In N.H. town, disquiet over yoga class

RAYMOND, N.H. - Molly Schlangen had hoped to celebrate International Peace Day by leading a free yoga class and meditation service today on the town common, linking this rural hamlet to the global peace community.

But the Board of Selectmen here struck its own warrior pose. They denied Schlangen’s request to lead the class on the tiny triangular green, concerned about the number of people that might flock to town.

“The Board of Selectmen has the duty to ensure the town is properly protected,’’ said Selectman Chairman Frank Bourque, who cast the deciding vote in the 3-2 decision. “We had no idea if this event would attract 10 or 2,000 people. Our common is very small.’’

Schlangen - who last year was allowed to hold her class on the common - plans instead to lead a two-hour peace service at her yoga studio in nearby Epping.