Coming to grips

Coming to grips Tia Krier, 11-year-old daughter of Paul and Paula Krier of Vermillion, is undaunted as she attempts the "extreme" route on the portable Thunder Rock climber, set up on the USD campus Tuesday. Tia Krier, 11-year-old daughter of Paul and Paula Krier of Vermillion, is undaunted as she attempts the "extreme" route on the portable Thunder Rock climber, set up on the USD campus Tuesday. The 24-foot tower, owned by Kelly VanMeter, Sioux Falls, includes two easier routes, a moderate route, and the difficult path to the top. Krier had no problem scurrying to the top on the easy path. "This is used mainly for recreation," VanMeter said. "Beginning to advanced climbers like to practice on it."