weeks, according to owner Rick Olson.

The restaurant will be located at the former site of the Vera P Card outlet near Parliament Street. Mr. Olson is part owner of MR Onions on Par-la-Ville Road. He plans on making The Beach a fast food outlet with an "island theme'' he said yesterday. Sand will be embedded in the floor.

"I am after the cruise ship passengers,'' he said. "It's going to be casual and inexpensive. It's probably going to be the cheapest place on Front Street to have a beer.'' Mr. Olson is renting the 1,700 square-foot location which can cater to an estimated 50 customers. He plans on employing six staff.

John T. Kiernan is opening Studio 55 at The Stables building on Reid St. Mr.

Kiernan said he is currently in the process of renovating the space and hiring staff for the club. He would not comment further about the opening date for the club, or who else was behind the venture.

BUSINESS BUC