Pleasanton Express names co-managing editors to newsroom leadership

PLEASANTON – Jessica Alvarado-Machado and Charley Gallegos have been named co-managing editors of the Pleasanton Express, succeeding Daniel Elizondo.

The announcement by Publisher Noel Wilkerson Holmes was part of an introduction to the newspaper’s newsroom management team, which includes Lisa Luna, lifestyles editor, and Heaven Marquez, sports editor.

Alvarado-Machado’s history with the Pleasanton Express began in 2007, when she led advertising design for some of the newspapers largest advertisers. She has also been central to the newspaper’s digital footprint, leading the creation of both versions of the Pleasanton Express website. The first version launched in 2011 and served until the site was redesigned in 2024.

Alvarado-Machado also served as the newspaper’s first social media manager, helping the newspaper become the largest social media presence in Atacosa County. In addition, she wrote a regular column, “Just Sayin’.”

Charley Gallegos joined the Pleasanton Express in July 2024 as digital content editor and also serves as social media director. She earned her bachelor of arts degree in communications with a minor in psychology from Texas A&M University — San Antonio.

Together, Gallegos and Alvarado-Machado are key players in launching the 830 Amplified podcast, where they serve as producers and editors. The podcast is part of the Express’s ongoing work to deliver local journalism across multiple formats alongside the newspaper’s print and web coverage.

Lifestyle Editor Luna joined the Pleasanton Express in March 1998 after graduating from the University of the Incarnate Word in 1997 with a bachelor of arts degree in communication. She has won numerous awards for news and feature writing and for her living section from the Better Newspaper Contests at the Texas Press Association, South Texas Press Association and Gulf Coast Press Association.

Sports Editor Marquez rounds out the editing and writing team. She returned to the Pleasanton Express in January 2025 as sports editor after previously serving as both a high school and college intern for the newspaper. Upon graduating from Texas Tech in 2024, she returned to her hometown to lead the Express’ sports coverage in print, on the web and across social media. She was instrumental in launching the Pleasanton Express’ 830 Amplified podcast and serves as co-host.