Soaps and suds have gone together since 1988 at the Ichabod LaundraBar, 1501 SW 21st Street in the Washburn View Shopping Center. Monday, June 6 though, will bring a bit of change as new owners Jason McDaneld and his wife Tracy Smith McDaneld take over operation of the combination laundromat/bar.

Jason has been tending bar and managing, “…sort of,” as he puts it, for about one and a half years at the LaundraBar. It was his regular hang out when he was a student at Washburn University. With previous experience in the restaurant and bar industry, it was  a natural transition for him to step up to work there when the previous owner, who had become a friend, needed help.

When asked about short term goals, Jason said there wouldn’t be too much. The staff will remain so the familiar faces will provide some comfort through the transition. The pool tables, which are quite a draw for those waiting on their laundry, will also remain. Tracy though has plans to bring in some new barware. “We can make martinis, but we don’t have martini glasses.” Definitely a must for her, as she’s quite the Cosmo connoisseur.

For the long-term, the pair hopes to expand the bar. Jason, who has been an avid dart player in the past would like to add boards to accommodate local dart leagues. They would also like to add to the food menu, which now includes pizza, microwave sandwiches and chips.

As a Washburn alumnus, Jason would like more Ichabods to hang out. He hopes an expansion will provide space for bands and deejays to bring in the late night crowd, and a WiFi connection will encourage students to come in and study.

The Ichabod LaundraBar is open from 9am to 2am daily.

[ Story by Rio Cervantes-Reed | Photography by EJ Drake ]