8 October 1

1 It’s on

The federal shutdown has begun. As of today 800,000 workers are on furlough and millions more will be working without pay. [NY Times]

2 They’re off

Here’s a breakdown of which government employees are still on the job and which are cut loose. [NY Times]

3 Ghost train!

CTA video shows that nobody was at the controls of the Blue Line train that crashed into another train yesterday. Nobody knows how this is possible. [Sun-Times]

4 Open for business

Despite the ‘GOP pyrotechnics’ that led to the shutdown, Obamacare marches forward. New health exchanges open around the country today. [Sun-Times]

5 No private ports

Yet another privatization deal has fallen apart for Mayor Emanuel. City Hall was unable to reach a deal with the Colorado investment group to take over the Illinois Port Authority District. [Sun-Times]

6 In Chicago, JPMorgan still rules

JPMorgan Chase remains the largest bank in Chicago. Its 24 percent share of total deposits is nearly double the next largest bank, BMO Harris Bank. [Crain’s]

7 Must-win for Cubs

After firing Dale Sveum, Cubs President Theo Epstein needs to lure Joe Girardi from the Yankees if Epstein is to keep the team’s rebuild moving forward, writes Gordon Wittenmeyer. [Sun-Times]

8 Ask Amos: a sticky-fingered subordinate

What to do if you catch an employee — who’s also old enough to be your dad — stealing K-cups and TP? Grid advice columnist Amos Ornstein walks you through it while admiring your commanding sideburns. [Grid]