What to know before the Child Tax Credit portal opens in coming weeks

With 39 million American families expected to qualify for the expanded Child Tax Credit, millions of parents are awaiting word on how they can make sure they receive the credits once the IRS starts sending out checks on July 15. Along with sending out the checks, the IRS says it will unveil a pair of portals for tax payers by July 1 to use in connection with the credit. While details of how the portals will work haven’t been released, parents can still prepare for how they want to approach the credits ahead of time. There are a handful of things to consider before the portals go live and a decision on how to receive the money is made. READ

As vaccination rates continue to slowly increase, COVID-19 outbreaks, hospitalizations and positivity rates are all on a downward trend in Michigan. For the first time since September, the state is below a 3% positivity rate as a seven-day average on coronavirus diagnostic tests. And its seven-day average of new cases is the lowest since early July. Here, we have a closer look at state and county numbers for new cases and positivity rates, as well as statewide numbers on hospitalizations, deaths and vaccinations. MORE

►COVID-19 outbreaks decline 24% in Michigan, per this week's report
►Why is it difficult for some to ditch the mask post-vaccination?

Michael Brockers leading the way for Detroit Lions' new attacking defensive front

The Matthew Stafford trade was among the biggest moves around the league this offseason. But it wasn’t the only trade swung by new Lions general manager Brad Holmes. Heck, it wasn’t even the only trade he swung with the Los Angeles Rams. Defensive tackle Michael Brockers was acquired in a separate trade with Los Angeles, and figures to play an important role in Detroit’s renovations along the defensive line. “Look, there are a number of reasons of why we made the trade that we did for this guy,” head coach Dan Campbell said. “Aside from the fact that he’s a hell of a player, he just does things right. He handles his business." READ
►Detroit Lions sign ex-Packers linebacker Reggie Gilbert

Some are downright funny. Others are inspirational. Graduation cap messages from Jackson-area commencement ceremonies bring a wide range of reactions. Some look back at the high school journey. Some look forward to future college and career plans. Others honor those who have died who have touched their lives. And there are many that thank mom and dad. Whatever the grad decides to do with the cap, they sure are creative. Congratulations to all the graduates from the Class of 2021 across Michigan. TAKE A LOOK
►School financing report updates cost of educating Michigan students in post-COVID world