Placed in the heart of Hobbiton, near the back door of Bag
End and in the middle of the party field, there is the party tree. Where our
historic fellow Hobbits who sailed West once lived, a new center has been
built. Next to the tree, which is properly decorated with its festive ribbons
and laces (and by no means lacks the benefit of several wooden hammocks), a
small table is set with juice, muffins, biscuits and even omelettes, not to
foget all the extra snacks and treats that Hobbits bring along on their own
accord. Day by day all kinds of different people from diverse places of
Middle-earth, along with those who are new to our land and wish to settle
there, visit the Great Tree in order to make themselves known through
introductions and chat. There is always at least one Hobbit waiting to
greet new Hobbits and Visitors alike.
The Use of the Great Tree Center,
what is it for?
Reasons to post in the Great
Tree Center, why should I, a newbie or a visitor, post there?
What
do I do if I have a question for rulers only - should I post in the GTC?
About those who answer - who can do it?
Other sources of information - is there
anywhere to find answers if not in the GTC?
The Use of the Great Tree Center, what is it for?
The Great Tree
Center for Visitors and Newbies is exactly that. It is a place where newcomers
to the Shire can introduce themselves to the rest of the kingdom. They can ask
questions, they can make friends, and recieve guidance. It is also a place for
visitors from other kingdoms to come and say hello to Hobbits. We welcome all those who respect our rules and
abide by our customs, especially if they come bearing tasty treats.
Reasons to post in the Great Tree Center, why should
I, a newbie or visitor, post there?
Well, the GTC (Great Tree
Center) is the first step to get yourself involved in the activities going on
in the Shire by clearing your doubts about them. Questions you want
to ask may be posted, even if you think they are silly or ridiculous.
Remember, a silly question is that which you already know the answer to. By
posting here, you will probably meet some Hobbits or visitors who will interact with you
during your time in the and maybe make some friends. Last, but not least, you may
enjoy the comfyness of the GTC's most famous hammocks and Shire food delights.
What do I do if I have a question for rulers only -
should I post in the GTC?
Not necessarily. Questions
related to asking for permission to open a thread or giving ideas for the
kingdom may be posted in the Mayors' Office, located a few yards from the
Tree. You will probably recognize it because of the distinctive color it
usually has, generally brown. Our rulers, Feiniel (Samwise Gamgee) and Woggy Hardbotom (Pippin Took) will gladly consider your idea and then make a
decision based on what they consider is best. Never be afriad of dropping them
an email as well, as the Mayors Office is in character you might find it
easier to express your idea in an email. Send them to
shirerulers@yahoo.com
About those who answer - who can do it?
Anyone can answer a
question or welcome a newbie at the GTC. However, there is an obvious
requisite that you need to be able to do it: Know the answer. Yes, this may
sound silly, but even though good intentions are deeply appreciated, unsure
answers will only lead to confusion. Furthermore, it is preferred that the one
who answers a question is a Hobbit, as they know all holes, cupboards and
shortcuts existent in the Shire and have less chances to make a mistake.