The American Cancer Society has cut ties to the Oneida Nation of New York because the tribe purchased a cigarette manufacturing plant.

"In our eyes, by purchasing a manufacturing plant they have joined the ranks of Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds," Lisa Smith, a regional vice president of the group, told The Syracuse Post-Standard.

The decision could affect the Coaches vs. Cancer benefit. But host Jim Boeheim, a cancer survivor and Syracuse University men's basketball coach, said he will continue to host fundraisers at the tribe's Turning Stone Resort and Casino.

"We raise $150,000 more there than any place else because they pay for the entertainment, they charge us nothing for the facility, and they give us a deal on the food," he told the paper.

The tribe Sovereign Tobacco in October 2008 for $6.6 million. The company produces two cigarette brands that are sold at tribal stores.

Get the Story:
Anti-cancer group breaks ties with Turning Stone, but SU basketball coach Jim Boeheim to continue fundraiser there (The Syracuse Post-Standard 9/18)

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Oneida Nation buys cigarette factory for $6.6M (9/17)