Friends of Ernie Viviani, a well-known mechanic in Livingston who is battling cancer, are sponsoring an event in his honor they hope will hit the bullseye.

"Darts From the Heart: A Benefit Tournament for our Friend Ernie Viviani" will be Saturday, April 16, at Ringside Pub in Caldwell, to help pay for Viviani's medical expenses. All proceeds from the evening, which include singles and doubles play, will go toward helping Viviani, 52, a longtime member of the Tri-County Dart Association.

The past few years have been challenging and draining on Viviani and his wife, Cindy, both physically and financially. According to his family and friends, Viviani is fighting this battle with dignity and grace, but now he needs the help of his community.

“Ernie is an exceptional man of many great values,” said his wife, Cindy, in a recent interview. “His heart has always been geared to help people any way he can. One of Ernie's greatest traits is his honesty, the second is helping others, and the third is honesty again!”

Viviani lived and worked in Livingston for most of his life. He attended Livingston High School and currently resides in Caldwell. He has been a Gold Star-rated mechanic in Livingston for more than 30 years.  

Those who know him best say Viviani is a man of great character – he is always pleasant-natured, calm and kind. He is passionate about Harley Davidson motorcycles, old cars and trucks. A true “gearhead” to his bones, he is well-known for his honesty in his work, as well as his personal relationships.

Virtually everyone in the Tri-County Dart league has played with him or against him many times over the years. When you play darts with Ernie, they say, you play a gentleman, win or lose.  

One of Viviani's friends, Jeff Haas, met Viviani through playing darts and the men became friends more than 15 years ago.

“He would always put his hand in his pocket first to help out others,” said Haas. “Ernie is what is known as a real ‘mensch’, a gentleman.”

Rob Hellwig, 42, of Randolph, said he knows Viviani for 20 years. He first met him shortly after he bought a motorcycle that didn’t run very well. Viviani helped him rebuild it and they have been friends since.

“He’s a good-hearted person who goes out of his way for others,” Hellwig agreed.

All proceeds and entrance fees from Saturday’s dart tournament will go directly to a fund to help pay for medical expenses. Donations may also be sent to "Ernie Viviani Benefit Fund”, c/o The Ringside Pub, 379 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, NJ 07006.

There will be multiple dart events: singles and doubles. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, food all day, prizes, and a bull shoot every hour. Sign up starts at noon. The first event will be held at 1 p.m.