For Friday, May 22, 2026

1 – The U.S. Coast Guard is using autonomous Saildrones on the Great Lakes. 

These are orange surface vehicles propelled by wind and solar power. 

The Coast Guard says the drones will be used from May through October of this year. 

They’re equipped with radar, cameras and AI. They’re also monitored around the clock by human operators who can take control if needed. 

Saildrone sensors are focused on what the Coast Guard calls “maritime domain awareness.” Officials says the drones will provide critical information on vessel activities, including vessels in distress or those conducting illegal operations.

A news release from Saildrone Inc. says 16 of the 33-foot-long drones are out on the Great Lakes and in Northeast regions, also helping with border security. 

…

2 – As gas prices rise, so are electric vehicle sales.

The International Energy Agency says in a new outlook report that global electric car sales are expected to increase again in 2026, reaching 23 million and accounting for close to 30% of all cars sold worldwide.

Last year, a quarter of all new cars sold worldwide were electric. Chinese automakers supplied 60% of the EVs, while European and North American automakers were each responsible for about 15% of global sales.

…

3 – Beach wellness is a couple of weeks away. 

The nonprofit Friends of the Bay City State Park is having its annual fundraiser to benefit the state park beach in Bangor Township on Saturday, June 6. 

Walks and runs are planned in the park and on its trails, located near the shores of Saginaw Bay. Proceeds from the event go to help enhance and maintain the local shoreline and surrounding natural areas within Bay City State Park.

More info is online at FriendsOfPark.org. 

– Mr. Great Lakes is heard Friday mornings in Bay City, Michigan, on Delta College Public Radio 90.1 FM (listen live). Follow @jeffkart on Twitter #MrGreatLakes

-30-