Ogle alligators: Glimpse gators in all their glory at these boggy Houston-area locales
Though alligators are plentiful in the rivers, bayous, creeks and backwater sloughs of the eastern third of Texas, the massive creatures can be somewhat elusive. For stellar alligator observation opportunities, try these Texas parks, sanctuaries and wildlife refuges.
U.S. federal prisons are on lockdown after 2 inmates were killed in Beaumont – Houston Public Media
Two people familiar with the matter tell The Associated Press the altercation involved members of the violent MS-13 street gang. The attack is the latest example of serious violence within the beleaguered federal Bureau of Prisons.
houstonpublicmedia.orgUS federal prisons on lockdown after 2 Texas inmates killed
WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal prison system has been placed on a nationwide lockdown after two inmates were killed and two others were injured Monday during a gang altercation at a federal penitentiar[San Marcos, TX] [Hays County news] News San Marcos News, San Marcos Record [Texas State]
sanmarcosrecord.comUTRGV wins fifth straight, sits atop division
Senior Veronika Jandova led the Vaqueros with 15 kills on .500 hitting and four blocks. Sierra Bartley led the Redhawks (3-16, 0-8 WAC) with 16 kills and five blocks. With UTRGV leading 16-11 during the fourth set, the Vaqueros went on a 6-0 run to double up the Redhawks at 22-11. The Redhawks followed with an 8-1 run to pull within 23-19 before a Jandova kill brought the Vaqueros to match point. UTRGV concludes interdivision play at 1 p.m. today against Chicago State.
myrgv.comJustice Department Seeks to Shut Down Texas Return Preparer
The United States has filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas seeking to bar a Beaumont, Texas, tax return preparer from owning or operating a tax return preparation business and preparing federal income tax returns for others. According to the complaint, Johnston filed the fabricated return with the IRS, which deposited the inflated refund with a third-party vendor. According to the complaint, Johnston prepared over 3,100 tax returns in aggregate for tax years 2018 through 2020. As a result, the complaint alleges, Johnston has cost the United States significant losses of tax revenue. Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’ Dirty Dozen Tax Scams, and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant.
justice.govTraces of Texas’ Throwback Thursday: Women Do the Heavy Lifting in Beaumont, 1943
Traces of Texas’ Throwback Thursday: Women Do the Heavy Lifting in Beaumont, 1943A woman moves a pole at the International Creosoting Company in Beaumont, 1943. This job had traditionally been done by men, but the absence of the male workforce due to World War II paved the way for women to assume many such jobs. All I know is that moving poles around in the heat and humidity of Beaumont would be hot, hard work!
texashighways.comAfter slow start, Texas lawmakers pick up the pace on GOP priorities as legislative session passes halfway mark
The optimism comes after a two-week stretch dominated by a tense standoff among the House, Senate and Gov. As of Thursday, more than half — 16 — had at least gotten a committee hearing. Senate Bill 25 would give nursing-home residents the right to have a designated caretaker visit them regularly during a public health emergency. On Thursday, a Senate committee approved legislation — SB 3 — that would overhaul the state’s energy industry. AdBy Friday afternoon, Cain’s bill was rescheduled for an April 1 hearing, according to a committee hearing posting notice.
Push for George Floyd Act during slab ride in Houston
HOUSTON – Over the weekend, there was a call for action to combat police brutality and honor the life of George Floyd. On Sunday, the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats, the Brazoir and Beaumont chapters of the NAACP and other organizations gathered for a slab ride. Several elected leaders were also there, calling on the federal government to pass the George Floyd Act. “Our committee will put on the floor of the House, next week -- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday -- the George Floyd Justice and Policing Act,” said U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Houston). “We will vote on it in the House and with the leadership, my good friend Karen Bass and members of the judiciary committee, we’re here to tell you that bill will be passed.”The slab ride started on Homestead Road near Bretshire Drive in northeast Houston.
Texas House elects Dade Phelan speaker as 2021 legislative session gets underway
State Rep. Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, held a press conference at the capitol to declare that he had enough votes to become Speaker of the House. (Credit: Miguel Gutierrez Jr./The Texas Tribune)AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas House on Tuesday elected state Rep. Dade Phelan as the next House speaker, ushering into office a new leader who will oversee a chamber facing its toughest set of legislative challenges in years against the backdrop of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The House voted 143-2 for Phelan, with four members not voting. The two members who voted against Phelan were GOP freshmen Bryan Slaton and Jeff Cason. Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, replaced former House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, who retired from office thanks to a secret recording scandal that fractured relationships in the 150-member lower chamber.
Police: Beaumont officer shot suicidal man who opened fire
BEAUMONT, Texas (AP) — East Texas police fatally shot a man after he began firing a gun while officers were responding to a call about him being suicidal, authorities said. Officers tried to negotiate with the man, but more than two hours later they called in a SWAT team. The man then began shooting a gun and an officer returned fire, killing him, according to the statement. Police did not release the man’s name, age or the identity of the officer who shot him. No one else was injured during the shooting, which the Beaumont police are investigating.
Police search home of woman found dead inside trunk of vehicle in Beaumont
HOUSTON – The body of a Houston woman was found in the trunk of a car involved in a high-speed chase that ended in downtown Beaumont Saturday morning, according to a release from the Texas Department of Public Safety. Around 8 a.m., the department received a call regarding a reckless driver, who was driving a white car on Interstate 10 in Beaumont. DPS investigators searched the Honda, which is standard procedure after a car crash. Troopers found the body of a woman in the trunk, according to the release. Sunday morning, Houston police were searching a Houston home located in the 4100 block of Maggie St. Police said evidence found inside the car in Beaumont led them to the residence.
Texas GOP Chair says party will not "support or accept" Republican Rep. Dade Phelan as next House speaker
Phelan said last week he had support from a "supermajority of the Republican caucus" and a "broad coalition of support" from Democrats. West does not get to vote on the next speaker since he is not a House member. And past speaker candidates, including current Republican House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, who will retire at the end of his term, have claimed support from Democrats in their bids to help get to a majority of votes needed to preside over the House. Phelan, who has served in the lower chamber since 2015 and chairs the powerful House State Affairs Committee, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Phelan filed paperwork to run for speaker after a group of GOP members gathered and picked the lawmaker as their preferred candidate.
State Rep. Dade Phelan has necessary votes to become Speaker of the Texas House
State Rep. Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, announced today that he has adequate votes to become the next speaker of the Texas House, according to the Texas Tribune's Cassandra Pollock. Phelan's main competitor for the position is state Rep. Trent Ashby, who said he's not backing down. REPUBLICANS WIN TEXAS: Democrats' hopes dashed: Republicans remain in control of TexasIn a press conference at the Texas Capitol, Phelan claimed victory. He also mentioned that he has a "supermajority of the Republican caucus," as well as a "broad coalition of support" from Democrats. While Phelan has claimed an early victory, the GOP caucus bylaws mention that the caucus should meet to vote to back a candidate.
chron.comState Rep. Dade Phelan says he has votes to become speaker of Texas House
State Rep. Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, on the House floor in 2019. Credit: Juan Figueroa/The Texas TribuneState Rep. Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, announced Wednesday he has the votes needed to become the next speaker of the Texas House. "The race is over," Phelan said at a noon press conference at the Texas Capitol. On Tuesday night, one Republican in the race, state Rep. Geanie Morrison of Victoria, announced she was backing Ashby for the job. Phelan has served in the House since 2015 and is currently chair of the powerful House State Affairs Committee. He was a top lieutenant of House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, a Republican who will retire at the end of his term thanks to a political scandal last summer.
State Rep. Dade Phelan files to run for Texas House speaker
At right, Chairman Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, listens to testimonies during a State Affairs committee hearing on Feb. 27, 2019 Credit: Emree Weaver/The Texas TribuneState Rep. Dade Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, filed Sunday evening to run for Texas House speaker, he confirmed to The Texas Tribune. Phelan's filing comes after a group of House Republicans gathered Sunday afternoon and picked the lawmaker as their preferred speaker candidate, according to multiple people familiar with the meeting. During that hours-long meeting, some members expressed concern over holding a vote on a speaker candidate before each party knows the partisan breakdown in the 150-member House. House members will vote on the next speaker on the first day of the 87th legislative session in January. Phelan, who has served in the lower chamber since 2015, chairs the powerful House State Affairs Committee.
Biden campaign launching bus tour across Texas shortly before Election Day
Joe Biden / TwitterWith less than a week before Election Day, former Vice President Joe Biden is making a big push in Texas. The Biden campaign is launching a bus tour across the state, stopping in 14 cities over three days. On Thursday, the bus will stop in Houston at 1 p.m. The tour also includes stops in Missouri City, Beaumont, Port Arthur and Corpus Christi.
chron.comAcademy selling official Houston Astros AL Championship apparel immediately following Game 7 clinch
HOUSTON – If the Houston Astros win Game 7 of the American League Championship, the Astros championship merchandise will be immediately available to purchase at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores. The 32 stores in the Houston and Beaumont area will have apparel for sale. While the items can also be purchased online at academy.com.
Houston hospitals bracing for the storm in the midst of pandemic
While at least seven local hospital campuses are now closed, at least three emergency rooms remain open. They do not anticipate the closed hospital campuses, which include outpatient, wellness centers and orthopedic hospitals, to reopen until at least Friday. Flood gates securedOfficials at the Texas Medical Center in Houston closed the flood gates Wednesday afternoon. Per emergency recommendations, the metal doors close eight hours before any storm makes nearby landfall. Research and our teaching activities within this building were completely halted for many weeks,” said Scott Patlovich, UT Health Assistant VP Environmental Health and Safety.
Gold in secret vault is traced to Hugo Chvez's former nurse
So Daz allegedly turned to one of the oldest ways of moving vast sums of money anonymously: buying gold. She radically denies having had any gold ingots or any bank account in Liechtenstein, Oliver said. Wire transfers from Panamanian shell companies were routed through CBH to Greenhill and Amblia's accounts at the state-owned Liechtensteinische Landesbank in 2012, according to the Liechtenstein court. However, U.S. prosecutors in their exchanges with Swiss authorities in 2018 suggest the bank had itself been defrauded by Beaumont. The gold bars allegedly belonging to Daz represent just a small fraction of the total amount looted from Venezuela.
Thousands of Texas prisoners still have the coronavirus. More than 25% of inmates at four units are infected
Two Texas prisons each have more than 670 inmates with active coronavirus infections, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, the highest counts seen at any state lockup since the pandemic began. At the massive Coffield Unit in East Texas, 753 inmates recently tested positive — 19% of prisoners there, according to TDCJ data. Aside from Stiles, three other state-run prisons and jails had at least 25% of their inmates with active coronavirus infections Monday. Since March, more than 12,000 Texas prisoners and 2,100 TDCJ employees at dozens of prisons have had confirmed infections of the new coronavirus. TDCJ began testing all inmates at dozens of units in mid-May, with more than 100,000 coronavirus tests on inmates completed by June 10, according to agency reports.
Beaumont Mayor criticized for being spotted at nail salon amid coronavirus pandemic
The mayor of Beaumont was catching some backlash after a photo on social media appeared to show her “getting a manicure” at a nail salon amid the coronavirus pandemic and stay at home orders. Mayor Becky Ames responded to 12News after being questioned about the photo that caused a lot of “chatter” on social media. @GregAbbott_TX are you aware that Beaumont, TX Mayor Becky Ames violated your order about nail salons today when the Nail Bar in Beaumont opened to allow her to “buy product”? pic.twitter.com/9GFt6Oosn2 — Gregory Rice (@LetsGoStros2019) April 22, 2020Ames and the nail salon owner explained to the news station that they were removing an old manicure set. According to 12News, the nail salon owner said she left out a bowl of acetone for Ames to remove the set herself.
Our hurricane history and the 2020 hurricane forecast
Tropical Storm One PATHTropical Storm One 19601960 did not have much action for Texas, but there was Tropical Storm One which is one of those sneaky storms. The next season, 1966, left Texas completely alone and, in fact, didn’t do much to the Gulf:1966 Hurricane PathsBut 1980 was another story. Believe it or not, Tropical Storm Danielle would follow in September, moving into Beaumont where Nederland picked up 18″ of rain. The 1980 season lasted well into November and Texans were glad to see it go. Before Ike, however, was Hurricane Dolly in Brownsville dropping 15″ of rain in Harlingen and causing damage to South Padre.
Where to see the ballerinas from Beaumont whose photoshoot recently went viral
The dancers who were featured in a photoshoot that went viral earlier this month will put on their spring show this weekend. Earlier this month the ballerinas made headlines with their photos which many media outlets linked to Black History Month. Perry shared the photo on her Facebook page with the caption “fierce, determined and strong.”The viral photoshoot was shared by Good Morning America, People.com and BET.com. By coincidence, the date the families of the dancers agreed on happened to fall during Black History Month, according to People.com. “It just so happened to be February and what better month to do [the photo shoot] in honor of Black History Month.”
A Texas restaurant opened early to serve a 3-year-old cancer patient her favorite meal
But she still wanted to dine at her favorite restaurant. When J. Wilson's in Beaumont, Texas, heard their tiny customer's desire, they opened up early, decorated in pink and covered the cost of the meal. Battling cancerLunch at the neighborhood favorite J. Wilson's was a family tradition. Then, on her third birthday, Adelaide's pediatrician told Nguyen to get her checked after he observed red spots on her body. The staff decorated the restaurant with Adelaide's favorite color, pink, and made her favorite food: biscuits.
Patient under investigation for possible coronavirus case in Beaumont, health official say
BEAUMONT, Texas – A patient is under investigation for a possible case of coronavirus in Beaumont, according to city health officials. The Beaumont Public Health Department says it’s working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Texas Department of State Health Services, along with other partners in the monitoring of the patient’s health status. Testing per CDC guideline has been initiated and expedited for confirmation, health officials said. Officials said there is currently no risk to the public. For more information, call Beaumont Public Health Department at 409-654-3603.
4 Houston men arrested in connection with armored car robbery scheme
BEAUMONT, Texas – Four Houston men were arrested in Beaumont in connection with an armored car robbery scheme, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Texas. Investigators believe the crew is responsible for the October 2019 fatal shooting of an armored car guard in northwest Houston, officials said. RELATED: Armored truck guard shot, killed during northwest Houston robberyAccording to the criminal complaint, the Federal Bureau of Investigation was investigating a series of armored car robberies, including the fatal robbery of a Loomis armored car courier that occurred Oct. 24, 2019, in Houston. RELATED: Dramatic photos show moments before armored truck guard fatally shot in face during robberyA subsequent investigation led officers to the four men arrested. Upon arriving in Lake Charles, the men were observed by law enforcement officers following an armored vehicle that then traveled to Beaumont, officials said.
Former Supervisory Correctional Officer Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Civil Rights Violation
A former Supervisory Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) in Beaumont, Texas, was sentenced today in federal court for aiding and abetting the assault of an inmate. Khristal Ford, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone to 24 months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release. Ford then told another correctional officer to take care of it and watched as the officer entered the cell and punched A.A. in the head three times without justification. The Department of Justice will not tolerate this abuse of authority, said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. Ford did the exact opposite when she aided in the assault and civil rights violations of an inmate.
justice.govOld photos capture the city of Beaumont nearly 100 years ago
Old photos capture the city of Beaumont nearly 100 years agoA 1934 photo of the Liberty Theater on fire Beaumont. Enterprise Archive Photo Photo: Ryan Welch/The Enterprise Photo: Ryan Welch/The Enterprise Image 1 of / 113 Caption Close Old photos capture the city of Beaumont nearly 100 years ago 1 / 113 Back to GalleryHave you ever wondered what Southeast Texas looked like a century ago? Photos collected from the Beaumont Enterprise archives provide a glimpse into what the Texas town, which is less than a two-hour drive from Houston, looked like long ago. If you're interested in learning more about the history of Southeast Texas, check out the Houston Chronicle's Bayou City History page for a detailed look at the history of Houston. You can also follow Bayou City History on Twitter here.
chron.comFormer Texas Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Offense for Assaulting Inmate
Tavoris Bottley, 34, a former Senior Correctional Officer at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) in Beaumont, Texas, pleaded guilty in court today to assaulting a federal inmate housed at the facility. According to documents filed in connection with the guilty plea, on June 8, 2017, Bottley, while on duty as a federal correctional officer at FCC Beaumont, punched A.A, an inmate, in the face and head multiple times without justification. Bottley admitted that he then punched A.A., even though the inmate did not pose any threat at the time. This conduct by a federal correctional officer erodes public trust, said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. The Department of Justice will continue to vigorously prosecute those who violate the civil rights of inmates.Correctional officers have an obligation to be professional said U.S. Attorney Joseph D. Brown of the Eastern District of Texas.
justice.govFormer correctional officer pleads guilty to assaulting federal inmate in Beaumont
Former correctional officer pleads guilty to assaulting federal inmate in BeaumontA former correctional officer pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting a federal inmate in a Beaumont prison, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office. Tavoris Bottley, 34, was on duty as a senior correctional officer in June 2017 when he punched an unidentified inmate in the face and head multiple times at the Federal Correctional Complex in Beaumont, the release said. Bottley told authorities that he and his supervisor, Lt. Khristal Ford, intentionally unlocked and entered the cell to assault the inmate for being disrespectful and throwing a food tray, the release said. Ford in May pleaded guilty to covering up the nature of the assault in written reports to make it appear justified, the release said. Bottley faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
chron.com8-year-old boy undergoes 7 surgeries after being mauled by dog
HOUSTON - A series of operations by doctors in Houston has saved the life of an 8-year-old Beaumont boy who was mauled by a dog. Austyn Clanton has undergone seven surgeries since Saturday's attack -- all to reconstruct his bicep. "We borrowed muscle from his back, the latissimus muscle and skin that was on top of that muscle," said Dr. Phuong Nguyen, recalling the surgeries. He joked he wouldn't mind losing his arm so long as he could have a bionic one instead. If all goes well, he will be able to use his arm normally and even flex his new bicep.
More Imelda recovery centers to open this week: Red Cross
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- While the disaster that was Imelda is long gone, the recovery process is far from over.The American Red Cross and other partners are opening more recovery centers to help victims get back to normal, according to a statement. "These partners are meeting one-on-one with residents to help them with their specific disaster-caused emergency needs," the statement said.Before you go, you'll need to bring proof of address like a driver's license or a utility bill.Harris County9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Baker Ripley East Aldine Campus, 3000 Aldine Mail Rte Rd, Houston, TX 77039Jefferson County10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Central Park |640 S 4th St, Beaumont, TX 77701Montgomery County9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Tullis Library, 21569 U.S. 59, New Caney, TXOrange County10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Orange County Office of Emergency Management | 11475 FM 1442 Orange, TX 77630Jefferson County10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Central Park | 640 S 4th St, Beaumont, TX 77701Montgomery County9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | Tullis Library, 21569 U.S. 59, New Caney, TXOrange County10 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Orange County Office of Emergency Management | 11475 FM 1442 Orange, TX 77630Since Sept. 17, the Red Cross said it's provided more than 5,300 overnight stays in shelters and has served more than 73,700 meals and snacks. Volunteers have also made more than 8,700 mental, spiritual and other health-related contacts with flood survivors.
abc13.comBar owner found dead during Imelda was shot to death
CROSBY, Texas (KTRK) -- A man found dead during Tropical Storm Imelda now appears to be the victim of murder.On Sept. 21, a realtor found the body of Ralph Lee Machala at the end of a long dirt road off of Tri City Beach Road in Chambers County. "They purposely disposed of the body in this location because they did not expect him to be found," said Hawthorne.Machala was the owner of the popular Pooky's Tavern in Crosby. "He is very outgoing. Everybody knows him. Everybody loves him," said Hawthorne.The sheriff is urging anyone with information about Machala's death to contact Chambers County deputies at 409-267-2500 or Crime Stoppers at 844-860-8477.
abc13.comBar owner's body found amid Imelda disaster in Chambers Co.
CROSBY, Texas (KTRK) -- A man found dead during Tropical Storm Imelda now appears to be the victim of murder.On Sept. 21, a realtor found the body of Ralph Lee Machala off of Tri City Beach Road in Chambers County.Due to flooded roads, Machala's body was flown to the medical examiner's office in Beaumont by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office helicopter.The cause of death was determined to be a gunshot wound.Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne said it appears that the 58-year-old was not shot at the location where he was found.Machala was the owner of the popular Pooky's Tavern House in Crosby.The sheriff is urging anyone with information about Machala's death to contact Chambers County deputies at 409-267-2500 or Crime Stoppers at 844-860-8477.
abc13.comRed Cross says it needs volunteers in Houston, Beaumont and Orange
HOUSTON - The American Red Cross said it needs volunteers in the Houston, Beaumont and Orange areas, as it works to respond to Tropical Depression Imelda. The volunteer need in Houston is slightly different and includes needing anyone who is willing to drive response vehicles during the day. "Volunteers are the backbone of the Red Cross mission, because 90 percent of our workforce are volunteers. You can help support immediate disaster relief needs by visiting redcross.org, calling 1- 800-RED CROSS or texting 90999 to make a $10 donation. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster.
I-10 between Beaumont and Winnie reopens after Imelda flooding
I10 east and westbound now OPEN between Beaumont and Winnie pic.twitter.com/saWKXMfKSI TxDOT-Beaumont (@TxDOTBeaumont) September 22, 2019CHAMBERS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- I-10 between Beaumont and Winnie, Texas is officially re-opened!TxDot said in a tweet Sunday afternoon that the highway is reopened after Tropical Storm Imelda dropped an immense amount of rain on the area.The section of I-10 had been closed since Thursday.While the interstate was back open, TxDOT said there were still some sections that continue to hold water and only one lane is open.The remnants of Imelda dumped up to 43 inches of rain within three days in the areas between Winnie and Beaumont, east of Houston. Most of that rain fell in just 24 hours.At least five deaths have been confirmed as a result of the hazardous flooding.While the section between Winnie and Beaumont is back open, I-10 remained closed Sunday in both directions at the San Jacinto River following last week's barge crash.
abc13.comHeartbreaking photos show Beaumont reeling, repairing in wake of Tropical Storm Imelda
Heartbreaking photos show Beaumont reeling, repairing in wake of Tropical Storm ImeldaYesenia Sanchez (in orange) gets a hug from Marcella Gorrostieta as she becomes emotional while cleaning up the Sanchez's flood damaged home on Avenue H in Beaumont as the process of recovery from Imelda's torrential rains and flooding begins throughout the region Friday. Photo taken Friday, September 20, 2019 Kim Brent/The Enterprise less Yesenia Sanchez (in orange) gets a hug from Marcella Gorrostieta as she becomes emotional while cleaning up the Sanchez's flood damaged home on Avenue H in Beaumont as the process of recovery from Imelda's ... more Photo: Kim Brent/The Enterprise Photo: Kim Brent/The Enterprise Image 1 of / 232 Caption Close Heartbreaking photos show Beaumont reeling, repairing in wake of Tropical Storm Imelda 1 / 232 Back to GalleryMuch of southeast Texas is still attempting to recover from the devastation brought on by Tropical Storm Imelda, which left five people dead and ravaged many Texas communities. Among the communities most impacted was Beaumont, which is in the early stages of repairing the homes that were destroyed and trying to find solutions for the future. Click through the gallery to see incredible photos from the Beaumont Enterprise of the recovery efforts. MORE ON IMELDA: Repeat flooding has residents asking if Houston is worth itSTAY INFORMED: Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here.
chron.comInterstate 10 reopens between Beaumont and Winnie after floods
Interstate 10 reopens between Beaumont and Winnie after floodsInterstate 10 has re-opened between Beaumont and Winnie after severe flooding in the area last week. Interstate 10 has re-opened between Beaumont and Winnie after severe flooding in the area last week. Photo: Google Maps Photo: Google Maps Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Interstate 10 reopens between Beaumont and Winnie after floods 1 / 1 Back to GalleryInterstate 10 has re-opened between Beaumont and Winnie after it was flooded last week in tropical depression Imelda , the Texas Department of Transportation announced Sunday. Interstate 10 remains closed in both directions at the San Jacinto River after runaway barges on Friday struck the bridge. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com.
chron.comImelda leaves at least 5 dead in Texas, many more stranded after historic rainfall
HOUSTON - Imelda, now dubbed one of the wettest tropical storms in United States history, dumped more than 43 inches of rain in some areas of southeast Texas. The Harris County Sheriff's Office tweeted Friday afternoon that it had fielded 1,125 weather-related calls since Imelda began. Officials in Harris County said there had been a combination of at least 1,700 high-waster rescues following Imelda's deluge of rain. Another man drowned Thursday when he tried to drive his van through 8-foot-deep floodwaters near George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. Friday morning, Texas Task Force 1 found Malcolm Foster, a 47-year-old man, dead inside a Toyota Prius in a canal in Beaumont, the city said in a statement.
As many as five Imelda-related deaths
Severe flooding on the 59 Freeway near Highway 242 in Houston on Sept. 19, 2019. HOUSTON - Three people were killed after Tropical Storm Imelda hit Southeast Texas Thursday, bringing torrential rainfall across the Houston area, Winnie and Beaumont. Texas Task Force 1 found Foster's body in a 2008 Toyota Prius in a canal after floodwaters receded Friday morning. -Rescuers also found the body of 52-year-old Mark Dukaj in his pickup truck, the Texas Department of Public Safety said. Another man was found dead Friday morning in a drainage ditch on West Mount Houston, deputies said.
Fifth death linked to storm that walloped Houston area
Authorities raised the storm's death toll to five, saying it is believed to have killed a 52-year-old Florida man who was found dead Thursday in his stranded pickup truck along Interstate 10 near Beaumont, which is near Texas' border with Louisiana. Jefferson County spokeswoman Allison Getz said that although floodwaters seeped into Mark Dukaj's truck, investigators don't believe he drowned, though they do believe his death is storm-related. An autopsy will determine the cause.
chicagotribune.com9 numbers you should know about Imelda's impact
HOUSTON - Here are some numbers to know about Tropical Depression Imelda. 2,000: Rescues that have been performed so far in Harris County, according to the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office. 1,125: Weather-related calls have been fielded by dispatchers at the Harris County Sheriffs Office as of 2:25 p.m. Friday. 365: Stranded vehicles, according to HSCO. Two in Beaumont, one in Harris County.
This is why Imelda will have little impact on Texas drought
Tropical Storm Imelda inundated parts of Southeast Texas with massive amounts of rain. Imelda dropped over 40 inches of rain near Beaumont in Jefferson County. Other areas of southeast Texas, From Harris County eastward, received over 10 to 20 inches of rain. In fact, the areas in Jefferson County that got 40 or more inches were not even considered "Abnormally Dry" before Imelda. Currently, 52 percent of Texas is experiencing some form of drought.
What do you want to know about Imelda and Houston flooding?
A car is stuck in floodwaters along a freeway in Beaumont, Texas, on Sept. 19, 2019. HOUSTON - What questions do you have right now about local flooding and Imelda? Use the form or comments section below to ask, and we'll do our best to get answers. Email: news@kprc.comPhotos and video: Share with Click2Pins or through Frank's Weather Forecast app: Android | iOS. The weather app also sends timely push alerts, current conditions and forecasts, and live radar.
Troopers routing traffic to go wrong way on I-10 to ease congestion in Winnie
Unsafe roads:Chambers County Emergency Management officials said there are multiple areas near Winnie, Texas that are unsafe and people are being warned to stay away. Traffic on I-10 is at a standstill and troopers are working to clear out some of the congestion. Eastbound traffic on I-10 is being backed up and troopers are having drivers turn around and drive the wrong way on the right side of the lanes. In Winnie, traffic is able to go east. Troopers are having to reroute traffic to go the wrong way in order to ease congestion in Winnie.
One-tank trips: 5 things to do during a weekend excursion to Beaumont
HOUSTON – One-tank trips can take you from Houston to some pretty amazing places. Our ongoing series “One Tank Trips,” helps you discover what to do, and where to eat and stay in these places. Beaumont, TexasDistance from Houston to Beaumont: 86 milesLocated about 90 minutes outside of Houston, Beaumont provides the quaint sense of southern charm that is commonly unseen in large Texas cities. With the popular Beaumont Craft Beer Fest quickly approaching on Sept. 14, here are some other spots and restaurants that visitors should be sure not to miss. Beaumont Craft Beer FestIf you already have tickets to this already sold out beer fest, it is an event that Texas residents should not miss.
One-tank trips: 5 things to do during a weekend excursion to Beaumont
HOUSTON - One-tank trips can take you from Houston to some pretty amazing places. Our ongoing series One Tank Trips, helps you discover what to do, and where to eat and stay in these places. Beaumont, TexasDistance from Houston to Beaumont: 86 milesLocated about 90 minutes outside of Houston, Beaumont provides the quaint sense of southern charm that is commonly unseen in large Texas cities. With the popular Beaumont Craft Beer Fest quickly approaching on Sept. 14, here are some other spots and restaurants that visitors should be sure not to miss. Beaumont Craft Beer FestIf you already have tickets to this already sold out beer fest, it is an event that Texas residents should not miss.
$100k treasure hunt in Houston underway: Here's how you can win
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The hunt is on!A treasure hunt that vowed to reward $100,000 to someone deeply knowledgeable about Houston is underway.In July, we reported on Hidden Treasure Hunts, the game that already stumped teams in Beaumont. The organizers are now getting the game going in Houston.Here's how it works: There are around 15 riddles people will have to answer using Houston electrical box murals.Participants enter the riddle answer online, and if it's correct, they receive the next clue. You can play solo or on a team. You must be at least 18 years old.The game started this past week, but as of Aug. 15, no one has gotten past the sixth clue.The treasure hunt has another benefit. Part of the entry fee will go to the Houston SPCA,You can enter the game in progress at the Hidden Treasure Hunts website
abc13.comEntergy warns of summer scams
Beaumont-based energy provider Entergy issued a warning and tips Aug. 1 after receiving reports of scammers targeting its customers. The scammer reportedly asks the customer to give a credit card number right then, buy a prepaid gift card or electronically transfer the funds. It is important to remember that Entergy never demands immediate payment from customers over the phone or shows up at your door demanding money on the spot, the press release states. You shouldnt give your personal information to strangers.If a call sounds suspicious, customers are encouraged to hang up and call 800-368-3749 to speak with an Entergy customer service representative. Legitimate ways of paying an Entergy bill include online, by phone, walk-in payment centers, mail or bank draft payments.
communityimpact.comVandals desecrate Beaumont cemetery, damage casket and tombs
Vandals desecrate Beaumont cemetery, damage casket and tombsOn Wednesday, July 3, Beaumont police said they responded to Forest Lawn Cemetery, in the 4900 block of Pine Street, in reference to a burglary. The cemetery grounds keeper reportedly discovered two mausoleum tombs were significantly damaged and one casket was removed from it's tomb and opened. less On Wednesday, July 3, Beaumont police said they responded to Forest Lawn Cemetery, in the 4900 block of Pine Street, in reference to a burglary. The cemetery grounds keeper reportedly discovered two ... more Photo: Beaumont PD/Facebook Photo: Beaumont PD/Facebook Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Vandals desecrate Beaumont cemetery, damage casket and tombs 1 / 1 Back to GalleryBeaumont police are searching for vandals who desecrated a local cemetery, causing damage to tombs and even dragging out a coffin. The cemetery groundskeeper reportedly discovered two mausoleum tombs were significantly damaged and one casket was removed from its tomb and opened.
chron.comEmergency crews in Houston preparing to help Louisiana ahead of Tropical Storm Barry
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Red Cross is staging people and resources ahead of Tropical Storm Barry.The main impact is headed towards Louisiana, but the organization is also concerned about Beaumont and parts of the southeast Texas coastline.Volunteers with Red Cross are packing 1,600 kits filled with coats, blankets and other essentials. We try to save lives," Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen said.Constable Alan Rosen says his willingness to help stems from two years ago when people from Louisiana stepped up to help during Hurricane Harvey. He also plans to send 26 members of the swift water rescue team to Louisiana, if needed. That's the team I would send, if God forbid, they needed us to help," Rosen said.Tropical Storm Barry is expected to hit this weekend. The National Weather Service says it could create dangerous conditions, including flooding in some areas.If it does, Rosen says he knows many Texans would be willing to grab boats and go help.
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