The easiest way to connect the Verizon phone to your computer is it to buy a "data kit" specifically for your phone from Verizon. This is an overpriced data cable and a CD with a driver. After that, you create a connection just like a dial-up modem connection, but you call Verizon (#777 if I recall) and use them as your ISP. The charge for this is "anytime" minutes, regardless of when you make the call. No data tethering plan required. You'll get about 100k bps on average.

A better way to make the connection is to wirelessly connect via bluetooth, but the last time I tried this (about two years ago) Verizon had stupidly disabled all data-oriented bluetooth connections on all of their phones. When I asked why, they said "bluetooth viruses." Thank god Verizon doesn't sell any devices that can receive email. Oh wait...