Brookhaven Democratic committee departures

Two Brookhaven Democratic executive committee members have quit, but party officials call it unrelated to the party's cross-endorsement of Republican town board member Kathy Walsh. Executive director Doug Segall and Jennifer Maertz stepped down, said new town chairman Marc Alessi, over "policy differences." Maertz, who last year ran against state Sen. Kenneth LaValle, said she wanted to do other things, particularly help female candidates. Segall said he hadn't expected to stay long-term, and will spend more time helping with his wife's graphics business and town council races. Would he aid Walsh, whom he once ran against? Segall said other candidates, particularly Connie Kepert, will get his help. -- Rick Brand