Kent' Supply Honored by SBA

Small Business Administration names Kent's Supply 2019 Nevada Legacy Small Business of the Year Staff report -- information from county proclamation and SBA program Ira H. Kent established his mercantile business during 1892 in the settlement of Stillwater, Nevada and then moved his business to Fallon when it was designated the county seat in 1906. Ira's great-granddaughter, Karla became the president of Kent's Supply in 1993 and was just honored by the U.S. SBA as the 2019 Nevada Legacy Small Business of the Year. Kent's is the oldest continuously running retail establishment in the state, as Karla will surely state within minutes of introducing her store, proud of her heritage and the staying power of her company. She is a fourth-generation owner of the popular family business, who grew up running down the catwalks, jumping into the grain bins, and volunteering to bag merchandise. Karla is the fifth of Thomas and Ellie Kent's six children and is determined to continue the legacy of her great-grandfather, grandfather, and father, all of whom survived challenging economic times, including the Great Depression. Kent's Supply provides building materials to the local community, supports the growth of Naval Air Station Fallon, the county's agricultural sector, and the mining industry. Karla is credited with adapting with the times to survive the most recent economic deownturn by modifying the product line, changing her marketing strategy, and taking on first-level responsibilities. Kent's Supply supports many community organizations and Karla is known for her support and activities with the Fallon community, including serving as past president of Rotary, the Fallon Community Theatre, and Chamber of Commerce.         Never miss the local news -- read more on The Fallon Post home page. If you like what we’re doing, please support our effort to provide local, independent news and contribute to The Fallon Post, your online news source for all things Fallon.