Newport Fests Get Reprieve

Newport, R.I., jazz and folk festivals founder George Wein was granted a license to stage the two legendary events in 2009 after stepping up when the current producer, Festival Network, ran into financial troubles.

Wein founded the festivals in the 1950s but sold his production company two years ago.

He’s been granted a one-year license by the Rhode Island Properties Committee, thus earning the fests a reprieve until next year.

Newport Folk celebrates its 50th anniversary July 31 to Aug. 2, with Newport Jazz turning 55 the following weekend.