Cook County briefs

Swing band at Harper today:

Alfonso Ponticelli and his Swing Gitan band bring their talents to Palatine's Harper College tonight with a free concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. Ponticelli, a multi-instrumentalist known for gypsy- and flamenco-inspired jazz, performs original compositions and his interpretations of songs like "Isn't She Lovely" and the theme from "The Munsters." Free frozen treats offered before the show while supplies last. Information is at harpercollege.edu or (847) 925-6100.

Attend poetry workshop:

The Northwest Cultural Council will host its Second Saturday Poetry Workshop from 9 a.m. to noon July 11. The topic is Elizabeth Alexander, who composed the poem for President Barack Obama's inauguration. Participants are encouraged to bring 12 copies of their own work to share with the group. Workshops take place at the NWCC Gallery, 500 N. Hicks Road, Suite 120, Palatine. The cost is $15. To make a reservation, call (847) 991-7966 or e-mail nwcc@northwestculturalcouncil.org.

American English rescheduled:

American English will perform at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2, at Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 262 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. The Beatles tribute band was set to play June 19, but the show was rained out. For weather-related cancellations, call (847) 705-5123 #274.