Meet The Press

Meet The Press

Melanie Latamondeer

Editor/Owner of The Chariton Marquee

Born and raised in Salisbury, Missouri, Melanie Latamondeer graduated from Salisbury High School in 1988. Though always intrigued by journalism, her career in the field began later in life when she joined a local newspaper in 2009 as a temporary ad salesperson covering for the ad manager on maternity leave. Her dedication and passion for the industry quickly became evident, and she progressed from a temporary employee to managing editor.

After stepping away from journalism to care for her husband through his cancer battle, Melanie’s desire to work in print media never wavered. When Chariton County’s local newspaper closed in 2022, Melanie was approached about stepping in to fill the void. Her initial reaction was, “You’ve lost your mind,” but just days later, she applied for an LLC. By the end of April 2022, Chariton County had a newspaper in print once again with Melanie at the helm of The Chariton Marquee. In May 2025, the Marquee will celebrate its third anniversary and Chariton County will once again have a local legal publication.

Deeply committed to preserving the unique culture and stories of rural communities, Melanie balances her role at the Marquee with active involvement in her community. She serves on the Salisbury City Council, the Chariton County 911 Board, and serves as president of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce. She is also the founder and a board member of Larry’s Warriors Foundation, a nonprofit that supports cancer patients in Chariton County by helping cover travel expenses to treatment centers in larger cities.

Melanie is the proud mother of Joni Drummond (Brandon) and Jake Latamondeer, and “Grammie” to four of the most beautiful grandchildren ever born: Braelyn, Jayden, Stetson, and Brecklyn. She shares her life with her “manfriend” Richard Hunter and their stepdog Gizmo. Her home and office are also full of love from her fur family: Billy Bob, a friendly aussiedoodle/office greeter whom visitors often meet at the door; Bonnie, a sweet Labrador; and Barbie, the mischievous “Terror Cat.”

With a steadfast dedication to keeping the citizens of Chariton County informed, Melanie continues to champion the values and stories that define rural living while cherishing her roles as a community leader, family matriarch, and loving partner.