I'll dive in.
It sounds like you have found the basis of a good project. Looking on Sheldon Brown's page suggests no exact match for the name, but under "A" there is a make by the name of Atala
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/vrbn-a-f.html#atala - could this be close to what you have?
With regard to putting the bike on the road there are some key points:
1) is the frame suitably sized for you?
2) is there any noticable frame or fork damage?
3) are the wheels true, and rim braking surfaces undented.undamaged?
If these are all OK then the rest of the problems you describe are minor. Invest in two new tires and tubes (plus spare tubes) and get the brake & gear cables replaced. Test ride and see how she goes! If you are feeling happy with the bike and more ambitious you could overhaul the hubs and bottom bracket.
There are good instructions at
www.parktool.com for all maintainance & serviceing jobs.
With a bit of luck, if you get the bike in reasonable shape you could sell it on when you're done and recoup some of the costs.
Good luck,
Ed