Amaya Mitchell
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Regent 22’ Grad | 12Onyourside Digital Desk Anchor | email me @amaya.mitchell@12onyourside.com
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Articles by Amaya Mitchell
It Ain’t Just Sports: The Feel Better Lounge
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Denise Shafer from The Feel Better Lounge. We also have special guest host with Candice Smith.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Shawn Mears
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Public Address announcer, Shawn Mears. Watch here: We also spotlight: ➡️ How he got into announcing ➡️ When hard work lines up with opportunity ➡️ What’s next for Mears Listen here: ▶️ Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports HERE on YouTube 👍Like us and drop a comment on Facebook 📸 Check out highlights on Instagram
Man arrested after shots fired near VCU residential facility
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - A man was arrested after firing a weapon multiple times near a residential facility at the intersection of West Broad and North Belvidere streets, VCU Police said Monday. Officers responded after receiving reports of shots fired and took the man into custody outside the residential facility within minutes of the initial report, according to a VCU advisory. No injuries were reported in the incident. Police said the man is not affiliated with Virginia Commonwealth University.
1 injured in Chesterfield house fire
CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WWBT) - One person was injured in an early morning house fire, Chesterfield Fire and EMS says. Crews say they were called to a house fire around 4:11 a.m. in the 5500 block of West Hundred Road. Someone driving by spotted flames in the woods and called 911. The first firefighters on scene say they found the home fully engulfed in fire with flames coming through the roof. Crews say they were able to get the fire under control in 45 minutes.
Gas prices jump in Richmond, across Virginia and nationwide
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Gas prices in Richmond have risen to about $4.18 a gallon for regular, according to the latest figures from AAA. That price is up nearly 20 cents from a week ago and is now higher than the state average. Drivers across Virginia are paying about $4.14 a gallon, AAA said. Nationwide, the average price is $4.31 a gallon, up 16 cents in one week. View prices in your county here.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Henrico’s Chief of Police, Eric English
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Henrico County’s Chief of Police, Eric English.
It Ain’t Just Sports: VCU’s Chelsea Banbury
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with VCU’s newest women’s basketball head coach, Chelsea Banbury.
Grammy-winning artist buys shoes for kids in Central VA
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Grammy-winning artist, Mad Skillz, helped families in Central Virginia get a new pair of shoes before the start of school. The Richmond native posted to Instagram that he would be at Short Pump Mall and Chesterfield Towne Center on Saturday, August 22nd and throughout the weekend before the start of school.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Rodney Williams
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with former professional basketball player, entrepreneur, and venture capital professional Rodney Williams.
Dystany Spurlock returns to Highland Springs High School ahead of NASCAR Truck Series race
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Before her NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race Friday night, Dystany Spurlock returned to Highland Springs High School, where she was once a student. Before her NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race Friday night, Dystany Spurlock returned to Highland Springs High School, where she was once a student. “I used to walk these halls as a kid with a dream that may have sounded crazy to a lot of people,” Spurlock said.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Sean Smith powerlifting coach
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with powerlifting coach Sean Smith. Watch here: We also spotlight: ➡️ American Pro Meet 2026 ➡️ How Smith got into power lifting ➡️ The physical and mental battles in lifting Listen here: ▶️ Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports HERE on YouTube 👍Like us and drop a comment on Facebook 📸 Check out highlights on Instagram
It Ain’t Just Sports: Let’s catch up ft. Sam Burwell
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We are catching up on all the latest sports news with a special guest who is usually behind the camera, our director, Sam Burwell. Watch here: We spotlight: ➡️ Lebron heading to Philly ➡️ Who is the GOAT of the WNBA?
It Ain’t Just Sports: Virginia Commonwealth Games
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Charity Waldron, the games Director of Operations & Media Relations.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Richmond’s Chief Administrative Officer, Odie Donald II
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Richmond’s Chief Administrative Officer, Odie Donald II, to talk about his career in basketball to his transition to local government.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Chief of Richmond Police Rick Edwards
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Chief of Richmond Police, Rick Edwards, to talk about his path from off the court to behind the badge.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Lori Waran, Richmond Raceway’s Track President
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Richmond Raceway’s Track President, Lori Waran.
Richmond Raceway marks 80 years with NASCAR weekend Aug. 14-15
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Richmond Raceway is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, and organizers are planning a full week of events around the NASCAR weekend Aug. 14 and 15. Track President Lori Waran said the festivities begin before the weekend itself. “Everyone thinks it’s the weekend and it mostly is, but it actually starts on Tuesday of race week,” Waran said.
DJ Carter B brings new energy — and family history — to Flying Squirrels games
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - The DJ keeping the energy going at CarMax Park has deep roots in Richmond baseball. Carter Baldwin, known as DJ Carter B, is one of the resident DJs for the Richmond Flying Squirrels. His connection to the sport goes back decades — his father, Bruce Baldwin, served as general manager of the Richmond Braves. A childhood spent at the ballpark “So my connection to the Squirrels would be that my dad was the General Manager of the Richmond Braves,” Carter Baldwin said.
It Ain’t Just Sports: DJ Carter B
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with DJ Carter B, resident DJ for the Richmond Flying Squirrels.
Richmond’s Curtis Blair officiates NBA Finals Game 3
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Curtis Blair, a Richmond native and former University of Richmond standout, recently made his debut as an NBA Finals official, working Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals. The NBA selects just 12 game officials for the Finals each year. Officials are chosen based on the accuracy of their calls and team ratings.
It Ain’t Just Sports: CPR, tennis & a second chance with Adrian Murray
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Adrian Murray, co-founder of T.R.I.N.I.T.Y Tennis, to talk about purpose, perseverance, and using tennis to promote heart health and life-saving skills.
It Ain’t Just Sports: David Glass - teacher, coach, athlete
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with David Glass, former VCU women’s basketball coach and founder of First Touch Sports – a youth soccer nonprofit.
Family of Adam Oakes brings hazing awareness through new documentary
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Five years after his death, the family of Adam Oakes is bringing awareness to the dangers of hazing through a new film. “4,000 Days” follows the story of three families and their fight for change after being impacted by hazing. The film was showcased in the Tribeca Festival Wednesday. In 2021, Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning at an off-campus fraternity event after accepting a bid to pledge Delta Chi.
Family of Adam Oakes brings hazing awareness through new documentary
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Five years after his death, the family of Adam Oakes is bringing awareness to the dangers of hazing through a new film. “4,000 Days” follows the story of three families and their fight for change after being impacted by hazing. The film was showcased in the Tribeca Festival Wednesday. In 2021, Adam Oakes died from alcohol poisoning at an off-campus fraternity event after accepting a bid to pledge Delta Chi.
Chesterfield man launches Heart Strong Initiative after surviving cardiac arrest
CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WWBT) - A Chesterfield man who survived sudden cardiac arrest is launching an initiative to teach families lifesaving skills. Adrian Murray will host the Heart Strong Initiative launch Saturday at Swift Creek Middle School, combining beginner tennis instruction with hands-only CPR demonstrations.
Chesterfield man launches Heart Strong Initiative after surviving cardiac arrest
CHESTERFIELD, Va. (WWBT) - A Chesterfield man who survived sudden cardiac arrest is launching an initiative to teach families lifesaving skills. Adrian Murray will host the Heart Strong Initiative launch Saturday at Swift Creek Middle School, combining beginner tennis instruction with hands-only CPR demonstrations.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Life after sports with Senator Mike Jones
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Sen. Mike Jones to talk about life after sports. Watch here: We also spotlight: ➡️Setting yourself up for success as an athlete ➡️The transition to other careers after sports ➡️Our picks for the NBA Finals Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports HERE on YouTube.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Sit down with Devin George
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with up and coming NASCAR driver Devin George. Watch here: We also spotlight: ➡️How he got into the sport ➡️NBA playoff latest ➡️What it takes to become a NASCAR driver Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below:
Richmond art park proposed under Manchester Bridge
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - A group of Richmond artists is working to create a permanent art park under the Manchester Bridge near the floodwall. Artist Ian Hess recently hosted “Proof in the Park,” a temporary installation to demonstrate the concept to city officials. The walls filled with artwork were up for a few days. Richmond artists are working to create a permanent art park under the Manchester Bridge near the floodwall. “It’s been like nothing else I’ve ever done in my life. It was crazy.
It Ain’t Just Sport: Playoff Heat, Rodgers’ Return & LeBron’s Next Move
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We talk about the NBA Playoffs. Watch here: We also spotlight: ➡️ Spurs beat OKC ➡️Aaron Rodgers back to the Steelers ➡️What’s next for Lebron? Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below:
It Ain’t Just Sports: NBA lottery and playoffs
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We start with a huge shoutout to the Petersburg High School State Champions and the unveiling of the newly wrapped transit but in their honor.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Women’s tackle football w/ Frann Haskins
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Frann Haskins to talk about her role on the River City Sting, a women’s tackle football team.
‘A miracle to me’: Woman celebrates 30 years with mother’s donated kidney, receives second transplant
HENRICO, Va. (WWBT) - Dorcas Stephens said she wanted to see her daughter graduate, her grandsons born and their graduations. At 63, she has seen all of that and more, thanks to two kidney transplants at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital. Mother's kidney gift lasts 30 years, nearly double life expectancy Her most recent transplant happened in February. But the first one, nearly 30 years ago, made hospital history.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Henrico Sports and Entertainment Authority w/ Dennis Bickmeier
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Executive director of the Henrico Sports & Entertainment Authority, Dennis Bickmeier. Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below:
It Ain’t Just Sports: VCU Men’s basketball with special guest Phil Martelli Jr.
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with VCU Men’s basketball coach Phil Martelli Jr. Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below: Copyright 2026 WWBT. All rights reserved.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Richmond Volleyball Club
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with the executive director of Richmond Volleyball Club, Whitney Curtis. Topics in this episode: RVC Serves Economic impacts of RVB tournaments Week of Giving Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below: Copyright 2026 WWBT. All rights reserved.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Black College Invitational Championship w/ Wes Bellamy
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Dr, Wes Bellamy to talk about the Black College Invitational Championship. Its a weekend of HBCU basketball you won’t want to miss. Buy tickets to the Black College Invitational Championship here. Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below:
Virginia’s first breast milk depot opens at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, in partnership with the King’s Daughters Milk Bank, has opened the first milk depot in Virginia. The drive-through depot allows pre-screened parents to drop off donated breast milk at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond. The milk is then used to feed babies all across the country. Karen Webb, associate chief nursing officer at the Children’s Hospital, said human milk makes a difference for premature babies.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Olympics PT. 2, Sherrone Moore update, & Pat Riley’s statue
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We talk all things Winter Olympics from the big U.S. men’s hockey team winning gold to the stellar figure skating performance by Alysa Liu. We also spotlight: ➡️An update on the Sherrone Moore case - Was it all a setup?
Richmond high school senior wins Young History Maker Award
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - A Richmond high school senior is being recognized by the Valentine Museum as the 2026 Young Richmond History Maker Award winner. Elijah Lee, 18, has gained national attention through features in People Magazine, Scholastic Math Magazine and an appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” Lee said this local honor means more to him than national recognition. Elijah Lee, 18, has gained national attention through several features.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Olympics, eligibility limits, and hard work vs. talent
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We talk all things Winter Olympics and what moments have caught our attention. Watch: We also spotlight: ➡️Eligibility limits - When is it time to call it quits? ➡️Hard work vs. talent - Which one will get you further? Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below:
It Ain’t Just Sports: Super Bowl debrief and special guest Maggie Doogan
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with Richmond Spiders forward Maggie Doogan to talk about her record breaking season with the women’s basketball team. Watch: We also spotlight: ➡️Our thoughts on the Superbowl ➡️Halftime show opinions ➡️Are Cardi B and Stefon Diggs over?
It Ain’t Just Sports: Richmond Flying Squirrels w/ Special guest Todd “Parney” Parnell
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We sit down with former CEO of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, Todd “Parney” Parnell.
Virginia Union coach to serve as assistant at East‑West Shrine Bowl
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Virginia Union University is excited to announce its head football coach has been selected for a top honor. Dr. Alvin Parker will serve as an assistant coach for the East Team in the 2026 East-West Shine bowl on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in Frisco, Texas. The East-West Shrine Bowl is one of the nation’s premier college all-star football showcases. It features top senior collegiate athletes and coaching staffs from across the country.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Superbowl predictions, College football Championship, NCAA betting
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: We talk about all things NFL from Superbowl predictions, to the Bills devastating loss, and even the future of the Steelers after Mike Tomlin stepped down.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Playoff games recap and Trae Young trade
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: Conspiracies on why so many 49ers get injuries. Watch: We also spotlight: ➡️Recap of playoff games ➡️Trae Young trade Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below: Copyright 2026 WWBT. All rights reserved.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Special guest Faith Wilkerson, Sunday football rundown
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. In this episode: Faith Wilkerson sits down with us to talk about the importance of teaching athletes about public speaking.
It Ain’t Just Sports: Time to catch up
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - This week we are not dropping a new episode of It Ain’t Just Sports, but encouraging people to go back and rewatch or catch up on previous episodes. Here’s an update from one of our hosts Amaya Mitchell: Watch all episodes of It Ain’t Just Sports: If you prefer an audio version, you can listen to all episodes below: Copyright 2025 WWBT. All rights reserved.
It Ain’t Just Sports: UVA takes down Tech, Lane Kiffin drama, ‘soft’ athlete debate
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We’re back with another episode of It Ain’t Just Sports — where the games are just the start of the conversation. This week, we get into a generational showdown: 👉 Is the newer generation of athletes “softer” or just more self-aware? 👉 Did older athletes handle rejection and adversity differently?
Black Friday shoppers find smaller crowds at Chesterfield Towne Center
CHESTERFIELD, Va. — Black Friday shoppers at Chesterfield Towne Center said crowds were noticeably smaller this year, but deals and the shopping experience remained strong. Hundreds spent their Black Friday at the mall hoping to score bargains. Many shoppers said they were surprised by the reduced crowds compared to previous years. “Honestly not that busy, I’ve seen more busier malls than this,” said Eva Robinson.
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