by Dennis Nelson, KCBS Volunteer Coordinator
Whether it’s adventure, art, culture, travel or entertainment, Compass Point is the place for me. When I first visited Compass Point, I asked the owners, Denise Selbee-Koch and Jennifer Woerner, if they would share Kansas City Blues Society events with their audience. They said yes and shared with the audience that I was selling Legendary Rhythm & Blues cruise raffle tickets as a fundraiser for the KCBS and handed out tri-fold flyers with our KCBS events listed. From the beginning of meeting them, I felt a connection with both. When I used to go to Uncle Bo’s bar in Topeka, I used to get a big welcome hug from Suki Blakely and a goodbye hug when I left. Now I get the same great hospitality and welcome from Jennifer and Denise. They are building a legacy just like my sweet friend Suki. I consider myself their Blues Ambassador from Kansas City! I believe that that the long drive to Topeka for live music at Compass Point is well worth the time.
Nearly a decade ago, Denise and Jennifer began taking customers on hiking and kayaking events around North East Kansas and Dirty Girl Adventures was born.
In 2019, the two Dirty Girls purchased a property in NOTO, Topeka’s Arts and Entertainment District, and Compass Point was created.
Compass Point serves as a basecamp for all the events Denise and Jennifer dream up. It’s the place where people connect, learn and dream of adventure! The events available from Dirty Girl Adventures have grown to include a retail gear shop, yoga, art classes, introductory classes on adventure gear and techniques, self-improvement experiences, international travel, Midwestern adventures, and local hiking, kayaking and camping adventures. Denise and Jennifer both love live music and having Compass Point as basecamp has allowed Dirty Girl Adventures to begin offering live music events! Compass Point has live music EVERY First and Third Friday and on other weekend evenings throughout the cooler seasons. These events are inside our Backroom Bar and are more intimate events with solo or small group artists.
Topeka ArtsConnect Arty Awards
The Arty Awards are Topeka’s premier celebration of the arts, honoring the incredible artists, organizations, educators, and advocates who make our community more vibrant and creative. Presented annually by ArtsConnect, the Arty Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding contributions across visual arts, music, theatre, dance, and more. This event brings together the community to celebrate creativity, recognize artistic excellence, and inspire continued growth of the arts in Topeka and Shawnee County. It also serves as a critical fundraiser for ArtsConnect through the sale of sponsorships, tickets and tables.
Compass Point is the recipient of the 2026 Suki Blakely Performing Arts Award. This award honors a performing artist, company, or group that strengthens Topeka’s performing arts through outstanding work, audience engagement, or unique experiences.
“Compass Point is being recognized for its steadfast commitment to live music and for creating a welcoming space where artists and audiences can connect. By constantly giving musicians opportunities to perform and the community chances to experience live music up close, Compass Point has become an important part of Topeka’s cultural landscape. Its support of performers, dedication to keeping live music accessible, and ability to bring people together through shared musical experiences demonstrate the vital role that independent venues play in sustaining a vibrant local arts community.” — ArtsConnect
In their words:
“We, Denise and Jennifer of Compass Point home of Dirty Girl Adventures, are honored to be named the recipients of the Suki Blakely Performing Arts Award, which is an extra special honor. Suki was a powerhouse in the music scene. Suki set the bar for customers; we are very thankful for the customers who support our venue and the goal of providing great live music.”
Compass Point, Home of Dirty Girl Adventures is located at 800 N. Kansas Avenue, in the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka, KS.
