Good morning, Cedar Rapids.

Girl Scouts have launched a new cookie called Exploremores today — a rocky road-inspired sandwich cookie with chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond crème — that is available online and at local booths, with proceeds supporting Girl Scout Troops through April.

Iowa Workforce Development said the state’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.5% in November from 3.7% in September as 22,400 more workers joined the workforce and 4,600 new jobs were added in health services, wholesale trade and construction while the labor participation held at 67.5%.

A state report has renewed talk on community colleges offering bachelor’s degrees, but Kirkwood Community College said it will focus on current programs to meet local workforce needs.

President Dr. Kristie Fisher explained the college will continue partnering with nearby institutions to support students seeking bachelor's degrees.

Cedar Rapids officials announced a new variable cart program that gives households a choice between 35-, 65-, and 95-gallon carts for garbage collection.

Residents can visit the city's website for details and FAQs.

The Gems of Hope fundraiser, hosted by Nassif Community Cancer Center in Cedar Rapids, offers daffodils, stuffed animals and other items to support cancer patients until Friday, Feb.

6. Community members can purchase items to share hope and resilience.

Chris Thile Concert

7:30-10 p.m. — The Englert Theatre — $30 – $68 — Experience the genre-defying musical genius of Grammy Award-winner Chris Thile in an evening of captivating performances.

Waterloo Black Hawks vs Cedar Rapids RoughRiders

7:05-9:05 p.m. — ImOn Ice — Check the FloHockey broadcast for all the action as the Black Hawks take on the RoughRiders in a thrilling hockey matchup.

Spanish Conversation Practice Meetup

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Vineria Wine Shop — $3 off wine and pizza — Enhance your Spanish skills and connect with fellow language enthusiasts over happy hour specials.

BIRDCHILD Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Ideal Theater & Bar — Tickets available — Experience Birdchild's lush, joyous journey through all your favorite hits.

Men's Caregiver Coffee

10 - 11:30 a.m. — The Chris & Suzy DeWolf Family Innovation Center for Aging & Dementia — Free — A supportive group for male caregivers to share stories and network.

Moonlight Owl Walk

5-6:30 p.m. — Buffalo Creek Park — $5 per adult, $2 per child — Explore the moonlit path in search of chatty owls while learning about their adaptations.

Fireside Circle: The Spirits of Winter

6-8 p.m. — Illuminations — $30 registration — Explore the prominent spirits of winter through Scandinavian, Germanic, and Celtic mythology.

Community Writers Circle

1-2 p.m. — Hiawatha Public Library — Free entry — A supportive environment for adults to hone their writing skills.

Tim's Comedy Show

1:30 p.m. — The Olympic South Side Theater — Tickets available — Experience high-energy comedy from a seasoned performer with a unique perspective on life.

4-Day PMP Exam Preparation Course

9 AM – 5 PM — Iowa Eye Center — Course Fee Applicable — Enhance your project management skills with a comprehensive PMP certification training.