Some people issued parking tickets from Northern Michigan University can keep cash in their pocket if they donate items to the school's food pantry.
Donations of a variety of items can reduce or eliminate a fine of up to $25, although no ramen noodles, please. The value of items is determined at drop-off, but the Marquette campus offers options in categories ranging from $5 to $25.
The next donation date is Tuesday, which coincides with the National Day of Giving. Tickets written since Aug. 1 are eligible. The Food 4 Fines program is similar to efforts elsewhere connected to parking or library fines.
