“Washington D.C. is a fantastic city even without the Smithsonian… there is so much culture and diversity in that city that I think most people don’t have time or don’t take time to experience,” said Putzke. “I think that was a great pro for all of us, we came away seeing it from a different view.”

When the federal government shut down Tuesday due to an intense disagreement over the budget, it was not the first time. In fact, it was the 18th government shutdown in U.S. history. The news of Congress’...