John Schoolman's life testifies to the importance of staying active both mentally and physically. An avid walker, he gathers hardwood and sumac sticks, which he wood-burns, paints, and transforms into unique and colorful walking sticks. He began crafting walking sticks after he retired and his wife passed away. While many of his canes have themes, such as "The Presidents," or a "Family Tree,"some are based around a favorite poem or saying.