The Sacramento region will get nearly $87 million in federal flood protection funds after President Obama signed a key water and energy bill Wednesday. The 2010 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act provides $63 million for Folsom Dam modifications designed to help decrease flooding risks in the American River watershed. That project is expected to provide 200-year flood protection for much of the area, according to U.S. Rep. Doris Matsui, who fought for the funding. “Sacramento is the most at-risk river city in the country,” Matsui said in a written statement. “We live among one of the most important water projects in America today that provides water and

U.S. Rep. Doris Matsui on Thursday will host a Sacramento workshop to help small business owners learn how to access federal stimulus funds and other resources. Staff from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Federal Technology Center will provide information about American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds and federal grants, and how both can help people who own small businesses or who are considering starting them, according to a press release put out by Matsui's office. “Even in these challenging economic times, there are opportunities for entrepreneurs to start a new business here in Sacramento, or for existing business to help make ends meet, build off successful busines