wow, $25.00 per year just for a checking account. That can really add up. I hope they will give you other rewards besides the initial sign up bonuses. If already fly continental and have miles, then 25K is a better value. However, if you seldom fly Continental, then take the money and run. Managing orphan accounts is a real pain. I have 50K NW (now Delta) miles and 25K UA miles that have been difficult to use. Each year I have to top it off to avoid mile expiration.