(Alexandria, Va.) — The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2024 Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant: Central Valley Health District in Jamestown, ND. Central Valley Health District was honored during an awards ceremony at the 2025 World Aquatic Health Conference (WAHC) in Atlantic City, NJ, on January 28, 2025.

Given in the memory of Dr. Robert Neil Lowry, a longtime member of PHTA and the PHTA Recreational Water & Air Quality Committee (RWAQC), this $5,000 grant honors a public health official or department who has made outstanding contributions to advance the public’s health and safe use of recreational water in pools, spas, and waterparks through educational, safety, operational, and technical programs.

Since 1993, Central Valley Health District has been at the forefront of ensuring the safety and well-being of aquatic facility patrons, including those using swimming pools, hot tubs, and interactive water features. Through its innovative efforts, CVHD has demonstrated remarkable foresight, updating and expanding its regulations to address evolving challenges and the latest scientific advancements in aquatic health and safety..

Central Valley Health District has demonstrated its commitment to public safety by conducting regular inspections of licensed aquatic facilities over the past two years, providing valuable guidance on how to implement new requirements, and educating facility staff on the latest aquatic health and safety concerns. Through these efforts, Central Valley Health District has helped to promote a safer recreational environment for thousands of residents in the region.

With the $5,000 grant, Central Valley Health District will develop outreach for licensed facilities, including a newsletter with guidance on regulatory compliance and safety; educate patrons on how to ensure a safe and healthful aquatic experience; and promote general aquatic safety on topics such as drowning prevention, safety equipment, and maintaining the health of aquatic facilities.

“The PHTA RWAQC feels that the Central Valley Health District has done a tremendous job in examining its codes and regulations, updating them to not only include recent scientific advancements, but also to include non-traditional recreational water activities,” says John Weber, Vice Chair of the PHTA RWAQC. “Their outreach and education to their community has been and will continue to be important in maintaining the health of the public while promoting the overall health benefits of swimming. We are happy to award the Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant to such an important advocate for their community.”

Past winners of the Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant include: Craven County Environmental Health, 2023; Fishers Health Department, 2022; City of North Richland Hills, 2021; Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment, 2019; Arizona Department of Health Services, 2018; Quechan Parks & Recreation, 2017; Riverside County California Department of Health, 2016; Columbus Public Health, 2015; Middlesex-London Health Unit of London, Ontario, 2014; Brevard County Environmental Health Services Department, 2013; Sacramento County Environmental Management Department, 2012; Alexandria Health Department, 2011; City of Houston, 2010; and City of Plano, 2009. 

For more information about the Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant, visit phta.org/lowry-grant.

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JAMESTOWN, ND — The Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC) Foundation, the James River Valley Breastfeeding Coalition (JRVBC) and Jamestown Parks and Recreation have partnered to install a new lactation pod at the Two Rivers Activity Center (TRAC). This initiative ensures that employees and TRAC guests have access to a clean, comfortable and private space for breastfeeding or pumping. 

As a hub for family-friendly activities, TRAC welcomes thousands of visitors each year. The addition of a lactation pod demonstrates a commitment to supporting parents and fostering an inclusive environment where breastfeeding is both encouraged and accommodated. 

“Breastfeeding parents deserve safe and comfortable spaces wherever they go,” said Shannon Klatt, a JRVBC member. “By installing this lactation pod, we are removing barriers and making it easier for families to prioritize their baby’s health.” 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first year of life because of its many health benefits for both babies and mothers. However, a lack of private and sanitary spaces can pose challenges for breastfeeding parents, especially in public or workplace settings. Lactation pods provide a solution by offering a quiet, secure environment specifically designed for nursing and pumping. 

This project was made possible through a Strengthening People, Access, Resources, and Knowledge (SPARK) grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota. The JRMC Foundation received the grant to support initiatives that enhance community health and well-being. The grant funding facilitated the purchase and installation of the lactation pod, reinforcing the commitment to supporting breastfeeding families in the Jamestown community. 

This is the second lactation pod installed in Jamestown by the JRVBC. The first was placed at the University of Jamestown’s Newman Arena, ensuring that students, staff and visitors have access to a dedicated breastfeeding space on campus. 

“Supporting breastfeeding-friendly communities is an investment in the health of our children,” said Amy Walters, Jamestown Parks and Recreation director. “We’re grateful for the collaboration that made this project possible and look forward to continuing to create a culture of support for breastfeeding families in Jamestown.” 

For more information about this project or the work of the JRMC Foundation and JRVBC, please visit jrmcnd.com or centralvalleyhealth.org. 

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