PUBLIC TRIBUTE, TELEVISED MASS TO HONOR HEARN.

Byline: Jason Kandel Staff Writer

Legendary Los Angeles Lakers announcer Chick Hearn will be remembered today during a 10-hour public tribute at Staples Center, as well as a private funeral Mass for family and friends.

From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., fans visiting Staples will be able to view Hearn's broadcast position - the perch where he provided his ``words-eye view'' throughout the Lakers' three NBA championship seasons. His headphones, game notes and a collection of other personal items also will be on display.

``There are some really unique things that Chick used. He had charts showing starting lineups of both teams on an easel,'' said Lakers spokesman Bob Steiner. ``It's like a depth chart in football. Fans are going to see a glimpse of the actual preparation for the actual broadcast.

``I've been around for 50 years, and I was intrigued by it.''

Fans will also be able to sign a tribute book expressing their feelings for the popular announcer, who died Monday at age 85 of head injuries suffered a week ago in a fall at his Encino home.

Visitors can enter Staples Center through the Star Plaza Entry located on 11th Street. Free parking will be provided in Lots 3, 6 and 7.

Mourners also will be able to view the 11 a.m. funeral Mass for Hearn, which will be broadcast live on KCAL-TV (Channel 9) and FOX Sports Net West. Cardinal Roger Mahony will preside at the service, to be held at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Brentwood.

Tributes have been pouring in all week from sports legends, dignitaries and everyday fans of Hearn, whose voice filled the airwaves for 42 years. Los Angeles Mayor James Hahn ordered city flags lowered to half-staff, and fans created a makeshift shrine at Hearn's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Adding to the tributes, the dean of the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Southern California announced Friday that a scholarship had been created in Hearn's name.

``Chick Hearn was an icon who represented the best in sports, broadcasting and the spirit of Los Angeles,'' said Annenberg dean Geoffrey Cowan. ``We are honored that the Hearn family and the Lakers have chosen to support deserving USC Annenberg journalism students who will build upon his great tradition.''

In lieu of flowers, Hearn's family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the USC Annenberg Chick Hearn Fund, c/o the Annenberg School for Communication, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0281.