1.   After the Middle Ages, trade routes changed and the island lost its importance.

2.   And, because of an increasing population, the island is losing its fresh water supply along with its swamps.

3.   Many islands lost electricity, telecommunications, and fresh water.

4.   The island has lost jobs particularly in the apparel sector to Mexico and Central America, where wages are lower.

5.   Cuba still is struggling to recover from an economic crisis that started when the former Soviet bloc collapsed and the communist island lost its most important trade partners.

6.   Race officials also had a tough time tracking the boats Sunday night because the island lost power, she said.

7.   Roque added that Cuba still has cordial feelings toward the Mexican people, but that the communist island had lost respect for the Mexican government.

8.   The island also lost its satellite phone and the roof was blown off the radio station.

9.   Under Rossello, the island lost its status as a tax-free haven for U.S. businesses.