By Jack Fertig

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAY

Michael Gambon turns 71 on Wednesday. The acclaimed Britsh actor has starred in many film favorites such as Gosford Park in 2001 and last year in The King’s Speech, but he garnered a new generation of fans when he replaced Richard Harris in the Harry Potter film series as Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, who also happens to be gay.

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THIS WEEK

Just before leaving Libra, the sun trines Neptune, prompting sweet romantic dreams, ideals and promises. When Sol moves into Scorpio those promises may prove hard to keep. The test of a relationship is not just in keeping promises, but forgiving the broken ones.

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LIBRA  Sep 23-Oct 22
A creative partnership can become more enduring than expected. Romantic commitment is possible but demands more work. Heartfelt discussions help to clarify illusions.

SCORPIO  Oct 23-Nov 21
Innovation is necessary, but getting too clever only exacerbates existing problems. Keep communications open. If you can’t be friendly, be tactful. Charm works well for you.

SAGITTARIUS  Nov 22-Dec 20
Getting too comfortable with the wrong people tempts you to spill secrets. Focus on where you want to be in five years with the one you love. Follow that inspiration.

CAPRICORN  Dec 21-Jan 19
Have an appropriate outlet for your energy. The more you can sublimate it into your work the better, but be mindful of boundaries. What is more important —your partnership or career?

AQUARIUS  Jan 20-Feb 18
Roleplay with your partner opens up insights. Confusion in other relationships requires a more intuitive approach. Defending your turf at work is necessary. Kind words are more effective.

PISCES  Feb 19-Mar 19
Don’t prolong arguments. The sooner they’re done the sooner you can learn from them. Fantasy play is one way to be intimate with your partner. Sharing  secrets can also prove liberating.

ARIES  Mar 20-Apr 19
Playing too hard leads to injuries and/or fights. Do you really want to annihilate your opponent or are you there to have fun together? Lighten up. You’re taking yourself way too seriously.

TAURUS  Apr 20-May 20
Flirtations lead to something more serious, but take one step at a time. Even if it is a passing fancy, enjoy it while it lasts. Renegotiating loans and debts work in your favor.

GEMINI  May 21-Jun 20
Concern about your health or work makes you defensive. Be diplomatic if you must tell others to mind their business. You need a new view of your problem, based in traditional wisdom.

CANCER  Jun 21-Jul 22
The need to take care of domestic issues feels overwhelming. You’re putting too much pressure on yourself. Structure and discipline slow you down, but are more effective than panic.

LEO  Jul 23-Aug 22
Taking yourself too seriously is sure to lead to arguments. If you’re really so smart, prove it by taking a class in something entirely new, or read a book that will challenge your mind.

VIRGO  Aug 23-Sep 22
Take conversations to new depths. Someone you’re sweet on may be ready to get more intimate. Raise the subject, but be careful and read the signals carefully to know how.

Jack Fertig can be reached at 415-864-8302 or Starjack.com

This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition October 14, 2011.