It was a much more low-key affair than the swearing-in Dec. 12 of Reggie Moore, the first African American to serve on the Antioch City Council. But history was also made the following night with the swearing-in of Teri Shaw, the first African American to serve on the Antioch Unified School District Board.

Shaw, a political newcomer who had a strong first-place finish in the November election, placed her hand on a Bible held by her mother, Jacqueline Phillips, as she was sworn in by School Superintendent Deborah Sims, herself the district's first African American superintendent.

Shaw gave a brief speech and acknowledged several of her family members in attendance. "And I'm so proud of her," Shaw's sister Darlene said when Shaw introduced her from the lectern.

Shaw's mother, a retired principal from the Oakland School District, said, "I'll be standing by her side."

Joyce Seelinger was also sworn in to serve another term on the board. Perhaps because she's been here before, she responded with a simple, "Thank you."

Adding to the historic night was the observation by board member Walter Ruehlig, who said, "This is also a rarity in East County - women are a majority on the board." Seelinger and Shaw join Claire Smith to make the female majority on the board.

Several members of the public congratulated both women and welcomed Shaw. William Mims of the Black Political Association noted the historic association and said his group is ready to assist.

Then everybody - at least most - enjoyed coffee and chocolate chip cookies before the board went into a closed session.