Today’s letter from key health industry players to President Obama promising to “do our part” to control medical care cost growth is a big deal. It sends a powerful message that “Harry and Louise,” the fictional couple who became the symbol of the medical establishment’s opposition to Clinton-era health reform, have retired to a condo in Florida.

When President Obama proposed international tax reforms on Monday, the biggest surprise was a provision that would prevent parent companies from making foreign affiliates “disappear” for U.S. tax purposes. How do you make an affiliate disappear? Since I have not taken the magicians oath, I’ll tell you. But here’s one clue: It is perfectly legal under the so-called “check-the-box” rules.