Of executives and foolishness

[kandrathe]

... until one finally had the common sense to ...

That's the key. If this guy(or anyone really) lacks it, then he won't go very far.

...I can see the ready-made excuse now...

You are prejudging his behavior, but not on any facts of his past behavior. Again, you can be wary -- but I would reserve judgment until he actually does (or doesn't) do something.

There are businesses here in Naples that make hiring decisions based on religious beliefs...

Yup. Discrimination happens (all the time). There are laws to protect people from it, and yet in some areas the laws are more loosely enforced. Be glad that your religious beliefs are not as apparent as your skin color. I know of a very successful firm here in town that hires people on an interim basis(contract), and only after a year would they consider hiring them on full time payroll. I'm pretty sure that some of the factors considered are the persons "traditional" values and lifestyle. The owner of the company is very active in the community (and religious benevolence) in town, and I'm sure he only wants people to represent his firm that are like minded.