Erie workers earn less than their Pennsylvania counterparts: Erie business briefs

Employees continue to make less in Erie County compared with those in other metropolitan areas and with workers across the state of Pennsylvania.

A new report from the state Department of Labor & Industry, which details wages for all occupations, shows that the average hourly wage in Erie County was $24.93 in May of 2023. The report takes into account employees in a wide range of professions, including manufacturing, medical doctors and food service.

Erie's wages fall substantially short of the $29.77 average for the state. The average wage in Pittsburgh is $29.60, while the average hourly rate in Philadelphia was $32.97.

The average wage in Gettysburg was $25.35.

Glass Growers Gallery marks big anniversary

∎ Erie's Glass Growers Gallery, which represents more than 90 regional artists and features the work of 100 more, is marking 50 years in business.

The gallery, owned by Emily Ernes, opened a new exhibit on May 4 that celebrates the gallery's 50 years in business, honoring founders Deborah and John Vahanian and 10 artists who have been exhibiting their work there for more than 20 years.

An anniversary party will be held June 1 from 2 to 6 p.m. on the Erie Art Museum patio, featuring food from A Waffle Miracle and drinks from Purrista Cat Cafe. Music and dance events will be held throughout the day.

Limestone shipments increase on Great Lakes

∎More than 2.3 million tons of limestone was shipped on the Great Lakes during April, an increase of 19.9% compared to a year ago.

That's almost 10% more than the five-year average for the month of April, according to a report by the Lake Carrier's Association, an industry group of U.S.-based carriers on the Great Lakes.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Workers in Erie earn less than counterparts throughout Pennsylvania