It is interesting to see all the California bashing in a thread that involves the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is centered in the Pacific Northwest, basically Oregon and Washington. I suppose that California is indelibly associated with earthquakes in the popular mind, at least in the USA.

Two of the largest shakes, the 1964 Alaska quake, and the 1812 New Madrid event, in the lower Mississippi valley, had nothing to do with California directly. California is generally more active, although the large events here, historically at least, have been of somewhat lesser magnitude. What is of direct interest to Californians is the historically quiet southern third of the San Andreas fault, which hasn't moved in recorded history, and is therefore somewhat "overdue" Fountain's caution with respect to this concept are absolutely correct.

So, if one happens to live in California, you don't need to go to Las Vegas to gamble. Just wait for the next Big One. And while you are waiting, take comfort that Las Vegas is getting closer all the time.