A handful of high school students, one from Carbon County, and four from Monroe County, have been nominated for appointments to the United States Service Academies.

State Rep. Matt Cartwright today announced the nomination of eight students from Monroe, as well as eight students from Carbon and Northampton counties, for the appointments.

Students from the Times News area include:

Janel M. Tracy of Palmerton, a senior at Palmerton Area High School in Palmerton, who is receiving a nomination for the United States Military Academy. She is the daughter of Jamie Lee and Jonice Tracy. She is the President and Editor in Chief for the school newspaper, Treasurer for the National Honor Society, and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America. She also has participated in several events such as the Raise the House 5K, Special Olympics, and the National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony.

Benjamin M. Conklin of Brodheadsville, a senior at Pleasant Valley High School in Brodheadsville, who is receiving the nomination for the United States Military Academy. He is the son of Thomas and Karen Conklin. He is on the Distinguished Honor Roll, and is a voting member on the Committee of Directors. He is also involved in basketball, football, and also track and field.

Joseph L. Phillips, of Brodheadsville, a senior at Pleasant Valley High School, who is receiving the nomination for the United States Naval Academy. He is the son of Joseph and Rose Phillips. Joseph's many achievements include the Good Citizenship Award, a member of SPEAK and National Honor Society member. He is also a participant in cross country, track and field and a Petty Officer for his division of Sea Cadets.

Christopher Schwenck of Brodheadsville, who has been nominated to the United States Naval Academy. He is the son of Eugene and Paula Schwenck. He is the Vice President of the National Honors Society, United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Petty Officer 3rd Class (E-4), and a member of the West End Soccer League. At Pleasant Valley High School he is also the team leader of the Debate Team and Track and Field team.

Matthew C. Vasquez of Brodheadsville, a senior at Pleasant Valley High School, is receiving the nomination for the United States Naval Academy. He is the son of Edison and Elizabeth Vazquez. He is a member of Skills USA, Project Success, and the National Technical Honor Society. He also participates in football, track and field, and cross country.