BIRTHDAY GAL: Actress Lauren Velez was born in Brooklyn, New York City, on this date in 1964. This birthday gal has starred as Maria LaGuerta on "Dexter" since 2006. Velez previously starred on the series "Oz" and "New York Undercover." She's also played recurring roles on "Ugly Betty" and "Num3ers." Velez' film work includes "I Like It Like That," "City Hall" and "Prince of Central Park."

ARIES (March 21-April 19): No matter how special you are, it is still necessary to follow the rules. Taking the middle path can keep you out of harm's way. Remain stoic even if others seem determined to throw down the gauntlet.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Take it easy; trust that things will fall in place without added input from you. Pushing to close a deal now could create unwanted tensions. Give others the benefit of the doubt as you wait for better timing.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Needless worry about losing a few cents merely aggravates a situation. Don't take any important steps right now - especially regarding finances, as the competitive edge in the air could cause misunderstandings.

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CANCER (June 21-July 22): The faster you pedal, the less you progress. It isn't wise to get into debates or disagreements now. Suggestions to improve efficiency can be seen as criticisms - and can turn toxic if taken to heart.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Clear the desk. You may be called upon to cope with a backlog of duties and obligations or must organize a pile of paperwork. Take care of past obligations, but accept changes that improve your life

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Cash acts like those jumping beans. It can leap out of your pocket unpredictably. Avoid impetuous purchases and wait for better timing to enter into agreements or make major investments.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Bending over backward to please others creates an awkward position. If a key relationship is at a crossroads, don't choose a new direction. Sit tight; conditions will improve if you leave well enough alone.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Socialize with peers, but maintain some distance. The new contacts you make now could prove fickle or exasperating. Pay attention to insights about handling money, but do not act on them.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don't sweat the small stuff. Striving for perfection is admirable, but sometimes you simply must be gracious enough to overlook small, inconsequential flaws. Lock up your piggy bank.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don't be prodded into impulsive action by unfounded fears. A favorite partner who might seem preoccupied or distant is working behind the scenes to enrich your joint bank account.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don't make any waves that could drown your chances to get ahead. Tackle baffling problems or work by yourself. You can pinpoint the source of trouble, but should bide your time before acting.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Not every door leads to opportunity. If you suffer from an uncontrollable urge to seek greener pastures, remember that the gate might lock behind you. Outside influences require your undivided attention.

IF NOVEMBER 2 IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: You are a bit of a romantic at heart, and may be somewhat gullible when flatterers knock on your door. Nevertheless, you can look forward to a peaceful coming year. Emerging opportunities that pop up between now and the end of December will point you in a fruitful direction. You might have a chance to enhance both your self-esteem and popularity, as well as fatten your piggy bank. Any situation you have not dealt with fully or honestly, may need your attention next May so be careful to not start anything you can't finish. In July shifting circumstances will put a new light on important matters in your life.

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