Investigating persons viewed on local television news (other than anchors and reporters), a study examined 810 local television news stories from 1986 to 1987 from a national sample drawn from the files of a news consultant, and 543 stories (34 newscasts) from Cincinnati, Ohio, network affiliate newscasts in the summer of 1987. The unit of analysis was the individual news story. Featured persons (including elected and appointed public officials; heads of agencies, unions, and large businesses; and local or national celebrities or entertainers) were categorized as either known or unknown, and as being active in either the public or private sector. Findings revealed that, compared to national newscasts, local reports less frequently featured the quotes of "knowns," most notably the executive branch in the public sector. However, like national reporters, local television reporters had favorite sources who appeared frequently. (MM)