Fourth of July is celebrated, but Angora fire not forgotten

While tens of thousands of locals and visitors enjoyed their picnics, barbecues and Fourth of July day off from work, crews from the U.S. Forest Service and other agencies continued efforts to fully control the Angora fire.

Eleven days after the fire devastated the North Upper Truckee and Angora Ridge area of South Lake Tahoe, and two days after officials declared it 100 percent contained, dozens of firefighters continued to douse hot spots on the ground and underneath it - mainly roots and stumps - said forest service spokesman Rex Norman.

It may take weeks to completely snuff out the embers, fire officials said.

The worst fire in Tahoe's history destroyed 254 homes, displaced 3,500 residents, burned 3,100 acres and left more than $160 million in damage.

As of early evening, the holiday was proceeding without any major problems. Thousands made their way to Tahoe's beaches.

Grocery and specialty stores were busy and restaurants and bars were packed. Highway 50 was clogged at peak times, especially around dusk, as many made their way to find prime spots to watch the fireworks display.

But underneath the holiday celebration and 90-degree sun, devastation and loss were still on the minds of many.