Daddio's Diner owner takes Ice Bucket Challenge

BATAVIA – Even though Daddio's Diner owner Scott Beltran knew that Daddio's employee James Wolff was about to dump a bucket of ice cold water over his head, it still came as a surprise.

"It's just shocking," Beltran said. "It's for a good cause, though."

Beltran on Saturday participated in the ALS Association's Ice Bucket Challenge to raise money for ALS research, as well as awareness about the disease. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive, degenerative disease of the nervous system.

He said that having a bucket of ice bucket water dumped over his head was a good way to cool off as the late summer heat continues.

"I picked a good day to do it," Beltran said.

The popularity of the Ice Bucket Challenge is shown through the increase in donations to The ALS Association. Through Saturday, The ALS Association has received $62.5 million in donations, compared to $2.4 million during the same time period last year.

For Beltran and his family, the issue is personal.

"My brother's best friend died 10 years ago from ALS," said Beltran's wife, Terry Beltran. "Growing up, he was like my brother. He was very close to me."

As he participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge, Scott Beltran nominated Batavia Enterprises vice-president Austin Dempsey, Enticing Cuisine owner Jason Stoffels and El Taco Grande owner Carlos Martinez to also accept the challenge.

Daddio's Diner also will be accepting ALS donations throughout the weekend. Daddio's Diner is located at 134 W. Wilson St. in downtown Batavia.