The Green Mill, a historic tavern and nightclub located near the corner of Lawrence and Broadway, remains a beloved fixture in the community. Known for its vibrant history and welcoming neon sign, it will mark a special occasion next Friday, June 19. This date commemorates 40 years since the former owner, Dave Jemilo, began his stewardship of the venue. With pride, Jemilo, who no longer owns the establishment, has entrusted it to two individuals he regards as family.
Jemilo reflects on his time at the Green Mill, acknowledging the demands that ownership imposed. ‘This place has been my life for more than 40 years,’ he shared. ‘It was time. Nothing dramatic. I just don’t think I have the energy that high level that it takes to be here every day until sometimes four in the morning. And there is other stuff in life I’d like to do.’
The new owners, Jason Cole and Jill Skintges, are no strangers to the Green Mill’s community. Regular patrons can rest easy, knowing that the beloved establishment’s legacy will be preserved by familiar hands. Though offers for the property had been made over the years, Jemilo made the decision to sell during challenging times following the coronavirus pandemic. He shared his thoughts, ‘There were a lot of people interested, and one man in particular I really liked, but Jason and Jill made the most sense.’
Cole, who has served as both a bartender and manager, began working at the Green Mill during his college years. Skintges, a former professional dancer and math teacher, transitioned into the role of bartender/waitress nearly three decades ago. They bring firsthand experience and enthusiasm to their new roles, with Cole expressing optimism about the future. ‘We have both been able to watch closely how Dave works and that has been an inspiring foundation,’ Cole stated.
Skintges views their ownership as a responsibility, likening themselves to stewards of the establishment. Their commitment to maintaining the Green Mill’s reputation and charm is unwavering. They recognize the challenges of owning a tavern and spent considerable time arranging the purchase, which includes a few silent partners. ‘Some of those partners are the same people you’ve been throwing out of here for years,’ Jemilo added with a laugh.
The Green Mill’s storied past is an essential part of its identity. Jemilo first heard of the venue during visits with his father in his youth, recalling the tales of its influence and allure. Despite its decline in the past, he saw its potential and invested his resources to revitalize it. Since opening on June 19, 1986, the Green Mill has offered an inviting atmosphere, praised for its classic design and reasonable prices. The venue quickly became known for a diverse range of musical acts that appealed to a wide audience.
A crucial component of the Green Mill’s legacy is the Uptown Poetry Slam, initiated by Marc Kelly Smith. This event contributed to the rise of poetry slams worldwide, and Smith praised Jemilo for providing opportunities to performers, staff, and musicians alike.
Musician Joannie Pallatto and her husband Bradley Parker Sparrow note Jemilo’s contributions to the jazz scene, praising the venue for its role in both seasoned and emerging artists’ careers. Formerly a speakeasy and nightclub linked to figures such as Al Capone, the Green Mill has survived both good and challenging times, enduring as a community treasure.
Despite stepping away, the spirit of the Green Mill remains with Jemilo, reflected in a tattoo of Ceres, the Goddess of Harvest, on his arm. He spends much of his time on his Wisconsin farm, enjoying life beyond the tavern’s doors.
Jemilo’s relationship with the Green Mill mirrors his approach to life and career. His marriage to Rosemeire, a meeting sparked by the shared love of music, embodies the connections fostered at the iconic venue.
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