"In 1997, former state Sen. Dick Day sponsored a bill that would allow slot machines to be installed at Canterbury Park. Back then, few people were familiar with the concept of a racino, the now-common marriage of a casino with a horse-racing track.

Day, an Owatonna Republican, argued that a racino would generate additional purse money for the Shakopee track, stimulating Minnesota's slumping racing industry, and help fund a proposed new stadium for the Twins. That began a 15-year period in which Canterbury would spend nearly $2 million to lobby for a racino -- with some of that money going to Day, who became the chief lobbyist for the cause.

Day has had a railbird's view of a legislative process that ignored public support and smothered every racino bill that came its way. He also has seen the state's racehorse industry reach the brink of collapse, with fewer than 100 thoroughbred foals expected to be born this year. Yet Day is leading the chorus that is ripping Canterbury for ending this costly and fruitless pursuit, as it chose instead to take the sure thing offered by the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux tribe."

Get the Story:
Rachel Blount: Deal is a winner for Canterbury and state (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 6/6)

Related Stories:
Shakopee Tribe to pay $75M in agreement with non-Indian track (6/6)