Dear Members of the Qalipu First Nation,

I hope this message finds you all in good health and spirits. It is with great honour and sincere appreciation that I write to you today as the Interim Chief of the Qalipu First Nation. On behalf of our entire community, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and admiration to Chief Mi’sel Joe for his remarkable 31 years of dedicated service as Chief of the Miawpukek First Nation.

I had the privilege of joining Chief Joe for dinner as he marked his final day as Chief. On January 17, exactly 31 years to the day since beginning his journey as the leader of Miawpukek First Nation, we shared a meal and reflected on his incredible journey and the path ahead for our respective communities.

Chief Joe has been a mentor to me and so many others throughout the years, always willing to share his wisdom and provide invaluable guidance. I am profoundly grateful to him for his unwavering support and encouragement, and I look forward to continued friendship as Chief Joe embarks on this new chapter in his life.  Please join me in wishing him the best as he enjoys more time with his beloved family and his passion for the outdoors.

We look forward to working with the new Chief and Council of Miawpukek First Nation and we wish Chief Joe the very best in this new phase of his life.