Cub and Boy Scouts Open to Girls, Cowboys Quiet on Anthem Edict: Your Wednesday Evening News Roundup

Good evening. Here are some stories you may have missed today.Do you want to get this roundup via email? Sign up for our newsletters here.Girls will be allowed to join Cub Scouts starting in 2018, Boy Scouts in 2019Embracing a historic change, the Irving-based Boy Scouts of America announced Wednesday plans to admit girls into the Cub Scouts starting next year and to establish a new program for older girls using the same curriculum as the Boy Scouts.Under the plan, Cub Scout dens — the smallest unit — will be single-gender, either all-boys or all-girls. The larger Cub Scout packs will have the option to remain single gender or welcome both genders. The program for older girls is expected to start in 2019 and will enable girls to earn the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. "We believe it is critical to evolve how our programs meet the needs of families interested in positive and lifelong experiences for their children," said Michael Surbaugh, the BSA's chief scout executive.The announcement follows many months of outreach by the BSA, which distributed videos and held meetings with the Boy Scout communityTell us: What do you think about the Boy Scouts of America allowing girls to join in 2018?Previously: Girl Scouts of the USA accused Boy Scouts of America of conducting a "covert campaign" to recruit girls into its programs and boost the Boy Scouts' falling membership.  Continue reading...