Morning Links: 23 October 2008

Former state commissioner named to Medco board, regional bank CEO says Nashville is strong, Tractor Supply's recession-proof customer, and more...

Email | Print By Geert De Lombaerde

Former CMS boss, Tennessee Commissioner of Human Services and friend to many in Nashville's health care scene Nancy-Ann DeParle has been elected to the board of Medco.

Commenting on their third-quarter earnings, Tractor Supply execs said they will slow their expansion plans a little in 2009 – search for 'cognizant' – and highlight their distinct customer profile – look for 'recession.'

An advisory committee's first meeting today to discuss the state's health plan – including whether the CON process should remain in place – will be closed to the public.

Gov. Bredesen will find out if his coattails are longer this election season than they were in 2004.

Robert Thompson, the entrepreneur looking to open a World Trade Center in Nashville, has stepped aside as president of CenTradeX, his international trade research firm.

An Oklahoma state senator will propose that the state buy one of Ardent Health Services' hospitals in Tulsa.

Lauri Chaudoin has stepped down after nine years as in-house counsel at Rogers Group to launch her own law and mediation firm.

Robin McGraw, CEO of Mississippi-based bank holding company Renasant, says his Nashville pipeline and small-business lending activity are strong. (Search for 'pipeline.')

CMT takes a look at the state of banking on Music Row.