Riding Buddy/Mentor Needed in Connecticut :)

Hello Everyone,

Let me start by saying I haven't ridden a bike in about 12 years. So I'm pretty excited about starting up again. Not surprisingly things have changed so much in the past 12 years, I just don't know where to begin or better yet where to ride. I think I'll be visiting a bike shop this weekend and purchasing a new bike. Nothing expensive, just something (preferably a Giant) to start me off. I have a couple of old high school friend and coworkers but no one into cycling. So I'm pretty much by myself on this one. Any advice, and tips would help. My ultimate goal, to ride long distance and be fit again. Thanks Everyone.