Major Receives July’s Citizen of the Month Award

GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has recognized Debbie Major, the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Zylofone Studios, Inc., as the Citizen of the Month Award winner for the month of July.

Zylofone Studios, located in Campbell Hall, is a non-profit organization that provides performing arts workshops to the special needs community and senior citizens.

“Debbie has had a profound impact on the people with whom she works with and their families,” Neuhaus said. “She is passionate and innovative, which is reflected in the diverse programs that Zylofone Studios offers our community. I have always been impressed by Debbie’s energy and kindness. She is deeply committed to Zylofone’s mission and I know the studio will continue to touch lives as it grows.”

Zylofone programs offer participants the space and freedom to express themselves and indulge in safe and educational activities while enhancing their social and life skills, and development. Major and her staff work with approximately 400 clients each year, ranging in age from infants to 90 years-old in her studio and at various locations throughout the County.

Classes include music and movement, drum therapy, sketch and song, a dance program, karaoke , theater and more.

“I wanted to provide a venue that feels like home and allows people to be creative,” said Major, a Montgomery resident. “We are a very tight-knit group, we’ve become a family. This makes me look forward to waking up every day and it makes my life richer. The vision that we had for Zylofone has definitely come to fruition.”

Major, an accomplished singer and pianist, started Zylofone in 2011. She was inspired by her sons, Gage and Jacob, who are fraternal twins. Gage has cerebral palsy and Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. Jacob is also autistic. According to Autism Speaks, Autism refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and talents.
Debbie Major raised Gage and Jacob, who are now 26, as a single mother. Her sister, Maureen, is Zylofone’s Chief Operating Officer.

“I’m honored that County Executive Neuhaus is recognizing Zylofone and I think it is a program that every community should have,” Major said. “I appreciate that he is bringing attention to Zylofone and helping it shine. It means a lot to all of us.”

Neuhaus introduced his Citizen of the Month Award, which acknowledges outstanding Orange County residents, in January. To nominate someone for the Citizen of the Month Award, please email ceoffice@orangecountygov.com or mail a letter to “Citizen of the Month” at 255-275 Main Street Goshen, N.Y. 10924. Be sure to include the nominee’s name, hometown, a list of their accomplishments, why you are nominating them and any other pertinent information. Nominees must be from Orange County.