By Alica P. Thiele
Argus Leader Media

Co-workers and childhood friends have lined up a benefit Aug. 15 to help their friend, whose family lost their home to a fire in July.
Cari and Joseph Peters’ garage started on fire July 8. The fire spread to their home. The couple and their three children got out and were not harmed, but the home was destroyed.
The family has been renting a place in Dell Rapids until they can rebuild on their property, on Highway 115 just north of the four-corner stop to Trent exit and Interstate 29, according to Tonya Scherff, who has known Cari Peters since childhood and is now her co-worker.
Scherff and others will host a benefit concert Aug. 15 at the Old Dutch Inn.
“A group of friends at work decided to put this together for her because we recognize this substantial loss,” Scherff said. She works with Cari Peters at Showplace Wood Products in Harrisburg. “We’re glad the family is safe,” Scherff said, “but we know it’s hard to start over, so we’re assisting to help her get back on her feet.”
The band Undercover will provide music. Two band members – Andy Gilbert and Bart Brost – also work at Showplace. “They were the first to volunteer,” Scherff said. “This is something they wanted to assist with.”
The band will play from 9 p.m. until midnight.
Doors will open at 7 p.m. and cost is a freewill donation at the door. Alice Krantz, who went through school with Cari Peters and Scherff, said she hopes the turnout will be good. “We’re hoping for a full house and that everybody gives what they can,” she said.
There will be silent auctions throughout the evening, with items donated by area businesses. Scherff said organizers still are accepting silent auction items.
In addition, there will be a raffle for a 32-inch LCD Vizio television and a portable GPS system.
Cari and Joe Peters will be in attendance that night, both Scherff and Krantz said.
“We just want to support them in any way possible,” Krantz said. “Even the emotional and moral support of the community just means a lot to them, I’m sure.”
A fund has been started for the Peters at First National Bank in Dell Rapids. Those interested in contributing are asked to make checks payable to the Joseph and Cari Peters Benefit Account.