If you’re feeling jealous of all those southerners voting in the Republican primaries,  here’s your chance to cast your ballot in a couple of contests locally, neither of which include Mitts or Newts.

Voting for the Best of Westchester issue of Westchester Magazine, which will be published in July, is open until Feb. 7.  We filled out the ballot online, and voted for several local favorites from Bronxville, Eastchester, and Tuckahoe.  And yes, even one shop from Scarsdale.  Last year, we lamented how not a single local business was selected in the Readers’ Picks voting, so let’s change that in 2012.

An easy vote is one for Yonkers Engine Company 306, which is competing to win a $25,000 kitchen makeover in the Rescue Remodel Contest sponsored by those zany Swedes at Ikea.  The firehouse, built in 1901, and located in the Nodine Hill section of the city, responds to about 3,100 calls per year, making it the 30^th busiest in the country.  Surely these firefighters deserve to return to a decent kitchen, so vote today, and vote often (you can vote daily through the end of the month).

Speaking of food, have you tried the new Park 143 Bistro yet?  We haven’t, but we’re looking forward to sampling the small plates at the new restaurant, which recently opened in the former Village Café space on the west side of Bronxville.   

The new spot is owned by Wayne Chessler, formerly of Underhill’s Crossing, and its Executive Chef Derek Townsend comes from 10 Downing Street  in Manhattan.  The initial buzz is very, very good on this place.

Finally, if you’re looking to pick up some bargains this weekend, stop by The Reformed Church’s Clothing and Tag Sale on Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.  This is a popular sale among price-saavy fashionistas from all over the county, so get there early for the best selection.

Anything else going on About Town this weekend?  Be sure and let us know in the comments section below!