Regan Vaughn has purchased Smokestack Services, a chimney cleaning business opened by Toby Brown 15 years ago. As a volunteer firefighter, Brown started his company to reduce the number of chimney fire calls; it’s a mission that Vaughn hopes to continue.

Growing up, Vaughn spent every summer on Orcas, where his dad was general manager for Rosario Resort. His first job was as a busser in the main dining room, and seven years ago, after moving permanently to the island from Seattle, Rosario reemployed Vaughn. As the food and beverage director, he was responsible for growing and developing every aspect of the food and beverage departments. In 2018, he won the Orcas Chamber of Commerce Customer Service award.

“Rosario is an amazing community of people, a very special place for – literally – thousands, and truly difficult to walk away from,” Vaughn said. “That said, I’ve long thought of running my own business. Something different from the lifetime focus on food and drink and managing people. I liked the idea of creating a schedule to maximize time with my family and the enjoyment of this island.”

Vaughn is the father of three young children – Atticus, Miette and Rowan – and lives with his partner Karen Meng.

“We know these moments race by. We are eager to savor them,” he said. “Additionally, I see a completely different kind of opportunity: to bring service to the doorstep and safety into the home. I am grateful for this community and truly enjoy serving it; it will be gratifying to do so on a completely different level.”

For the past six months, Brown and Vaughn have been working alongside each other to ensure a smooth transition.

“I think many would be surprised by the amount of information and training that goes into being a good sweep and doing it the right way,” Vaughn said. “On top of the classes, courses, materials and certifications, there are countless details about the unique aspects of every customer and job site. I’m a lifetime advocate for education and skills training and, it seems, always happiest when engaged in it myself.”

Vaughn is offering spring and summer discounts and reminds the community that “winter is coming.” Call 376-WARM for an appointment.

Brown says he is happy to “pass the brush” to Vaughn at Smokestack Services.

“I am extremely excited that Regan has such a solid connection to the community and a reputation of ‘award-winning’ customer service. Knowing that I am leaving my community in such capable hands is very comforting,” he said.