were first citizen recipients in 2012. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

The 2024 Telegraph Herald First Citizen Award reception was held on Jan. 30 at the Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Conlon is the CEO of Conlon Construction, which was founded by his grandfather in 1903. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Tim Conlon holds up the 2024 Telegraph Herald First Citizen Award during the reception. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Tim Conlon, recipient of the 2024 Telegraph Herald First Citizen Award, speaks during a reception at the Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Conlon spoke about the many “wonderful people” he’s met throughout the years and how that inspired him toward volunteerism and philanthropy. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Tim Conlon, recipient of the 2024 Telegraph Herald First Citizen Award, speaks during a reception at the Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering

Attendees greet Conlon at the reception. PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Kettering