P.S., ok, now that I've had my rant... as far as defusing the situation, what works for me in talking to motorists that think cyclists should stay off the roads is first of all to do it in person, to explain my side of the situation while trying to understand the other viewpoint. It's a lot easier to get mad at a whole group 'the lycra army' (as the term is around here) because of the bad behavior of a few (i.e., the guy that yelled at the farmer) than it is to maintain that image when talking to real, reasonable people.

First off, attend the meetings. Speak your case firmly but politely. Be friendly. Don't wear bike clothes. Encourage the police to ticket anyone breaking the law during this time period especially. Encourage all sides to know what the law is and how it applies to all vehicles. Encourage other cyclists to be especially safe/visible. Encourage the county (or farmers) to clean up the roadside debris.

Anne