Just a note on Scottrade; the basic charge is $7.00 on each buy and sell, but if the share price is less than $4.00 per share, they tack on a 1/2 of 1% of the total buy. Still great service for low price. On cash accounts, if you hand deliver a check, it will be available for trading the same day. They just started a "bank" which gives you FDIC coverage for your money and instant transfer to your brokerage account.
No minimum (that I know of) for opening an account.
Good Luck, habadg!
Don't take my word for it, Do your own research! Then you will know it's true!