OK so now we know where you are, lets give some info
There are 6 channels in the market (number is the ANALOG...the one you're use to seeing)
4 Fox
6 CBS
12 ABC
22 My Network
34 TBN
64 Indpendent (KUIL The U)
But now that they moved to digital, the numbers changed...below is the DIGITAL channel
36 KUIL
40 Fox
21 CBS/CW
12 ABC/NBC
33 TBN
My Network (22) is still analog. When the conversion came about, stations classified as "low powered" did not have to upgrade right now. The TV's & converter boxes are smart enough to "map" the chanels back to what you are use to seeing (4, 6, etc)
So as you can see, you went from 3 VHF & 3 UHF stations to 1 VHF and 5 UHF channels. So if you have "rabbit ears" they may be for VHF Only which is why you're having issues.
Checking a website all of the stations are broadcasting NE of Beaumont in Orange County. Here is where I got the info
http://www.fcc.gov/dtv/markets/maps_current/Beaumont-Port_Arthur_TX.pdf
in simpler terms...the stations are broadcasting from the same spot as they were in analog.
If you have a digital TV or converter box, the best thing to do is get a GOOD UHF antenna. Channel 12 will come in fine even if you have a UHF only antenna. My antenna is UHF only and I get my locals that are on VHF (9 & 11) at very good signal.
Since you mention metal roof, you probably would want to go with a smaller outdoor antenna. I know you mentioned your "distaste" for Radio Shack but I'll put up a couple links to antennas just so you know the size that youre looking at
VHF/UHF antenna
UHF only
I dont know what other stores you have there that sell antennas but I know that the home improvement "big box" stores (lowes, home depot etc) will have them too. If you're in Beaumont or Pt Arthur proper you shouldn't need a huge antenna. The farther West/SW of there you are then you might need a little bigger antenna.
As for the stations you would get then
4.1 Fox
6.1 CBS
6.2 CW
12.1 ABC
12.2 NBC
22 My Network (analog)
34.1 TBN
34.2-34.5 a few more religious channels
64.1 KUIL
which would be all your local networks in digital clear picture with no huge antenna