Elsie Foster-Dublin is in chill mode at an after-party for Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel. The Rock-born deputy mayor of Highland Park in New Jersey is here for a short vacay and specifically, to witness last Thursday’s swearing-in ceremony. We caught up with the Jamerican corporate sales manager-turned-12-year political veteran over cocktails.

What are you sipping?

A glass of Merlot.

Socialite or homebody?

Socialite. I have a genuine love of people, new experiences and adventure. It doesn’t happen at home or in a vacuum.

Flats or stilettos?

Definitely stilettos. They are sexy and make your legs look shapely and they do a lot for your confidence.

LBD or jeans?

Depends on the situation. Jeans, if you’re running to the store. But I love my LBD; it’s great for social events and a classic look.What’s in your handbag?

My BlackBerry, Victoria’s Secret lip gloss, Revlon blackcherry lipstick and Strident gum.

Who does your nails?

I do.

Who does your hair?

I have a spa in town I go to named Luxi.

What’s your must-have accessory?

Pearls.

What’s in your car stereo or on your iPod?

Bill Maher and Rachel Maddow on my iPod. Smooth jazz and reggae in the car.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

People who are rude and not considerate of others.

What perfume are you spraying?

I’m allergic to all perfumes. I naturally smell good and they haven’t bottled that one yet. (laughs)

What are your thoughts on the prime minister’s swearing-in ceremony?

I appreciate the fact that it was orderly. I also appreciated Prime Minister Simpson Miller’s message about unity and moving forward for the best interest of the nation.

What prompted you to enter representational politics in New Jersey?

To be honest, I was asked repeatedly but was extremely reluctant. I think as women, sometimes we fear we don’t have the time to handle the kids, home and work. My political start came when I got caught in the crosshairs of a developer in the community who wanted to construct high-end townhouses and I thought it best to preserve the area as green space. I started encouraging residents to call the mayor and I called her myself to make my concerns known. Within 24 hours, she turned up at my front door. Because I was so passionate about the issue, I became the mayor’s designate for the planning board for two years and then I became involved in the Democratic Party.

Which political leader, living or dead, are you most inspired by?

Abraham Lincoln. I fully appreciate his view on fairness, equity and his earnest desire for a transparent government. I also admire his ability to never make rash decisions but to rationally think things through.

What has been your single greatest joy being a deputy mayor?

It would be a Christmas dinner I started seven years ago in my community for seniors who don’t have a family or anywhere to go. It’s an event that stirs economic activity in the town and has everyone involved. It brings together Christians, Muslims, Arabs and Jews and I’m pleased it does that.

What’s your idea of the perfect man?

There is no such thing as perfection. A perfect man is only in our mind’s eye. It really is about working together to have open and honest communication to bring about clarity in your relationship.

What’s your idea of the perfect date?

A stroll on the beach, feeling the sand between the toes, and enjoying fried fish and festival after.

What’s the best piece of advice you have received?

Seek God first and everything else will fall into place.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I want to be able to move back to Jamaica and retire.