Although I personally disagree with a lot of Trex's points, I have to agree with Disney Steve that these posts can be great jumping off points for discussion - however, that being said, I do find the "all or nothing" blanket statements to be a bit tiring. Trex, I think you may have an interesting perspective to offer, but I also think you are going to be ignored with this approach. Disney Steve offers some great pointers on how to start a civilized discussion without immediately alienating those who are likely to join the discussion. If you are at all interested in having a long-term presence on this board, you might want to tone it down a bit - just my humble opinion.
Yes, I also had a bank that nickel and dimed me to death, but I learned how to work their system to avoid fees until I switched to a credit union, which was great. When I moved, I switched again to BOA and have never had any fees, except the one time I unknowingly let me savings account fall below the minimum balance (my fault, but I asked them about it and they removed the fee). It's just a matter of knowing the rules and playing by them. I would never opt to keep my money in my house where it's earning nothing for me. I keep a minimum in my savings and checking account, and the rest in investments and a high-interest account (EF).