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Toronto’s Mayor Ford takes ice bucket challenge, calls out Wynne, PM

That would certainly blow out the cobwebs.

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford was doused on Saturday by a bucket of ice cold water, becoming the latest public figure to participate in the so-called “ice bucket challenge.”

Ford recorded the soaker joining hundreds — or more likely thousands — of other videos from big-name celebrities to athletes in what’s fast-becoming something of a global craze.

The challenge is raising cash for ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The debilitating disorder has been thrust into the spotlight this week after revelations the late Robin Williams had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a similar disorder.

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MORE: Complete Robin Williams coverage 

Since the revelation by Williams’ wife, thousands have taken the ice bucket challenge which aside from being showered with freezing cold water requires a donation to ALS and Parkinson’s research.

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The origins of the challenge came from a Boston College baseball player named Pete Frates, whose career was cut short by ALS. After having ice water dumped on him, Frates then challenged others, including Boston Red Sox players and celebrities.

The tragic news this week revived the challenge once again.

MORE: Has the ice bucket challenge run its course?

As for Ford’s targets to take their own challenge, he’s aiming high. The Toronto mayor called on Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Prime Minister Stephen Harper to take their own plunge for a good cause. He also called on good pal and ABC late night talkshow host Jimmy Kimmel to accept the challenge.

Ford was originally challenged by former Toronto Maple Leafs tough guy Tie Domi.

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