[mod_python] global textual constants

I am attempting to have modpython populate certain slots in a psp
template. 

Since publisher calls the function named on the url automagically, is
there  some init that I can call prior to that? I would like to have
my script read some files that would provide globally available text
-- something like a common footer disclaimer --

so I could do someting like

slot1 = open('slot1.txt', 'r').read()
slot2 = open('slot2.txt', 'r').read()

Then slot1 and slot2 would be available in any function that I need
them.

-- 
David Bear
phone: 	480-965-8257
fax: 	480-965-9189
College of Public Programs/ASU
Wilson Hall 232
Tempe, AZ 85287-0803
 "Beware the IP portfolio, everyone will be suspect of trespassing"