Distance education is a new technology that can be utilized for bring programs to those who may be unable to participate in AME due to time constraints, lack of financial support or other obligations. In 1997 the AME held in Boston, Mass. had approximately 8700 attendees which represents 7.7% of the total membership of ADA.Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service developed a distance education model to bring a sampling of ADA-AME to members in the nine District Dietetic Associations in Indiana. A four hour seminar was presented by RD's who had attended AME covering a variety of topics including research findings, practice points, educational guidelines for consumers, patients and other professionals, and motivational topics. A syllabus containing handout materials was sent to the sites for each registered participant.The session was broadcast by one way satellite transmission from the university. An extension educator and the district president coordinated activities at the sites. During the broadcast communication between the participants and presenters was established via fax machine, telephone bridge lines and 800-call-in lines.There were 215 participants with 180 RDs requesting CE hours. On a scale of 1-5 with 5 being excellent 84% of the participants rated the overall evaluation of the session at 4.3, the site location and preparation at 4.7, picture and sound at 4.5 and the ability to ask questions at 4.5. When asked if they would attend a similar session next year, all but two responded 'yes'.Distance education can open up opportunities for CE to reach members in an efficient, cost effective way at sites and times that are convenient in the busy life of so many professional today.