Heart Link welcomes new spouses to Air Force Published Feb. 18, 2011 By Kelly Deichert Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Heart Link is more than an orientation on being an Air Force spouse. It's an opportunity to meet other spouses and learn more about the Maxwell and Gunter communities. "People really enjoy it and take a lot from it," said Chloe Gibbs, the event organizer. Heart Link is held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The program is free and includes lunch and child care. Ms. Gibbs, the information and referral consultant for the Airman and Family Readiness Center, said the program is geared toward new spouses, but all spouses are welcome to attend. "There's always something to learn," she said. The event will include speakers from base agencies, games and prizes, and a spouses' panel. This is a chance "to speak to someone who's been doing this for a while and knows the ins and outs," Ms. Gibbs said. Speakers will discuss a variety of topics, including protocol, legal assistance, chapel, education, mental health and youth centers. Spouses will learn about different acronyms, including LES (leave and earning statement) and EDIS (Educational and Developmental Intervention Services). Representatives from Tricare will provide information regarding enrollment, dental care, medical treatment and more. "They get a million questions," Ms. Gibbs said. Col. Brian Killough, the 42nd Air Base Wing commander, will hand out Heart Link coins to the participants. Spouses also get a handbook, pamphlets and fliers full of information. To register for this program, contact Ms. Gibbs at 953-2353 by Wednesday. The Airman and Family Readiness Center offers Heart Link quarterly, and the next session is June 17.