I don't usually watch local news, but after seeing several promos for tonight's 10 p.m. newscast, I had to tune in.

You see, the promo went something like: "One couple is saying 'tanks' for the gas by giving up the naming rights to their unborn child. Just how much gas will they be getting?"

I know these are trying times, with gas prices seemingly higher every day -- although I did notice that the station on my corner was down 4 cents -- but trading naming rights for gas? Unless that kid (and parents) will be entitled to free gas for life, I would not do any such thing.

Fortunately, I am not that unborn child's mother.

It turns out that the Orlando father-to-be David Partin participated in the Dixon & Willoughby show's contest, which asked listeners what they would trade for a $100 gas card. Partin offered up the name of his future child in exchange. According to the radio hosts, he was given several opportunities to renege, but said, "a deal is a deal." Supposedly, they will be at the hospital when the child is born and, upon the naming of said child, will turn over the gift card.

"Hey, man, times are rough," said Partin, a 26-year-old landscaper. "I figure I'll be able to drive around for a couple of weeks on that gas."

The WHTQ 95.5 morning show's Web site has all the details.

Unfortunately, the story doesn't end there. The parents-to-be are taking this even further, trying to get more than the $100 in naming rights for the baby by putting it up for bid on the open market.

The possibilities are endless!

I may never hear of this again, but I am truly worried for this child.