KLIN sister station KFGE-FM, Froggy 98, has been named one of five finalists for the 2026 National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Radio Award for Country Station of the Year. The NAB announced the finalists Wednesday during a livestreamed presentation.
Froggy 98 Program Director Cory Edmonson said the station decided to pursue the national award after receiving recognition from the Nebraska Broadcasters Association and country-music industry organizations. “We thought, why not go for a national award?” Edmonson says. “We got nominated, and it’s a completely huge honor. It feels great just knowing that we work for a great team, great company and great coworkers that can get the job done.”
Froggy is competing against KCLR-FM in Columbia, Missouri; KIKV-FM in Alexandria, Minnesota; KKBQ-FM in Houston; and WUSY-FM in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Edmonson says the Marconi judges consider more than what listeners hear over the air. A station’s community involvement is also an important part of the selection process.
“It’s one thing to play music, but it’s another thing to get involved in the community and be part of promotions,” Edmonson says. Froggy’s community work includes partnerships with the St. Jude and Team Jack radiothons, weekly features with the Capital Humane Society, holiday charity campaigns and appearances at county fairs. The station also supports several University of Nebraska programs and events.
Edmonson says that local commitment is an important part of Froggy’s identity. “We try to get involved in the community. We try to go out and get involved in community events.” Froggy also recently conducted a “Toy Story 5” toy drive benefiting local nonprofit organizations. Edmonson said the station’s charitable campaigns help generate both monetary donations and needed items.
Edmonson believes Froggy’s selection reflects the strength of radio broadcasting in Nebraska and throughout the central United States.
“Looking at the other nominations and looking at people that are finalists for this category and other categories as well, it does really say something about the health of radio broadcasting in this particular area,” Edmonson said.
The winners will be announced October 20 during an awards dinner at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.