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Dayton To Take ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton plans to chill out at the Minnesota State Fair by taking a bucket of ice water over his head.

Dayton spokesman Matt Swenson said Tuesday the governor accepted the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge after being egged on by Minnesota Twins owner Jim Pohlad. Dayton will do it on live radio during Thursday's opening day of the fair.

People who take the challenge dowse themselves with freezing water to help raise awareness of Lou Gehrig's disease.

Countless athletes, celebrities, politicians and regular folks have taken the viral challenge. Those who do are entitled to extend the challenge to others. The ALS Association says it has raised nearly $23 million from the challenge so far.

Swenson says Dayton will also make a charitable contribution to ALS research.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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