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Palisades’ Real Estate Values Show Resiliency Following Wildfires smmirror.com
March 7 - March 13, 2025 Volume CXXIII Issue 214
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Acclaimed French Bakery to Expand to Santa Monica The expansion to Santa Monica marks the latest chapter for the bakery, which has been recognized for its buttery, flaky croissants by food publications
A French bakery is set to open in Santa Monica, bringing its acclaimed pastries and artisanal bread to the city. A “Coming Soon” sign on the door of the former Antequera Bakery at 1704 Ocean Park Blvd. announces the arrival of Des Croissants Paris, a boulangerie-patisserie founded by Parisian-born baker Samuel Manar.
Des Croissants Paris has built a loyal following at farmers markets across Southern California and at its Culver City storefront, which opened in 2023. The bakery is known for its meticulously crafted croissants, baguettes, and traditional French pastries, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and classic baking techniques. Manar describes his bakery as an homage to French craftsmanship, blending authenticity with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. “Each bite carries the essence of authentic French baking, transporting you to the streets of Paris,” the company states on its website. The expansion to Santa Monica marks the latest chapter for the bakery, which has been recognized for its buttery, flaky croissants by food publications, including LA Eater. While an official opening date has yet to be announced, the new location is expected to offer a similar selection of fresh pastries, bread, and sandwiches that have made Des Croissants Paris a sought-
after destination for pastry lovers. Des Croissants Paris currently operates a storefront in Culver City and continues
to sell its baked goods at farmers markets throughout the region, including in Studio City, Mar Vista, and Santa Clarita.
Santa Monica Seeks Applicants for Landback & Reparations Task Force The task force will examine historical harms experienced by marginalized communities and develop recommendations for restorative justice policies
Santa Monica is now accepting applications for its newly established Landback & Reparations Task Force, following unanimous approval by the City Council earlier this month. The task force will examine historical harms experienced by marginalized communities and develop recommendations for restorative justice policies. The city is inviting community members and experts in racial and restorative justice to apply for one of 11 seats on the task force, which will report directly to the city manager. Task force members will conduct
historical research, engage in public truth-telling initiatives, and explore both monetary and non-monetary reparations options. Their findings will be compiled into a Community Harms Report and a final set of policy recommendations for City Council consideration. Applications are due by March 21, with selections finalized by March 28. The task force will convene virtually starting in April and meet biweekly through June 2026. Participants will receive a $2,500 stipend upon completion of their term. In addition to task force membership, residents can apply to join subcommittees focused on historical research, fundraising, and community education. The initiative is part of Santa Monica’s broader commitment to equity and reparative justice, particularly in light of the city’s history of displacing communities of color through redevelopment projects. One of the key cases under review is the 1957 seizure of property owned by Black entrepreneur Silas White, who had planned to open a Black beach club at 1811 Ocean Avenue. The city used eminent domain to take the land, citing urban renewal policies that intensified racial segregation. Today, the site is partially leased to the Viceroy Hotel, generating revenue for the
city while White’s descendants remain uncompensated. Last year, the Santa Monica City Council voted to explore possible restitution for White’s family, marking a step toward addressing past injustices. The newly formed task force will build upon these efforts by investigating additional cases of displacement and considering reparations policies that could include land returns, financial compensation, or other restorative
measures. City leaders are encouraging residents to participate in the process, whether by applying for the task force, joining a subcommittee, or serving as a Landback & Reparations Ambassador to help disseminate information and counter misinformation. Applications close at 8 a.m. on March 21.