Akong Rinpoche cremation ceremony planned in Tibet

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Akong Rinpoche founded the Samye Ling Tibetan centre and monastery in 1967 Akong Rinpoche's body is being taken to Tibet for cremation

Beijing, China -- The body of the founder of the Samye Ling Buddhist centre at Eskdalemuir in Dumfriesshire is being taken to his native Tibet for cremation.

Akong Rinpoche was killed in China on Tuesday along with his nephew and his driver.

A statement on the Samye Ling website confirmed plans for a ceremony in accordance with his high standing.

It will take place at his monastery, Dolma Lhakang, in the Tibetan Autonomous Region.

That was where, at the age of four, he was identified as the reincarnation of an earlier leader, enthroned, and began the spiritual education required for a future abbot.

A statement from his brother - Lama Yeshe - said Akong Rinpoche was travelling in China to distribute funds to projects supported by the charity Rokpa International which he founded - and was killed by individuals trying to rob him.

Chinese police have already said that three Tibetan men are in custody for the triple killing.

Akong Rinpoche left a wife and three children and they have expressed thanks to people in the UK and overseas for the many messages of condolences they have received.

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Buddhist temple planned for NE Portland lot

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PORTLAND, OR (USA) -- The former landfill across from Madison High School near Northeast 82nd Avenue has been one of Portland’s biggest eyesores and a magnet for transients.

The area has served as a driving range and there has even been a proposal for a Wal-Mart there, but now neighbors are talking about some other big plans for the space.

By next year, it could become a Buddhist religious center with community gardens and paths connecting it to Rocky Butte.

The Dharma Rain Zen Center bought 14 acres of the land in November.

It’s been in the Buckman neighborhood for the last 25 years, but now the center wants to expand.

Besides a temple and green space, the building plans include a preschool and a 30-unit co-housing community.

Crews have already started clearing the overgrown land and reaching out to neighbors.

Kurt Muntzel still has his yard sign protesting plans to build a Wal-Mart there a few years ago. He's more open to the idea of a Buddhist center.

"I think it's going to be a great addition to the neighborhood. It's going to have nature trails and multi-use buildings and classes, so I think it's great. Better than some big retail center,” he said.

Before plans can move forward, the city has to approve the land use. There will be a public hearing March 20.

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