Saturday, June 13, 2009 was a day of celebration with a Groundbreaking Ceremony followed by refreshments and house tours. Over 80 community leaders, politicians, and volunteers united to commemorate this milestone in the facility's history.

During the ceremony, Architect Garry McAnally said, "the Davis-Shai House is the finest example of Gothic Revival Architecture in Licking County." Expansion to the facility's least historic south side will enhance the architectural style that dates back to the mid-1800s."

Having a vision and daring to dream big dreams were central themes that dominated the addresses. Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission Board Member David Wilhelm also extended a compliment to the City of Heath in his statement, "What gets me excited is when a small town gets its act together and realizes that culture, arts, history, and recreation are the lynch pin of the community and economic development."