Miracle Mile businesses see boost from UOP’s new semester [Video]

STOCKTON, Calif. — In case anyone was unsure, dozens of banners affixed to light posts along the Miracle Mile stretch of Stockton‘s Pacific Avenue make it clear: Miracle Mile is Tiger territory.

“We’re so close to UOP, it’s a half a mile from here,” said Nicolle Dixon, a server at Miracle Mile business Creperie Le Pompon. “It’s a very safe neighborhood, really strong community.”

With more than 4,800 University of the Pacific Tigers back on campus for their first full weekend ahead of the start of the fall semester on Monday, business owners are excited.

“It’s almost like New Year’s for us,” said Jason Laurenti, owner of Ave on the Mile. “We have a deep connection with UOP, especially when the students come back.”

Those students include aspiring dentists and Chico native Chinenye Ihekwoeme.

“Just like walking Miracle …