Green Mill Celebrates Transition of Ownership After Four Decades

The iconic Green Mill tavern and nightclub is celebrating a significant milestone. Located near the corner of Lawrence and Broadway, its famous neon sign welcomes visitors each night. On June 19, the establishment will commemorate 40 years since Dave Jemilo took over ownership.

Jemilo, although no longer the owner, passed the reins to two individuals he considers family: Jason Cole and Jill Skintges. “This place has been my life for more than 40 years,” Jemilo expressed during a recent conversation seated in one of the Green Mill’s booths. He explained, “It was time. I don’t have the energy to stay until four in the morning anymore, and I want to explore other parts of life.”

The new owners, Cole and Skintges, are familiar faces to regulars. This transition alleviates the anxieties that arose last summer when Jemilo announced the Green Mill was up for sale, following his purchase of adjacent retail spaces for $5 million in 2021.

Jemilo shared, “We had several offers over the years. But it wasn’t until the pandemic that I felt worn down. Jason and Jill, both who I’ve known well, made the most sense.” Cole, 55, began working at the Green Mill at 22 as a bartender and manager with brief breaks. Skintges, a former dancer and math teacher, joined nearly 30 years ago as a waitress and bartender.

“We’re confident about the future,” says Cole, who hails from Berwyn and resides on the Northwest Side. Skintges, originally from the West Side and now in Lincolnwood, adds, “We see ourselves as stewards, caretakers.” Skintges’ daughter, Ruby, also works at the club.

The transition involved meticulous planning, requiring talks with lawyers and bankers, finalizing a deal with a few silent partners. “Some silent partners are the same people you’ve been kicking out for years,” laughed Jemilo.

“Dave gave many the chance to steer their lives toward life-changing directions,” said Marc Kelly Smith, host of the Uptown Poetry Slam.

Jemilo’s rich history with the Green Mill began in his youth, hearing about it from his father. Despite its dilapidated state, he saw its beauty when he finally visited. Born in 1956 and having pursued various career paths, including a sports stint with the Chicago Fire, Jemilo eventually acquired the Green Mill by maxing credit cards and borrowing.

Under Jemilo’s ownership, the club became a haven for jazz and diverse music styles, maintaining a straightforward, no-frills atmosphere. The club strictly follows its cash-only policy. Jemilo booked talented acts that reflected his eclectic tastes, like Marc Kelly Smith, who initiated a poetry slam that gained global popularity.

Joannie Pallatto, a singer associated with the Southport label, praised Jemilo. “His instrument was booking a revolving cast of great jazz ensembles,” she noted.

Many, including Keith Elling and Patricia Barber, found their careers flourishing at the Green Mill. The club’s storied past includes its beginnings in 1907 as Pop Morse’s Roadhouse, its speakeasy days, and ties to figures like Al Capone and Joe E. Lewis.

The Mill’s essence has been documented in various stories and a recent documentary film. Jemilo himself celebrated with a retirement bash, acknowledging his impactful journey. While not present at the upcoming anniversary, Jemilo holds the club dear, as symbolized by the tattoo of a statue associated with the Mill.

His life now revolves around his Wisconsin farm and anticipated travel adventures, reflecting on past ambitions to continue his work akin to Jazz Showcase owner Joe Segal. Jemilo notes, “You never know what life holds,” sharing how he met his wife, Rosemeire, at the Green Mill three years ago during Freeman’s performance.