The Morning Lions Club has branched out to include an Evening Lions group.

The members thought it might be more convenient for those who wanted to join a service club, but didn't have time during the day, said Royce Helmbrecht, a Morning and Evening member. Some members also see it as a way for couples to participate in the club together, he added.

The Morning Lions Club meets at 7 a.m. and the Austin Lions Club meets at noon twice a month. The Evening Lions Club meets at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of every month in the Teddy Roosevelt Room at the Holiday Inn.

The group has eight members, but is looking to expand. It cannot be considered a separate club from the Morning group until it has 20 or more members, Helmbrecht said.

The Lions Club is a service organization that raises money for national and statewide causes such as the Eye Bank Program at the University of Minnesota and the Diabetes Fund and local groups such as the Salvation Army.

The Evening Group is planning a dinner for Austin High School National Honor Society students in April. The group plans to ask for corporate sponsorship for a student's meal. Any donations larger than $10 will go into a scholarship fund, said Terry Zabel, an Evening and Morning member.

"They're really excited about us doing this and working with them," Zabel said about the National Honor Society adviser and students.

The Evening Club welcomes new members. Anyone 18 and over may join. Cost for membership is $20 every three months, or quarter.

To join or for more information call Royce Helmbrecht at 433-4898 or Terry Zabel at 437-8299.

Cari Quam can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail at :mailto:cari.quam@austindailyherald.com