There is a bit or irony in the annual Steel Valley Super Nationals hot rod event in Salem, Ohio, hosted by Quaker City Drag Strip, this weekend.

The Quakers — a nickname for the Society of Friends religious community who “quaked” at the word of the Lord, and who were prominent in the settlement of the city in 1806 — were known for prayer meetings distinguished by long periods of silence. Now, their fair city is known internationally for an event which features roaring car engines and squealing tires.

Burning rubber is music to the ears of many hot rod fans, and there is plenty of that to like at the Super Nats. But there is also plenty of the more literal music at the event which features fabulous modified automobiles from around the country cruising this town’s streets for four days each spring.

In addition to karaoke and DJs at several businesses, live music — from mariachi and steel drum, to country and rock — is scheduled at eight venues throughout the event; all within easy walking distance of each other.

There are also games, and food (including Haystack breakfasts at the Eagles on N. Ellsworth Ave.), and hot rod chicks.

And for those whose hearts sing for Super sounds, who quake for cacophony, there’s the burn-out pit at Stadium GM Superstore on W. State Street and at the drag strip just north of town; hymns for this car cult’s true believers.