How can I use my iMac as a network for my iPad 2? My iMac goes online via a Verizon wireless device.  I don't know what my "network" is called and how to use it to go online on my iPad 2.
Your iMac can use it's network card to share it's internet access via Internet sharing.

The setup is very fast and simple. Password encryption is supported.

You can define the settings in System Preferences > Sharing: