Welcome,
First thing to do is take the BRC (Basic Rider Course, an MSF based class). Ohio offers the course for $25 but the classes fill up fast. Go here to sign up.
http://www.motorcycle.ohio.gov/
If you are impatient and have the money some Harley Davidson dealers and a few others offer the equivalent course for about $300 with less wait.
The course is an excellent way to get started.
Once you have the course then look for a good used small motorcycle to start with. Small (<= 500cc) because they are much easier to learn on and used because you are likely to drop it and will quite possibly want to upgrade within a couple years. A used bike in a much lower investment and you can recoup most of your cost if you resell.
Also budget for good riding gear. Helmet, jacket, gloves, boots for a minimum. Riding pants are also highly recommended.
I took the class last fall and bought a Ninja 250r off of Craigs list. I will definately be getting it out of storage and starting to practice again this weekend.
Craig
BTW I’m near Cleveland