The countdown to the 97th Illinois State FFA Convention continues, along with practices to perfect every skit, speech and stage cue.

Understanding Illinois property tax calculations is complex and confusing. Properties such as personal residences are taxed based on fair market value.

Participants will hear from experts at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

The Conservation Stewardship Program is sometimes misunderstood. It is perceived by some as complicated or not for small operations — and neither of those perceptions is true.

The national average diesel price rose 6 cents a gallon to $3.536, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration data.

The national average diesel price has dropped each week since April 14, totaling 16.9 cents.

Corn planted reached 82%, compared to 78% last year, and the five-year average of 87%. Soybeans planted reached 75%, compared to 70% last year, and the five-year average of 75%.

Corn planted reached 76%, compared to 70% last year, and the five-year average of 79%. Soybeans planted reached 71%, compared to 66% last year, and the five-year average of 69%.

Third- through 12th-graders will learn how drones fly.