The year 2010 was challenging for Planet Earth. While the East Coast sweltered in record-setting high heat and humidity, the U.S. Congress abandoned its attempt to pass global warming legislation. Meanwhile, Moscow experienced a heat wave that drove residents to vodka parties and swimming to cool off, with fatal results for some. California experienced a year with no summer, causing late harvests and damage to crops that the rest of the nation depends on for food. Finally, during the holidays, the U.S. East Coast experienced a blizzard from Maine to the Carolinas that haulted transportation systems, even the venerable New York City subway.