New role for veteran Buffalo Grove firefighter

Joe Alexander is probably best known in Buffalo Grove as the lead firefighter on the Muscular Dystrophy Association Boot Drives, in which firefighters stand at busy intersections collecting donations to help in the fight against the muscle disease.

Now he has a new way to be known around town - Battalion Chief Alexander.

Alexander, formerly a lieutenant, was awarded the promotion at a recent village board meeting. He's spent nearly 27 years with the village's fire department, where he has been involved with training, public education, customer service and the physical fitness committee.

"He is known for his high level of performance and high expectations of himself and his crew," Fire Chief Mike Baker said.

Alexander also is active in special projects taken on by the department.

"It's been an honor to serve the residents and the patrons of our town," he said.