Dear friends of Beara, If your travels are taking you to Beara in September, you may wish to take in this event: http://www.thegatheringireland.com/Attend-A-Gathering/Individual-Gathering.aspx?eid=2093#.UVrwZpPvsWJ --- Begin cited text --- Allihies is welcoming the copper-mining diaspora home! Come and celebrate and connect with your roots! Allihies became a flourishing community during the 1800s when the copper mining industry was established in the mountains surrounding the village, employing many workers locally and many from Cornwall. When the mines became exhausted, the workers emmigrated across the world many of whom settled in Australia and many in Butte, Montana also known as Shamrock City! We are calling these people to come to Allihies and celebrate our connections and Heritage. To breathe life back into the mines themself by having a grand opening with the illumination of the main mine building, lighting of the engine-house chimney and Main Choir musical event in the underground mine! Over the course of our celebrations there will be copper smelting and casting taking place.. and the un-veiling of a plaque for the mines museum memorial garden Amongst other activities there will be Geneology Research and Clan Gathering. Fire-blowers and Theatrics. Childrens re-inactment performance/play. Irish dancing. Bodhran players. Story-telling. Guided tours of the mines. Harvest market... and much more! Come and celebrate with us!! --- End cited text --- Looks like a grand time. I hope somebody reading this gets to enjoy it. -- Bill