Corn futures posted gains of 5 to 5 1/2 cents in the nearby contracts. Lower than expected crop ratings were supportive of buying, along with month end position squaring. Most of the Corn Belt states were behind their respective averages for planting and emerged corn, with IA edging slightly higher. Individual state ratings show IN at 43% g/e, with IL 52% and OH 49%. The WCB states were in better condition as expected with NE at 76% and IA at 73% good or excellent.