City moves to preserve iconic three-deckers

Officials are launching a $3 million dollar initiative to restore Boston’s three-deckers to their former glory.

“I never expected to get the reaction that we did,” said Marie A. Presti, a Newton real estate broker, who received 18 offers in five days for a Roslindale house.

Real estate market is perking up

The region’s spring housing market has blossomed earlier and more vibrantly this year, specialists say.

Search resumes for missing Maine toddler

About 100 searchers aided by tracking dogs are renewing their search for Ayla Reynolds, a Maine toddler who was last seen the night of Dec. 16.

http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_90x90/Boston/2011-2020/2012/03/24/BostonGlobe.com/Metro/Advance/Images/24mattapanro--90x90.jpg Mattapan jurors recount discord

Two jurors in the quadruple slaying trial described a strange, tense scene during deliberations, where a lone holdout refused to convict Dwayne Moore of the murders.

Rick Santorum spoke during a campaign stop at the Pennsylvania Leadership Conference today.

Rick Santorum looks for rebound in Louisiana

The former Pennsylvania senator is expected to do well as Republican voters go to the polls today in the state’s GOP primary.

Christopher L. Gasper

Power struggle may weaken Red Sox

A wedge appears to be forming between Bobby Valentine and Ben Cherington on the best way to employ Daniel Bard, and whether Jose Iglesias is ready for the majors.

Opinion | Edward L. Glaeser

Why income disparity in Boston isn’t a bad thing

While the inequality within a city can reflect the inequality of the nation, the two issues are different.

Second-hand specialist plans expansion in Mass.

Winmark Corp. says the high number of families with young children and the large student population in Massachusetts make it a prime market for second-hand merchandise.

Doctors see ‘cinnamon challenge’ as recipe for disaster

The challenge may sound like silly fun, but health professionals are warning parents that it can cause health problems.

Globe Insiders

Video

http://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_90x90/Boston/2011-2020/2012/03/02/BostonGlobe.com/Special/Images/lennyclarke copy-018--90x90.jpg Globe Talk: Boston, a Comedy Capital

Watch the video of this Globe Talk event, featuring local comedians Dave Russo, Anthony Scibelli, Tony V, Jimmy Tingle, and Lenny Clarke sharing stories about the Boston comedy scene. Laughs guaranteed. (Editor’s note: This video contains strong language.)

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EU starts review of EMI sale deal

The European Union’s competition regulator launched an investigation of Universal Music Group’s planned acquisition of part of British music company EMI.

Nation & World

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Updated UN report reveals more rights abuses in Syria

A UN inquiry commission offered new details of the Syria conflict, including the uprooting of extended clans and villages forced to flee into neighboring countries by armed forces.

Sports

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Tommy Cross is leading BC’s success

Finally healthy, defenseman Tommy Cross has turned in his best season at Boston College as a senior, and will anchor the Eagles into today’s NCAA Northeast Regional semifinal.