With a federal shutdown now underway, investments in profitable and dependable companies with everyday demand (and steady dividend payments) can help investors stay grounded.The federal government officially shut down on Oct. 1 after Congress failed to pass funding, triggering furloughs across agencies and curbing some regulatory activity. But even when Washington goes dark, Americans still buy groceries, pet feed, basic hardware, and pharmacy items. That makes stalwart retailers a sensible place to look fo ...