Happiest American City

According to ABC News, Holland, Michigan was recently found to be the happiest place in the United States. Holland, where there is a 16% unemployment rate and they are seemingly constantly hounded by blizzards and freezing temperatures. The city has roughly 34,000 residents who bring in an average income of about $4000 less a year than the average Michigan resident. (thanks city-data.com!) They pay a little more for income taxes. The residents do not statistically have more education than other Michigan residents. So, what's the secret?
ABC News presented a number of intertwined hypothesis, which seem pretty reasonable. They started with a few statistics - Holland has 170 Churches and over 100 volunteer groups. In interviews with ABC News, residents cited the generosity of their neighbors and churches. One unemployed man noted that a local church was giving out gas cards to people who needed them. It seems like most people in Holland who can give back, do - even if it's not much. It was also noted that Holland has a big family focus - there are lots of family restaurants, sure, but families seem to interact more in this town. They live in closer to proximity to one another and therefore get to spend more time together. There is a great sense of community and sharing. And, they also happen to have a lower crime rate than other American cities.
So I guess happiness (and beauty) doesn't come from having money. It doesn't come from having access to a wide diversity of exciting activities that one might find in a big city. It doesn't even necessarily come from having a job. The residents of Holland feel cared about by their families and neighbors. The residents of Holland take their time and money to care about others. There is a sense of belonging and support. There is a willingness to give of oneself. And there is little pretense of glory-seeking or reputation-padding.
Hm. Just a few things to think about... :)