Submitted Photo Approximately 50 people participated in last year’s Stop 22 Walk in Silver Creek to support suicide prevention among veterans.

SILVER CREEK — Silver Creek’s streets will be packed with guests who will be walking with a purpose.

The fourth annual Stop 22 Walkathon is Saturday, beginning at 10 a.m. through the village streets. The walk will begin and end at Post 6472. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the cost of registration, along with donations made at the event, will benefit suicide prevention efforts.

The event is organized by the Silver Creek VFW Auxiliary Post 6472, spearheaded by President Deanna Borrello.

The route is designed to last approximately 22 minutes to signify that 22 veterans are lost to suicide each day, according to states that report veteran suicide rates. The month of October is highlighted by the VFW overseers at the state level as a time to raise awareness for the issue of veteran suicide.

“If you’ve never participated in the Walk 22, I would encourage you to come out and do it,” Village Trustee Sandra Lindstrom said. “It’s a nice walk, and you’re in and out of there before you know it.”

Also of note, over the next several weeks, the village will be evaluating plans submitted on behalf of the Hanover Little League for improvements to its field on Ward Avenue. Caroline Mullen, Hanover Little League President, detailed the plans at a recent meeting.

The Little League hopes to convert its field from traditional Little League dimensions to a modified field to allow for a 50-foot distance from the pitcher’s mound to home plate and 70-foot base paths. The infield arc would be increased to accommodate for the longer base paths, while the pitching area will be flattened and a portable pitcher’s mound will be installed to allow for traditional use, as well as the modified use to allow for older age groups to better prepare for high school regulations.

The parking lot expansion project appears to still be in progress, as leveling is still needed, along with drainage issues, especially in left field. The batting cage will also be moved to alleviate the concern of players walking through an active parking lot during events.

Mullen stated the majority of the work will be done by volunteers, and that most of the materials will be covered by the Little League. The Hanover Highway Department will assist with equipment to complete the work.

Mullen also hopes to establish facility use guidelines and requirements to make sure the cost of maintenance and liability concerns are addressed. The field has gained attention throughout the community since its “substantial” upgrades in 2020.

“There is a significant cost that goes into maintaining that ball field. We’re just looking for a way to not only offset the liability, but also the cost that goes with it,” Mullen said.

The next meeting of the Silver Creek Village Board is Monday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Village Hall.