Here in Salem, Chris Rasmussen had just opened Hear No Evil on Market and 17th Streets.

"Back then, the home theatre concept simply didn't exist, and car stereos were a new industry," he recalled.

"It was cutting edge to have a cassette deck with a couple of 6 x 9s in your Camaro, or the old bricks and boards entertainment system in your home" Rasmussen said. "Now you can have it all -- a completely integrated system -- with a touch of a button."

Today, Hear No Evil offers complete system integration, including home theatre, HDTV and multi-zone systems for whole-house audio and video, plus lighting, climate and communications, the Internet and more.

For cars, " it's all about integration now: iPods, Blue Tooth, navigation, radar detection, in addition to speakers, head units and amplifiers for hot rods, boats, you name it," Rasmussen explained.

The local store has come a long way from its beginnings in a small, converted gas station.

How exactly did this fledgling specialty store manage to grow--and thrive--in an industry overrun with "big box" merchandisers?

Rasmussen believes the secret lies in his company's approach to business. "When we started, we had a small but effective selection of product, and we tried to be the best at what we do." The same approach holds true today.

"We have the best selection of audio/video components in the greater Salem area, with an emphasis on proper installation and integration," he said. "Whether you want to buy a TV, or need an entire system, we are here to help."

In celebration of 30 years in Salem, Hear No Evil is giving away a flat panel TV with installation, valued at $1,978. Enter to win at store location; no purchase necessary. Drawing will held Saturday, June 7 at 5 p.m. Hear No Evil is located at 2290 Commercial St. SE. For info, call (503) 363-3633.