where to open an account?

[chopchoi]

I've never invested in stock before, but I want to give it a try. I only have about $2,000 to invest, and I'm not sure where I want to open my account. I think I would like to just buy a few shares and hold on to them at first, and diversify my portfolio gradually, as I continue to save money. The problem is that I can't seem to find a brokerage house that will offer an account with terms I find acceptable. Schwab won't let me open an account with less than $10,000. E-trade charges a $40 quarterly maintenance fee if I don't make at least 2 trades. I want to be able to buy and hold, and don't want to be forced to buy more if I don't feel like it just to avoid a fee. What I would like is an account that charges a reasonable commission, and won't penalize you for not trading. Any suggestions?