[web2py] Demystifying some web2py magic

[Jim Steil]

Hi

I have a utility module that I use regularly where I put some of my 
application-specific helper functions.  What is the proper way to import 
this to make it available in my controllers and views?

I've tried the local_import in db.py but have seen references on this 
list that recommend against using that.  This method had the reload=True 
option that allowed me to make changes to my utility module and not have 
to restart the web2py server to make the changes visible.

If I recall correctly (and I certainly could be wrong), the preferred 
method is to now use import.  But, using this method I have to restart 
web2py every time I make a change so I can see the results.

Can someone please tell me how I can import a module and have it reload 
automatically like local_import('module', reload=True) does?  Or, should 
I still be using local_import when I want reloading to occur?

Thanks

    -Jim