Not trying to jump in too deep, but after reading all the posts, I thought of some things that have not been said so far...
1) I agree that most umpires do put a lot of time in to what they are doing so they can do their best, and money was getting to be an issue with high gas prices. One thing though, I don't think many people have gotten raises at their jobs recently. It seems with the current economy, every company is tightening their belts. Umpiring is no different in my opinion. Also the "bad" umpires do seem to be more frequent these days.
2) As far as the smaller schools raising more money, THEY ALREADY HAVE TO BECAUSE OF THE BAT CHANGES. Everyone has to go out and buy a BBCOR bat now. No more hand-me-downs. This has not been addressed at all in the money situation that is facing ALL schools. Most of the bat companies have set their prices high. $200 gets you a bat that I would not have wanted to use in 1986.
3) I read the outburst and the apology that TNIrish posted at the start. I understand the years that he has put in from reading his posts, but how quick was he to jump?!?!!! This is what a lot of parents, coaches and spectators see more often. A quick hateful outburst a lot of times because of "rabbit ears". If a Ump comes to the field with a CHIP or is just waiting on the first thing to be said so he can show he is in charge, this is not right! Also if the UMP thinks he KNOWS EVERYTHING, this is not right, I have always told my players that I have coached that the day you know EVERYTHING about the game, is the day you need to hang the spikes up. There is always something that can catch you off guard or out of the norm that usually occurs. Even with the apology, it proved the point of those who have voiced seeing this type of umpiring. You are out in front of everyone and everyone can see your actions, it is part of the game also!
I have respect and sympathy for those umps that do their best. I know that there is going to be some happy and some mad at every close call. Even though you don't hear it very often, thank you!