THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

Past and future IRA chairs joined special guest Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza at a Cubs vs. White Sox game this week, bringing IRA leadership together for an evening of baseball and camaraderie. Former IRA Chair Grant DePorter graciously hosted the event, while Former IRA Chair Sam Sanchez hosted a pre-game gathering.

Updated TPS Extensions

USCIS has once again updated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) related work authorization guidance. The new deadline is September 9 for nationals of El Salvador and October 19 for nationals of Sudan and Ukraine.

As things remain fluid, we recommend checking USCIS for the most up-to-date expiration and re-verification information.

We also recommend viewing the National Restaurant Association's webinar on the latest TPS changes and what employers need to know.

Employment Law Roundtable for Small Businesses

Join the Illinois Restaurant Association, Laner Muchin Law, and the Cook County Small Business Source for an informative Employment Law Roundtable designed for small business owners.

Bring your employment law questions, hear from legal experts, and connect with fellow small business owners. Complementary breakfast will be served.

Date: Wednesday, August 26

Time: 10:00am

Location: El Cid (2645 N Kedzie, Chicago IL 60647)

Click here to register for the Employment Law Roundtable.

Rethinking Food Packaging: A Guide to PFAS-Free Alternatives

Join the Illinois Restaurant Association, Illinois Green Business Program, and the Cook County Small Business Source for a virtual session on food packaging and PFAS-free foodware options. Learn why PFAS in food packaging matters, how to identify safer alternatives, and practical steps to make the switch.

You’ll also get helpful resources to guide purchasing decisions and hear firsthand from Soul Ramen about their experience transitioning to PFAS-free foodware. Register today and get the tools to make the switch with confidence.

Date: Thursday, August 27

Time: 10:00am

Click here to register for the Rethinking Food Packaging virtual business advising session.

Tip Pooling Compliance: What Restaurant Employers Need to Know

Join the Illinois Restaurant Association, Amundsen Davis, and the Cook County Small Business Source for a practical webinar on tip pooling requirements under federal and Illinois law. Learn common compliance pitfalls, best practices, and steps restaurant operators can take to reduce risk and avoid costly claims.

Date: Wednesday, September 2

Time: 10:00am

Click here to register for the Tip Pooling Compliance virtual business advising session.

Support the IRAEF Online Auction at Chicago Gourmet 2026

Chicago Gourmet returns September 24–27. Support the future of hospitality by donating to the IRAEF online auction! Proceeds benefit scholarships, career readiness, and workforce development for ProStart® students across Illinois.

We’re seeking auction donations, including:

• Private dining experiences
• Chef’s tables
• Wine and spirits packages
• Hotel stays and travel
• VIP sports or entertainment tickets
• Unique hospitality experiences

Click here to donate an auction item. Please submit donation forms and/or items by September 18.

Are You Overpaying for Your Restaurant’s 401(k)? Get a Free Benchmark Report

Through their partnership with the Illinois Restaurant Association, Human Interest is offering members a complimentary 401(k) benchmarking analysis. They will compare your current plan’s fees, investment options, and services against industry averages to ensure it is actually working hard for your business. The Department of Labor recommends this thorough evaluation occur every 2-3 years to meet fiduciary responsibilities and protect your assets.

Here is how a quick benchmark can help your restaurant:

• Identify Hidden Costs: Discover how we can potentially save your business 20-30% on annual fees.
• Optimize Plan Performance: Ensure your administrative services and investment options are truly competitive.
• Zero Heavy Lifting: Their team does the work for you—they just need a recent fee disclosure statement to run the numbers.
• 

Request your free benchmarking report today by contacting Human Interest contact and IRA member Brandi Cervella.

3rd Annual AMAC She SOARS — Women in Aviation Summit

The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) and the Chicago Department of Aviation present the 3rd Annual AMAC She SOARS — Women in Aviation Summit from September 21 to 22 at the Marriott Marquis Chicago. This unique summit is curated for women in aviation, including mid- and upper-management professionals, aviation HR leaders, airport governing authorities, government officials, and industry association leaders.

Click here for more information on the She SOARS Summit.

Click here for information on sponsoring the She SOARS Summit.

IRA New Member Spotlight

The IRA would like to thank all existing members and welcome the following new member:

• Sanders BBQ Supply Co



For more information about the benefits of becoming an IRA member, contact Lisa Gilbert.

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS