1.   But the rivals are competing mightily for the popular vote in California, which carries no delegates but could be an important lift for McCain.

2.   Had McCain won South Carolina, that could may have given him an important lift that could have led some Bush backers to begin to defect.

3.   Had McCain won South Carolina, that might have given him an important lift that could have led some Bush backers to begin to defect.

4.   If that proves to be the case, it could give the owners an important lift.

5.   First-quarter earnings gave the market its most important lift.

6.   First-quarter earnings reports gave the market its most important lift.

7.   Good first-quarter earnings gave the market its most important lift.

8.   The Marines got an important lift from a pair of homers by infielder Frank Bolick, who formerly played with the Anaheim Angels.