In November 1972, 365 subscribers of Service Electric Cable TV became the first subscribers to Home Box Office. By participating in the launch of the nation's premiere pay television service, the citizens of Wilkes Barre became part of communications history. On the occasion of launching Cinemax, HBO's sister service, HBO acknowledged the pioneering role of the city of Wilkes Barre and Service Electric in the development of cable entertainment and expressed appreciation for their loyal support during the past twelve years.