Desmond Brown

Web Writer / Editor

Desmond Brown is a GTA-based freelance writer and editor. You can reach him at: desmond.brown@cbc.ca.

Latest from Desmond Brown

Waterloo businesses welcome GST/HST tax break but worry about audits

Two Waterloo region businesses have welcomed the opportunity customers will have “to save some money” under the federal government’s GST/HST two-month tax break, which go into effect on Saturday.

At-home test kits for HIV, STIs aim to remove barriers for people in Waterloo region, Guelph and area

A program aimed at getting free, at-home self-testing kits to people will make it easier for those who face barriers to testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), according to a professor at the University of Ottawa who is also a nurse practitioner and developed the kit.

'A lot of interest' for HART hubs, Ontario health minister says, as Sanguen Health urges rethink

There is “a lot of interest” from communities to host Homelessness and Addictions Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs funded by the province, Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones said Thursday, even as Sanguen Health urges the government to preserve existing treatment sites.

35 years later, local organizations say it's crucial people remember deadly shooting at École Polytechnique

Organizations in Waterloo region and Guelph are holding events Friday to remember the women killed at École Polytechnique in Montréal on Dec. 6, 1989. Friday is also the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

Ontario MPPs vote in favour of motion to encourage school boards to bring police back into classrooms

The Ontario legislature passed a motion Wednesday for the Ministry of Education to encourage and support all publicly funded school boards in partnering with police services through community school liaison officer (CSLO) programs.

U of G student volunteers create a guide for giving this holiday season

For anyone thinking about supporting a local charity this holiday season but are not exactly sure how, student volunteers at the University of Guelph (U of G) have created a guide just for that.

Advocates warn 'people will die' as a result of Ford government's decision to close CTS in Guelph, Kitchener

Health advocates in Guelph and Kitchener warn the closure of local consumption and treatment services (CTS) will lead to the deaths of scores of people.

Habitat for Humanity project to bring more than 1,000 affordable housing units to Waterloo

A new project being led by Habitat for Humanity will bring more than 1,000 affordable housing units to the City of Waterloo, according to the non-profit organization.

Hamilton police board budget committee recommends 5.7% — $12.25M — increase for 2025

Hamilton's police board has recommended a 5.7 per cent, or approximately $12.25 million increase over last year for the 2025 budget.

Hamilton Cardinals sign Major League Baseball champ Fernando Rodney for 2025 season

The Hamilton Cardinals have made a 'significant' addition to their lineup with the signing this week of the former MLB all-star Fernando Rodney for the 2025 season.