Here are four updates for those interested in recreation and community spaces in Cedar Park and Leander:

1. Leander senior center to open in January
The city of Leander plans to open its new senior center in January. City Manager Todd Parton said the city is planning on holding a ribbon-cutting in January and a formal dedication ceremony later in the year, likely March.

2. Twin Lakes Family YMCA expansions slated to open by summer
Two major projects at the Twin Lakes Family YMCA in Cedar Park, the Avery Family Pavilion and the Orr Family RCI Adventure Course, are slated to open at the end of May.

3. Cedar Park eyes 2027 completion of pedestrian bridge
The city of Cedar Park expects to complete a pedestrian bridge connecting Lakeline Park to the Twin Lakes Family YMCA campus by the end of 2027.

4. Future uncertain for Leander Municipal Athletic Complex
The future of the planned Leander Municipal Athletic Complex is uncertain after the design process identified significant challenges with regard to water.

Creative 3D Technologies, a manufacturer in the medical, aerospace, defense and industrial sectors, is bringing its headquarters to Cedar Park as part of an economic development agreement with the city. 

The overview: The Cedar Park City Council approved an economic development agreement with the technology manufacturer Dec. 18, promising up to $400,000 in incentive payments and rebate of all or some of the sales tax generated by a facility located in the city limits through 2030.

Several municipalities in Williamson County restrict the use of fireworks to enforce public safety ahead of the New Year's holiday, according to a county news release.

The details: Williamson County residents may not set off fireworks within city limits, in Williamson County parks, near Independent School Districts or within 5,000 feet of those boundaries.

Why it matters: Fireworks sales began Dec. 20 in preparation for New Year's Eve. Williamson County urges the public to practice safe use of fireworks where they are allowed including:

• Purchasing fireworks from reputable sellers 
• Keeping children and pets away from fireworks 
• Lighting fireworks outdoors, on a flat surface, and away from homes, buildings, dry leaves and grass
• Following label directions, instructions and warnings 
• Disposing of fireworks properly 

David Boren, vice president of Chisholm Trail Financial Group providing financial services in Central Texas, spoke with Community Impact about best practices for estate planning. He has 40 years of experience as a certified financial planner.

What are the most common mistakes people make when estate planning?
The state intestate laws say that if you don't have a will, then if you have a spouse, significant other or someone that you are in a legal relationship with, 50% goes to them. And for any children, 50% goes to the children whether you want it to or not. So it's important that someone take the steps necessary to start this process.

What are some things that people should know when starting their estate planning?
How do you want your assets distributed?
And, what's the most efficient way to distribute them without leaving a lump sum to the IRS?

How can families help each other during the estate planning process?
Ask the question. Don't be afraid to say, “What have you done?”

With digital technology now integrated into much of everyday life, many studies have shown that the use of smartphones, social media and online gaming take up hours of Americans’ daily routine.

While these devices have transformed how people communicate, work and relax, their widespread use has prompted growing discussions about excessive use, technology dependence and the benefits of disconnecting.

What's happening: According to the Center for Internet & Technology Addiction, 85% of Americans go online daily and, in a survey, 31% of American adults say they’re online “almost constantly.”

Today, the World Health Organization recognizes a type of technology addiction known as “gaming disorder,” which is on its official disease classification list. Furthermore, the WHO has signaled that problematic use of social media has been associated with less sleep, potentially impacting adolescents’ overall health and academic performance.

As these issues gain more public recognition, organizations such as Omega Recovery in Austin are offering programs to help people gain control over their digital habits.