Local Restaurant Owner Dies; New Phone Scam: The Week In News

BIRMINGHAM, AL — As the Birmingham metro prepares for some potential severe weather due to Tropical Storm Sally, the past week has been eventful, with a popular restaurant owner passing away, a local doctor sentenced for fraud and efforts launched to save two of the Birmingham area's historic theaters.

Also in the news, law enforcement reported a new phone scam in the area targeting elderly citizens.

Here are those and a few more stories that made headlines during the week of Sept. 6-12:

Fundraising Campaigns Launched To Save Iconic Birmingham Theaters

Two of Birmingham's historic and iconic theaters — the Alabama and the Lyric — could face the same fate as many of the country's businesses that have had to shut their doors permanently due to revenue loss from the pandemic.

Jefferson County Doctor Sentenced For Unlawful Drug Distribution

A Jefferson County doctor was sentenced to six years in prison after he pleaded guilty to prescribing controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose and engaging in health care fraud.

Founder of Birmingham's Popular Saw's BBQ Dies

The founder of one of Birmingham's most popular local barbecue restaurant franchises died over Labor Day weekend.

New Scam Targets Elderly Citizens: Sheriff

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office warned residents this week of a scam that has been reported recently that targets elderly citizens.

Tropical Storm Sally: What Alabamians Should Know

Tropical Storm Sally, brewing off the Gulf of Mexico coast, is expected to reach hurricane strength by Monday, according to the National Hurricane Center.