For Le-Ann Kropa, it was love at first sight.

A summer employee with the city of Lewiston’s landscape crew, she and co-worker Mark Eustis were at Roak’s scanning flowers for city beds when she spotted it: purple oxalis.

“They really are eye-catching,” she said of the deep purple shamrock. “I told Mark we had to put them somewhere.”

Its shade-loving nature made the front of city hall a perfect spot, since the sun rarely penetrates the shadows cast by tall buildings and mature shade trees. Surrounded by hosta and elephant ears, the purple flowers are a real standout.

City arborist Steve Murch said he’s gotten compliments on the unusual plant. He credits Kropa and Eustis with taking the plunge and planting an untested flower (although it’s clear he still has a soft spot in his heart for the carpet of coleus that has blanketed the entrance to city hall in previous years.)

“We’re the department that gets all the compliments,” he said, smiling. “It’s our job to beautify the city.”

– Carol Coultas
Buff patriots

Paradise Salon & Spa is showing its true stripes this week and they are clearly red, white and blue.

The Union Street spa is offering free manicures, pedicures and mini-facials to military personnel and their dependents on Sunday, July 6, in a tribute to Independence Day and those who serve.

“Everyone in my family is in the military,” said owner Jennifer Gay. “Whatever we can do to support those who are serving, we will try our best.”

When Gay lived in Washington, D.C., she volunteered her services weekly at Walter Reed hospital to help patients feel better, said her husband, Chris.

“This is just her way of giving back,” he said.

Military IDs are required and it’s first-come, first-served from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information is available at www.paradisesalonspa.com or 777-3939.

– Carol Coultas