Just in time for summer fun, nonprofit Oaks Amusement Park in Sellwood, on the waterfront just north of the Sellwood Bridge, is bringing in two new thrill rides for park goers.

A colorful big ride, called “The Disk-O”, offers a combination of rocking and spinning motions, with new pedestal seats, to wow adventurous spirits.

For younger guests and family fun, Oaks offers “The Rockin’ Tug,” a gentler ride that twists and turns as though it’s on the high seas.

Mary Beth Coffey, Senior Manager at The Oaks, says the Tugboat, which has height and size limitations, was dedicated on Preschool Morning, June 19. “The Disk-O will open with a fun ‘Can You Dig It?’ ’60’s party on July 7th (7-7-07), at 7 pm,” she says. “Our local Latin media listeners will dedicate the Disk-O at an event on July 15th.”

“The ’60’s party theme on July 7 will be enhanced by Love beads, a Twist contest, and much more. A classic Ford Mustang will be on display, a face painter will paint Peace signs, and there will also be smiley-face balloons. A guest DJ from the new oldies radio station, K-HITS 106.7, will play hits from the ’60’s and ’70’s,” she adds.

Latin Fiesta Days are scheduled for June 24th, July 15th, and August 12th. “On July 15th we’re having Latin-style entertainment at 7 pm,” says Coffey. “There will be Latin dance, bands, karaoke, and other activities. During the summer we’ll also feature our usual Party Packages, Rollerskating, Discount Days, and our Fourth of July Fireworks Display. On July 4th, gates open at 10 am, and fireworks are scheduled for 9:55 pm.”

The park’s regular Summer Discount Days run through August 31st, noon till 9 pm. Featured are “Community Newspapers 2-for-1 Tuesdays”, “Comcastic Wednesdays with Radio Disney AM 1640”, “Safeway Family Fun Thursdays”, and “Bi-Mart Blast Pack Fridays”. Preschool Rides run through September 26th, from 9:30-11:30 am. For details and discount specials, visit the Internet website: www.oakspark.com, or call 503/233-5777.

With its stately oak-shaded picnic areas, fun rides, and riverside views and breezes, The Oaks, now a community nonprofit organization, has been a favorite entertainment site for over 100 years. “We celebrated our 102nd birthday on June 2,” notes Coffey. “We’ve also remodeled Snack Stand 3, which now offers fresh pizza and baked pretzels, in addition to ice cream, Icees, nachos, cotton candy and drinks.”