CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Verne Troyer, 41; Dedee Pfeiffer, 46; Grandmaster Flash, 52; Rick Hurst, 64.

Happy Birthday: It’s a new year and a new beginning. Put your talents to the test and start the year off with a bang. Use your intuition to guide you into the future with optimism, patience and the willingness to believe in yourself. Your strength of character coupled with your ability to take on a challenge should win the support needed for whatever race you’ve entered. Your numbers are 6, 8, 11, 20, 32, 36, 44.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may feel dragged down by the past and what you have had to endure but it’s essential that you close the door to the memories that are holding you back. Recognize and appreciate what’s ahead of you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Share your thoughts with the people you see playing an integral part in your life this year. Toast to a healthy, happy and prosperous year, sharing what you hope to achieve.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You need to consider broadening your geographic professional destinations. A chance to sign a contract is apparent if you apply for something out of your jurisdiction. Don’t let obstacles stand in the way of your progress.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Say goodbye to old habits and people and places no longer beneficial to you. Looking ahead may be frightening but, once you make the alterations, you will wonder what took you so long. The future looks bright.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You may need to take a time out to rejuvenate and prepare for the upcoming week. Reflect, rethink and reorganize until you have everything ready to go. Overindulgence of any kind will leave you unprepared and behind schedule. 

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Make decisions, statements and a motion to start the ball rolling. It’s the way you deal with others that will enable you to open doors and set the stage for a stellar year. Practical, patient and pensive will lead to success.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): If you go looking for trouble, you will find it. Steer clear of anyone who is pressuring you or giving you an ultimatum. Emotions will be high and tempers short if you are around people who are overindulgent.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t sit around waiting for things to happen. Make your plans and follow through. A trip or getting together with neighbors or friends will help you clear up some matters that have you concerned and you can begin the new year on the right foot.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Something or someone you least expect will leave you in an awkward position. Be ready to make a few last-minute changes that will protect you from an emotional burden. Creative accounting will buy you time.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Moderation, practicality and keeping things simple will be the answer to a bigger and better future. Changes made now are long overdue but will be certain to bring about positive results as you reach your destination.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It’s time for you to set goals and to put an end to the things that are no longer in your best interest. By helping others, you will generate future favors, enabling you to attain your own personal and professional goals.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The help you offer those in need will be appreciated and reciprocated. Your presence at functions that require time, effort and services will help you get projects (that were impossible in the past) off the ground in the near future.

Birthday Baby: You are sensitive, a planner and a thinker. You stand at the front of the line, willing to take on any challenge that comes your way. You are compassionate.