H-F Business Owners 'Optimistic' about Four More Years of Obama

All across the country, Americans are reacting to the news of President Obama’s reelection.  While many are concerned about how the decision will affect them individually, thousands of local business owners are contemplating how four more years of an Obama administration might affect their efforts.

To find out more, Patch asked around among the H-F business community get their take on it. Days after the election, the feedback is pretty optimistic.

Larry Kane of Flossmoor owns Jonathan Kane Salon & Spa. Kane says his relatively new business has already seen a double-digit increase since opening in Feb. of 2010. A similar increase is expected this year, he says. Jonathan Kane has also grown from a humble seven original employees to the current 21.

“The whole doom and gloom thing people thought Obama was going to bring never happened to us,” Kane said. “I’m optimistic because we’ve persevered three of the last four years Obama’s been in office.”

Still, Kane says he’s interested to see what lies ahead for small business legislation. Kane says regardless of what's to come, his business will continue to rely on its current strengths for success.

“We struggle with (taxes) … but most of that is more local than federal,” Kane said. “Our best defense is a good offense.”

Aurelio’s pizza owner Joe Aurelio is of a similar, proactive mindset. He says he was more or less expecting an Obama victory.

“We’re still trying to make the best pizza we can,” Aurelio said. “I’m optimistic, but still concerned.”

Among Aurelio’s concerns is the president’s proposed health care initiative. With 140 employees compared to Jonathan Kane’s 21, the outcome of this national issue may have a significant impact on the beloved local pizza business.

“If I have to contribute to health care for 140 people, we’re going to have to look for (ways to make up the costs),” Aurelio said.

Despite concerns, however, Aurelio says he’s hopeful a reasonable plan will be drafted through bipartisan efforts.

AAA Rental owner and Homewood Trustee Jay Heiferman makes up for any lack of confidence in the other two. He thinks America's economy is in an upswing and it will remain resilient regardless of the presidential outcome.

Heiferman is of the opinion that America's economy is in an upswing and that it will remain resilient regardless  of the presidents contributions or detractions. 

"This county would be in good shape regardless of who won."

What’s your opinion? Does Obama’s reelection bring along cautious optimism as some local business owners are suggesting or is there an unforseen storm on the horizon? Tell us in the comments.