Connecting words

_______________ the flue, Alexander won't be coming to work today.

_______________ our efforts to prevent pollution, people are continuing to litter.

_______________ you finished all the dessert that I made last night, we don't have anything to offer our guests.

Elisa drank a lot of coffee today ______________ she couldn't fall asleep.This question is required.

Simon hasn't shown up to work for the past three days and _______________ he has fired.

________________ I've invited the whole family over for Christmas dinner, only a few of them are coming.This question is required.

________________ having more job experience, the other candidate was chosen instead.This question is required.

Once a year my friends and I organize a reunion and _____________ this we've managed to keep in touch.This question is required.