The Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has named Nikki Weiss, of Clear Lake, as its new tourism director. She started her duties Sept. 29.
    “We are very happy to have Nikki join the Chamber team,” said Executive Director Gary Bright.  She will replace Cari Johanns, who left to pursue other opportunities.
    Weiss is currently enrolled at The Institutes International in Minneapolis working on a degree in Hospitality Management.  She will continue to pursue her degree, while working full time at the Chamber.
    “I believe I have the tools and I’m up to the challenge,” said Weiss, noting she attended Mankato State University in Minnesota two years to study marketing prior to transferring to The Institutes International to focus on hospitality management.  She said while graduates from the school generally accept positions at hotels or corporate offices, she is most interested in community hospitality.  When the position opened in Clear Lake, she eagerly applied.
    “We were very impressed with Nikki’s enthusiasm,” Bright said.  “She will bring excitement to the position and is looking forward to getting involved in all of the Chamber’s events and working toward bringing people to the Clear Lake area.”
    Weiss and her daughter, Alexis, moved to Clear Lake in May.  She said she enjoyed attending multiple events in Clear Lake this summer, as well as last year’s Christmas By The Lake.
    In light of the economy, Weiss said the Chamber’s marketing efforts are currently being directed to bus tours, as well as visitors from nearby North Iowa and Southern Minnesota communities.  She said she will focus on bringing visitors, as well as new events to the community, especially in the “off-season.”
    “I am excited to begin promoting what I love,” she said.