Which best and ecconomical starter lens for D50?

I just broke down and bought my first D-SLR, but now need a lens or set of lenses to go with it. I really want to cover the 35mm-200mm spectrum, so I'm either looking at a mediocre 28-200 or maybe two (18-55 and 80-200mm) lenses. Cost is still a big factor and I can always get better lenses later (already planning on a Nikon 50mm fixed 1.8 lens). I really need to stick within about $300 for my budget. What do folks recommend?

I'm an advocate of the Nikkor 28-200G. It's a very versatile lens for the money. Usually under $300. Lenses in this range always present some sort of compromise. Do a search in this forum. Much has already been posted about it.

the 18-55 DX kit lens and the nikkor 55-200 DX is also a reasonable option. or if you don't really need the zoom just having the 18-70 DX is good for a lot of shots. I personaly started out with a 28-80 G and a 55-200DX, I recently sold the 28-80 and added a refurbed 18-70.