The 2012 Canoe Journey — an annual gathering of Northwest Native canoe cultures — visits Port Gamble S’Klallam July 20 and Suquamish July 21-22.

The Suquamish Tribe anticipates that it will host 4,000 guests on July 21 and 22. Each day features traditional songs, dances and gifting. The final destination of this year’s Journey is Squaxin Island, with the landing scheduled for July 29.

This year’s theme is “The Traditions of Our Ancestors.”

The Tribe has asked Suquamish Olalla Neighbors, or SON, to help host a potluck dinner on July 22; the Tribe will provide entrees.

Here’s how you can help: 
– Bring a side dish of fruit, salad or vegetables to the House of Awakened Culture, July 22, 4-5:30 p.m. Email soneighbors@gmail.com.
– Help with set-up and serving, 4-7 p.m., on one or both days. Email soneighbors@gmail.com.
– Help with clean-up:  6:30-8:30 p.m., on July 21, 22 on one or both days. Email soneighbors@gmail.com.
– Assist at a recycling and composting station on one or both days. Shifts are two hours. Email Frances Malone for more information: livinonwater2@yahoo.com.