Charlotte, I am so amazed at what you say about the central valley. I live on the coast and there are lots of cyclists. The drivers are pretty good. I try to stay away as much as possible from the main streets and ride in the country. I did not realize how fortunate I am. I did do a ride out by Fresno on the Blossom Trail route (where they do the century when the fruit trees bloom) and did not notice any problem, but maybe they are more used to cyclists since they do have a ride out there. I also did some riding on the American River trail by Sacramento.

I don't understand why drivers would have so much animosity towards cyclists.
I hope that will change some day in all parts of the country.