If you're wondering how you're going to get the kids from point A to point B, over to C, back to B, over to D and finally back to point A again, Tcat -- Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit -- has a solution. Rod Ghearing, general manager of Tcat, recently unveiled plans for a Summer Fun Pass, aimed at busy families with children. The pass, for youths ages 6 to 18, is valid on any Tcat bus in Tompkins County from June 24 to Aug. 31, and it costs only $25. Parents of school-age children in Tompkins County will receive in the mail, within the next two weeks, a packet of information about the Summer Fun Pass.

"The pass is roughly the same price as a full tank of gas," Ghearing said. "Public transit is an economical, safe and convenient alternative for families on-the-go."

While you're working, gardening or taking it easy, your child can take a bus to a friend's house, many of Tompkins County's scenic parks, summer recreation, a summer job or even the grocery store.

If using public transit or reading a bus schedule seems like too great a task for a child, Tcat has that covered, too. Personalized trip planning is available by calling 277-RIDE. A Tcat customer service representative will map out the best routes for your child to take.

The Summer Fun Pass is the first pass marketed under the Tcat name and is a sign of things to come, such as a consolidated fare structure.

Nancy Oltz, manager of Tcat's city route service, said, "Not only will the pass save money, it'll save time -- you won't have to search for change, tickets, tokens or transfers. We've worked hard to keep it simple."

Residents who don't receive a Summer Fun Pass packet within two weeks and want one mailed to them or those who want information about any of Tcat's services, should call 277-RIDE.