This just hit my inbox:

"From January 12-24, basketball officials throughout King County will blow pink whistles at all high school, junior high and middle school games. The goal is to call attention to breast cancer and to encourage students, parents and fans to make a financial contribution to organizations that support research to end this disease.

"As an incentive to others, these referees have donated a portion of their own game checks to benefit breast cancer research," said Linda Meredith, referee coordinator for the event. "We will be sending one big check from the officials at the end of the campaign. It would be great if other people would step up and donate too."

During January and February basketball fans will see referees across the country at the high school and the collegiate levels sponsoring cancer awareness programs. NCAA basketball coaches and referees have been leading the effort for the last several years. Recipients of the fundraising have been the Kay Yow fund and the Jimmy V fund, in memory of two dedicated college coaches. The Puget Sound Chapter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation is a likely local recipient.

The Seattle Officials Women’s Basketball association and the Pacific Northwest Basketball Officials Association comprise over 300 referees who are expected to use the whistles."

So, folks, next time you feel like ripping a referee, remember that they're giving part of their paltry game check to a worthy cause.