Bike Forums - Newbie in NC

Hey, new to biking here (besides having one as a kid). Just picked up a starter bike (Diamondback Outlook) on Craigslist. I am from Charlotte, NC which is not the most cyclist friendly environment from the looks of it (few bike lanes, etc). I am looking to get in better shape, and taking it easy on my knees now that I don't run as much as I used to. I have poked around the site a bit, interested in commuting, but this is not an option since I must use the interstates to get to my current job. However, I have looked into being car free on my days off to run errands and what not. But for now, I'm just easing into things and building up my endurance.