The New York State Police is conducting an investigation into the circumstances of the shooting involving Trooper Thomas Mascia that was reported on October 30th.  Investigators are currently executing a search warrant at Trooper Mascia’s residence.   Investigators have canceled the BOLO (Be on the Lookout) for the black Charger with NJ temporary registration.  This remains an ongoing investigation, and further updates will follow.

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that TROY CARUSO, the owner and chief executive officer of a commercial construction and contracting company headquartered in New York, New York (the “Contracting Company”), and JOHN NOLAN, a senior executive at the Contracting Company, pled guilty Friday, November 1, 2024, to conspiring to commit honest services wire fraud in connection with their scheme to pay kickbacks to a senior project manager at a Fortune 500 real estate services firm in order to obtain contracting work.  CARUSO and NOLAN pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who is scheduled to sentence CARUSO on February 12, 2025, and NOLAN on February 13, 2025. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Corruption has no place in our business landscape.  Troy Caruso and John Nolan sought to exploit the system for their own benefit, but today’s outcome shows that integrity will prevail.  This Office is dedicated to ensuring that the integrity of our contracting processes is upheld, and we will relentlessly pursue those who engage in such dishonest schemes.” According to the documents filed in this case, including the Indictment and the plea agreements of CARUSO and NOLAN, and statements made in Court:  From at least in or about February 2021, up to and including in or about September 2023, CARUSO and NOLAN agreed to pay, and did pay, kickbacks to an employee of a global and publicly traded commercial real estate services company (the “Real Estate Firm”) in exchange for assistance and preferential treatment so that the Contracting Company would be awarded projects managed by the Real Estate Firm (the “Kickback Scheme”). In or about March 2021, CARUSO and NOLAN were introduced by an individual (“CC-1”) to a senior project manager at the Real Estate Firm (“CC-2”).  CC-2 managed the process by which contracting companies bid for, and were awarded, contracts to work on construction projects for various of the Real Estate Firm’s clients. Beginning in or about March 2021, because of the Kickback Scheme, CC-2 took a series of actions CC-2 otherwise would not have taken to ensure that the Contracting Company was awarded a pre-construction contract and a construction contract relating to a certain project (“Project-1”), which was managed by the Real Estate Firm on behalf of its client, a health services business that provides hospital, medical, and other health services to patients.  For example, CC-2 ensured that the Contracting Company was on the Real Estate Firm’s “bid list” so that it could submit bids relating to Project-1 that it otherwise could not have submitted.  CC-2 also provided non-public information to CARUSO and NOLAN about the bidding process, and recommended the Contracting Company for both the pre-construction contract and the construction contract relating to Project-1.  As a result of the Kickback Scheme and CC-2’s actions, the Contracting Company was awarded the pre-construction and construction contracts for Project-1, the latter of which was valued at approximately $3.55 million (to be paid to the Contracting Company). In exchange for CC-2’s assistance and preferential treatment, CARUSO and NOLAN agreed to pay kickbacks to CC-2 in the amount of approximately one percent of the construction value of any project managed by the Real Estate Firm that resulted in a contract award to the Contracting Company.  Accordingly, CARUSO and NOLAN agreed to pay CC-2 approximately $35,500 for Project-1, and ultimately paid CC-2 approximately $33,000 in kickbacks for CC-2’s assistance on Project-1.  Most of these payments were made in cash at locations around New York City.  CARUSO and NOLAN also paid CC-1 approximately $15,000 for CC-1’s assistance in the Kickback Scheme, which included connecting CC-2 with CARUSO and NOLAN. CARUSO and NOLAN attempted to obtain additional contracts from the Real Estate Firm, with CC-2’s assistance as part of the Kickback Scheme.  Between in or about 2022 and in or about 2023, in exchange for CARUSO and NOLAN’s promise of payment for any contract awarded to the Contracting Company, CC-2 provided CARUSO and NOLAN with assistance relating to two additional construction projects managed by the Real Estate Firm that did not result in contract awards to the Contracting Company.                                 * CARUSO, 57, of Smithtown, New York, and Ludlow, Vermont, and NOLAN, 43, of Brooklyn, New York, each pled guilty to one count of honest services wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The statutory maximum penalty is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as the defendants’ sentences will be determined by a judge.  Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Special Agents and the Task Force Officers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Mr. Williams also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their assistance in the investigation.  This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jane Kim is in charge of the prosecution. Contact Nicholas Biase, Shelby Wratchford(212) 637-2600

On October 28, 2024, at about 4:15 p.m., State Police in Herkimer responded to Butler Road in the town of Newport for a crash involving a motor vehicle and an Amish Buggy. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 Jeep Renegade operated by Andrew Bienkowski , age 36, from Newport, NY was traveling east on Butler Road in the town of Newport when it struck the rear portion of the Amish Buggy traveling in the same direction.   As a result of the collision, both occupants of the Amish buggy, Rebecca Swartzentruber , age 31, from Newport, and one-year-old Mattie Swartzentruber were ejected. Rebecca Swartzentruber was pronounced deceased at the scene.   Mattie Swartzentruber was transported to Wynn Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The operator of the vehicle, Bienkowski was not injured in the crash. State Police were assisted on the scene by the Newport Fire Department, Schuyler Volunteer Fire Company, and Kuyahoora Valley Ambulance. The investigation is continuing. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-amish-buggy-fatal-newport

On October 26, 2024, at approximately 1:17 a.m., troopers from the Highland barracks observed a 2022 Hyundai Elantra traveling northbound on Route 9W in the town of Lloyd in violation of numerous vehicle and traffic law infractions. Troopers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the vehicle refused to comply.  The troopers pursued the vehicle towards the city of Poughkeepsie and terminated the pursuit before entering the city.  The vehicle was later spotted and reported to have been in a collision with multiple unoccupied parked vehicles in a parking lot on Main Street in the city of Poughkeepsie.  Troopers located the vehicle unoccupied.  Troopers and the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department located the suspects at the intersection of Mill St and North Bridge Street, where they were subsequently arrested. The suspects were identified as an 18-year-old male from Bogota, NJ, and Amari Webb , age 19 of Poughkeepsie, NY.  Located within the vehicle were three illegal handguns. Webb and the 18-year-old suspect were both charged with the following: •              (3) counts Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree, class “D” felony •              (3) counts Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree, class “C” felony Webb also received multiple traffic violations. Both suspects appeared in the town of Lloyd Court on October 29, 2024, and where remanded to the Ulster County Jail with bail set at $200,000 cash, $300,000 bond, and $400,000 partially secured bond. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/two-teens-arrested-weapons-charges-following-crash-poughkeepsie

Press Release On October 29, 2024, State Police members arrested Jammie R. Reynolds, age 47, of Saranac Lake, NY, for unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, tampering with physical evidence, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, criminal use of drug paraphernalia (2 counts) reckless driving, and aggravated unlicensed operator. Also arrested was Leigha R. Rice, age 38, of Key Largo, FL, for tampering with physical evidence, criminal possession of a controlled substance, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia (2 counts). On October 29, 2024, at approximately 4:11 p.m., Troopers observed a gray 2011 Honda CRZ violate a vehicle and traffic law on Bloomingdale Ave in the town of Harrietstown.  Troopers initiated a traffic stop, which led to the vehicle failing to comply, and a pursuit started. The pursuit lasted approximately 34 minutes, traveling about 37 miles, ending on County Route 26 in the town of Duane when a stinger deployment was authorized on the suspect's vehicle. The tire deflation device was successful, and the driver and passenger were taken into custody. The driver was identified as Reynolds, and the passenger was identified as Rice.   Reynolds and Rice were transported to SP Malone for processing. They both were released on appearance tickets returnable to the Town of Duane Court for a later date and time.  Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/two-individuals-arrested-stemming-pursuit

PRESS RELEASE Update – Fernando Jimenez was arraigned before the town of Somers Court for the charges of Murder in the 2nd degree, a class A-I felony, two counts of Attempted Murder in the 2nd degree, a class B felony, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd degree, a class C felony. Jimenez was remanded to the Westchester County Jail without bail. He is next scheduled to appear before the court on November 4, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. Update - Fernando Jimenez has been apprehended and is in State Police custody.  Additional details to follow. Update - State Police Investigators are requesting that members of the public please check their trail or home security cameras for possible sightings. Please call (914) 769-2600 with any relevant information.   October 29, 2024 - The New York State Police are investigating a shooting that occurred in the town of Somers at approximately 11:35 p.m. on October 28th. One victim is deceased. Two victims are receiving care at local area hospitals.   The suspect, , age 40, was last known to be in the Peekskill Hollow Road area in Putnam Valley.  Jimenez was familiar with the victims.   Do not make contact or approach Jimenez who is believed to be armed. If you believe you have information regarding his whereabouts call 911 immediately.   Jimenez is approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, 170 pounds, and was wearing black sweatpants and a grey sweatshirt at the time of the incident.   There is a large police presence on Peekskill Hollow Road, please avoid the area. Updates will be provided as they become available. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/updated-nysp-searching-murder-suspect

On October 27th, 2024 at approximately 11:00 PM Utica Police units were dispatched to the Wynn Hospital regarding a walk-in stabbing investigation. Upon arrival, they spoke to the victim who stated that while at his residence he engaged in an argument with his girlfriend. During the course of the argument, the female brandished a knife and cut the male across the face. The male also had several defensive lacerations across his hands and arms. Upon obtaining all the relevant information from the victim, the officers and investigators went to the location of the incident on the 900 block of Arnold Ave. Once on scene, the officers located evidence consistent with the assault, and the scene was processed. They also located the suspect, Taneka Davis age 40, and took her into custody. She was transported to the Utica Police Department and was charged with: Assault in the second degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the fourth degree https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0phXMqXafTs3tp8JepiZaYhJs2AH9NKWx66jh1bfzKyj2QtrMa2HhPzxE4QBWzVmVl&id=100064802073577

In today’s fast-paced digital world, small businesses need innovative and effective marketing strategies to stand out. One powerful option gaining traction is digital billboards. My Upstate NY Marketing LLC, a local marketing agency, emphasizes the advantages of utilizing digital billboards for small businesses in the Central New York area. Here’s why this modern advertising method can elevate your business visibility and drive success. 1. Eye-Catching Visuals Digital billboards offer vibrant, high-resolution displays that capture attention more effectively than traditional static billboards. With dynamic content capabilities, businesses can showcase images, videos, and animations that are sure to engage passersby. This is especially beneficial in busy areas of Central New York, where capturing attention quickly is crucial. 2. Flexibility and Real-Time Updates One of the standout features of digital billboards is the ability to change content frequently and easily. My Upstate NY Marketing LLC highlights that businesses can adjust their messaging based on time of day, season, or current promotions. For example, a restaurant can display breakfast specials in the morning and dinner deals in the evening, ensuring that the content remains relevant and appealing to target audiences. 3. Targeted Advertising Digital billboards can be strategically placed in high-traffic areas that are most relevant to your target market. For small businesses in Central New York, working with a local agency like My Upstate NY Marketing LLC ensures that your advertising reaches the right audience. By selecting locations with high visibility and foot traffic, businesses can enhance brand awareness and attract new customers. 4. Cost-Effectiveness While digital billboards may seem expensive at first glance, they can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to traditional advertising. My Upstate NY Marketing LLC helps small businesses analyze their budgets and determine how digital billboard advertising can provide a strong return on investment. With lower production costs for changing ads and the ability to run shorter campaigns, businesses can maximize their marketing dollars. 5. Increased Engagement and Brand Recall Studies show that digital billboards can significantly increase engagement rates compared to traditional static billboards. The eye-catching nature of digital ads, coupled with the ability to convey messages quickly, enhances brand recall. For small businesses looking to build a loyal customer base in Central New York, this is a critical advantage. 6. Integration with Online Marketing Digital billboards can complement your online marketing efforts. My Upstate NY Marketing LLC emphasizes that businesses can use QR codes, social media handles, or website links in their digital ads, encouraging viewers to engage further. This seamless integration helps bridge the gap between offline and online marketing strategies, creating a comprehensive approach to customer engagement. 7. Supporting Local Business Initiatives By utilizing digital billboards, small businesses can contribute to the local economy and community initiatives. My Upstate NY Marketing LLC often collaborates with local artists and events to promote community engagement, allowing businesses to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Conclusion For small businesses in the Central New York area, digital billboards represent a modern, effective, and flexible advertising solution. With the expertise of My Upstate NY Marketing LLC, local businesses can harness the power of digital signage to enhance their visibility, engage customers, and drive growth. As the marketing landscape continues to evolve, investing in digital billboards is a savvy move that can help small businesses thrive in a competitive environment.

Scout Motors, a name that once resonated with adventure and rugged utility, is making a comeback as a modern electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. Originally launched in the 1960s, the Scout brand gained fame for its versatile trucks and SUVs, capturing the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts and off-roaders alike. With the automotive landscape rapidly evolving towards electrification, Scout Motors aims to blend its storied legacy with cutting-edge technology, paving the way for a new generation of vehicles. 1. A Brief History of the Scout Brand The International Scout was first produced by International Harvester from 1961 until 1980. Designed as a compact SUV, it offered a blend of off-road capability and everyday practicality, making it popular among farmers, outdoor adventurers, and families. Despite its discontinuation, the Scout has maintained a loyal following, with many enthusiasts restoring and preserving these classic vehicles. 2. The Revival of Scout Motors In 2021, the Scout brand was revived under the ownership of Volkswagen Group of America, which saw an opportunity to reintroduce the name in the context of the growing electric vehicle market. The new Scout Motors aims to leverage the brand's heritage while incorporating modern technology and sustainability into its vehicles. 3. Electric Vehicles with Purpose Scout Motors is focused on producing electric trucks and SUVs designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Their mission is to create vehicles that not only perform well on the road but also excel in off-road conditions. This focus on utility and adventure aligns with the original Scout’s ethos, aiming to cater to a demographic that values durability and capability. 4. Design and Innovation The new Scout vehicles are expected to feature bold, rugged designs that pay homage to the classic models while integrating contemporary aesthetics. With a commitment to sustainability, Scout Motors plans to use recyclable materials and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Advanced technologies, including connectivity features and autonomous driving capabilities, will likely be part of the offering, appealing to tech-savvy consumers. 5. The Future of Scout Motors As Scout Motors prepares to launch its first models, it faces the challenge of entering a competitive market dominated by established players in the electric vehicle space. However, the brand's unique heritage and focus on adventure-oriented vehicles could set it apart. By combining nostalgia with modern advancements, Scout Motors aims to carve out a niche that resonates with both former fans of the original Scout and a new generation of eco-conscious drivers. 6. Commitment to Sustainability Scout Motors is also committed to sustainability beyond just electric powertrains. The brand plans to engage in responsible sourcing of materials and aim for carbon-neutral production processes. This aligns with broader industry trends toward environmental responsibility, addressing growing consumer demand for greener options. Conclusion Scout Motors is positioned to become a significant player in the electric vehicle market by reviving a beloved brand and adapting it for modern needs. With a focus on adventure, sustainability, and innovative design, Scout Motors not only honors its legacy but also looks forward to a future that embraces the challenges and opportunities of the electric era. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the return of the Scout brand could bring a refreshing blend of nostalgia and innovation, appealing to a diverse audience of both outdoor enthusiasts and electric vehicle advocates. Sources: https://www.scoutmotors.com/

Climate change is an increasingly pressing issue that affects regions around the globe, and New York is no exception. With its dense population, diverse ecosystems, and significant economic infrastructure, the state faces unique challenges as it confronts the impacts of a changing climate. This article explores the implications of climate change in New York, the ongoing efforts to combat it, and the path forward for a more sustainable future. 1. Impacts of Climate Change in New York New York is experiencing the multifaceted effects of climate change, which include: Rising Temperatures : Average temperatures in New York have increased by approximately 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit over the past century. This warming trend contributes to more extreme weather events, such as heatwaves. Increased Precipitation and Flooding : The state has seen a rise in heavy rainfall events, leading to urban flooding and challenges in water management. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding during storms. Sea Level Rise : With a long coastline and many low-lying areas, New York faces significant threats from rising sea levels. Projections indicate that sea levels could rise by up to 6 feet by the end of the century, endangering infrastructure and ecosystems. Ecosystem Disruption : Changes in climate affect wildlife and plant species, leading to shifts in habitats and biodiversity loss. This disruption impacts local agriculture and the natural beauty of the region. 2. Community and Economic Vulnerabilities The effects of climate change disproportionately impact vulnerable communities in New York, particularly low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. These areas often lack the resources to adapt to climate-related challenges, such as increased flooding or heat, exacerbating existing inequalities. Economically, the cost of climate inaction can be staggering. Damage from extreme weather events, infrastructure repairs, and health impacts from heat stress and poor air quality can burden state and local budgets, making proactive measures essential. 3. State Initiatives and Policies New York has been proactive in addressing climate change through various initiatives: Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) : Enacted in 2019, this landmark legislation sets ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. New York aims to achieve a carbon-free electricity sector by 2040 and a 70% renewable energy target by 2030. Resiliency Programs : The state has invested in infrastructure projects designed to enhance resilience against climate impacts. This includes elevating roads, improving drainage systems, and restoring coastal ecosystems. Public Awareness and Education : New York is focused on increasing public awareness about climate change and encouraging sustainable practices among residents and businesses. 4. Community Engagement and Local Solutions Grassroots organizations and local communities play a critical role in combating climate change. Initiatives such as community gardens, local clean energy projects, and environmental justice advocacy are essential for building resilience and fostering sustainability at the local level. Cities like New York City are also implementing their own climate action plans, which include increasing green spaces, investing in public transportation, and improving energy efficiency in buildings. 5. The Path Forward While challenges remain, the path forward is filled with opportunities for innovation and collaboration. New Yorkers can take individual actions, such as reducing energy consumption, supporting local businesses, and advocating for sustainable policies. Additionally, investing in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and community resilience projects will be crucial for addressing the ongoing impacts of climate change. By fostering partnerships between government, businesses, and communities, New York can lead the way in climate action. Conclusion Climate change poses significant threats to New York, but with a combination of policy initiatives, community engagement, and individual action, the state can navigate these challenges. By prioritizing sustainability and resilience, New York has the potential to emerge as a model for climate action, demonstrating that a united approach can lead to a healthier, more equitable future for all its residents. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) : Offers comprehensive information on climate change initiatives, policies, and impacts in New York. NY DEC Climate Change New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) : Provides details on energy efficiency programs, renewable energy goals, and the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). NYSERDA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) : Supplies data on climate trends, sea level rise, and extreme weather patterns affecting New York. NOAA Climate Data New York City Mayor’s Office of Climate Resiliency : Contains information on NYC-specific climate initiatives, resilience planning, and community engagement efforts. NYC Climate Resiliency Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) : Offers scientific assessments of climate change impacts, including global and regional effects relevant to New York. IPCC Reports U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) : Provides resources on climate change impacts and actions at the state level, including New York. EPA Climate Change Climate Action Council : Details the progress and strategies related to the CLCPA and other climate initiatives in New York. NY Climate Action Council

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, preparing your home for winter is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. Here’s a detailed guide to help you winterize your house effectively. 1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors One of the most critical steps in winter preparation is ensuring that your home is well-insulated. Drafty windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss. Check for Gaps:  Inspect the edges of windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Seal with Caulk:  Use weatherproof caulk to seal any gaps you find. For larger openings, consider using foam insulation. Install Weather Stripping:  Replace worn-out weather stripping on doors and windows to block cold air. 2. Service Your Heating System A well-functioning heating system is vital for staying warm during winter. Schedule a Professional Inspection:  Have a qualified technician check your furnace or heating system to ensure it's in good working order. Change Filters:  Replace air filters to improve efficiency and air quality. This should be done at least every three months. Bleed Radiators:  If you have radiators, bleed them to remove trapped air, allowing for better heat distribution. 3. Check Insulation Proper insulation keeps your home warm and reduces heating costs. Attic and Basement Insulation:  Ensure your attic and basement have adequate insulation. This can be crucial in preventing heat loss. Insulate Pipes:  Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves to prevent freezing. 4. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters Your roof and gutters play a significant role in protecting your home from winter weather. Inspect the Roof:  Check for missing or damaged shingles and repair them promptly. Clean Gutters and Downspouts:  Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and water damage. Ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. 5. Prepare Outdoor Spaces Winter can be tough on outdoor areas, so proper preparation is key. Store Outdoor Furniture:  Bring in or cover patio furniture, grills, and garden tools to protect them from the elements. Winterize Your Lawn and Garden:  Rake leaves, mulch garden beds, and trim perennials to prepare your garden for winter. Check Outdoor Faucets:  Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and bursting pipes. 6. Prepare for Snow and Ice Being ready for winter storms can save you time and hassle. Stock Up on Supplies:  Keep snow shovels, ice melt, and sand on hand for driveways and walkways. Have an Emergency Kit:  Prepare a kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, blankets, flashlights, and batteries in case of power outages. 7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Winter increases the use of heating systems, which can raise the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Check Detectors:  Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re functioning properly. Change Batteries:  Replace batteries and consider having a backup plan in case of emergencies. 8. Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades Investing in energy-efficient solutions can save money in the long run. Smart Thermostats:  Consider installing a smart thermostat to help manage your home’s heating more efficiently. Energy-Efficient Windows:  If budget allows, look into upgrading to energy-efficient windows to reduce heating costs. Conclusion Preparing your house for winter is a proactive way to ensure a cozy, safe, and efficient living environment. By following these steps, you can protect your home from the harsh winter elements and create a comfortable retreat for you and your family. Remember, it’s always better to prepare early, so get started on your winter checklist today!

Ithaca, NY—The Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT) and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation today announced the formal opening of a 140-acre property adjacent to Robert H. Treman State Park in the town of Enfield, Tompkins County. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Friday, October 18, to celebrate the opening of the property, known as Margaret's Woods, for public access. The parcel was donated to the FLLT in 2022 by the late Margaret Bald, a Tompkins County resident whose family owned the property since 1950. The addition of these acres also supports the state's goal to conserve 30 percent of its lands and waters by 2030, in line with the global  30x30 initiative  to protect the world's lands and waters. To honor Margaret's wishes for her land to be conserved, the FLLT will donate the property to the New York State Office of Parks Recreation & Historic Preservation as an addition to Robert H. Treman State Park. This generous gift follows a tradition of philanthropy started by Mr. Treman who donated hundreds of acres to establish the park, originally known as Enfield Glen State Park. 2024 marks the centennial of the establishment of New York State Parks as a statewide system and the 100th anniversary of the opening of Robert H. Treman State Park. Margaret's Woods features a mix of fields and forest which contain many high-quality sugar maples and hickories. Over the course of the summer, FLLT staff and volunteers installed a 1.4-mile trail system on the parcel which now connects to the Finger Lakes Trail within the state park. State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said , "As we continue celebrating the Centennial of the state park system, we are thrilled to see this future expansion of Robert H. Treman State Park. In the philanthropic spirit of the Treman Family, we are grateful for the generosity of Margaret Bald and her family and to the Finger Lakes Land Trust for their continued partnership and conservation efforts so that future generations can continue to benefit from these natural resources and recreational opportunities." "This is truly an incredible gift," said Finger Lakes Land Trust President Andrew Zepp . "Margaret's land is a wonderful addition to the Emerald Necklace—a growing network of conserved land that extends in an arc around Ithaca. We are honored to have a role in helping to continue her tradition of stewardship."  For close to thirty years, local forester Mike DeMunn, who was a friend of Margaret's, was the caretaker and forest manager of her woodlands. "These woods are very special to me, and I put so much care into the health of the trees," Mike said . "Now I can rest easy that they will remain into old age. I'm so thankful that it will be protected." "The Finger Lakes Land Trust continues to partner with other conservation groups to add to our rich local natural landscape," said Cayuga Trails Club President Polley McClure . "This addition of 140 acres with nearly 1.5 miles of trails to be part of Robert H. Treman State Park is wonderful! The trail connects to the Finger Lakes Trail and is accessible from the road. I am sure our hikers will be out exploring as soon as it is open." Margaret's Woods can now be accessed from a trailhead on Stonehouse Road in Enfield and is open year-round from dawn to dusk for low-impact recreational activities such as walking, hiking, and nature observation. By working cooperatively with landowners and local communities, the Finger Lakes Land Trust has protected over 33,000 acres of the region's undeveloped lakeshore, rugged gorges, rolling forest, and scenic farmland. The FLLT owns and manages a network of over 45 nature preserves that are open to the public and holds perpetual conservation easements on 200 properties that remain in private ownership. The FLLT focuses on protecting critical habitat for fish and wildlife, conserving lands that are important for water quality, connecting existing conservation lands, and keeping prime farmland in agriculture. The organization also provides programs to educate local governments, landowners, and residents about conservation and the region's unique natural resources.  Information on the region's premier destinations for outdoor recreation, including Robert H. Treman State Park, may be found at www.gofingerlakes.org , a resource created by the FLLT to encourage people to get outdoors. Additional information about the Finger Lakes Land Trust may be found at www.fllt.org .