they seem stuck to the tree, in the new branches and due to the green color they just seem like part of the branch. Yes I can lift or scratch them off with fingernail. how to get rid of them? thanks.

Impatiens niamniamensis Here is a link that might be useful: Impatiens

The pictured tree is in India, so is its mother. But the mother plant was from a cutting from someone who took it from around upstate NY. It thrives in India, so maybe its tropical. And was sold as an annual in NY. I thought it was Chionanthus virginicus as well. But yes I agree if you zoom into the white leaves they look different. Bromelia, I think you are right! Google images of Euphorbia leucocephala look very similar. The pictured tree seems to have thinner leaves but maybe a close different cultivar, or maybe just different growing conditions. Thanks everyone

It's a Assassin Bug Nymph - Reduvius personatus. They normally pick up lint or other debis for camoflage. Ian Here is a link that might be useful: Assassin bug nymph