model.js

// The primary function of a **Model** is to manipulate and query data. For example filtering
// an array-type object should happen in a subclass of Model. Another great candidate
// for a **Model** is any object that requires an external resource such as an ajax call.
//
// Basically, any long running or long blocking operation should happen in a model.

// **Models** are usually encapsulated in **Views** and rarely, if ever, stand alone. 
propublica.Model = Base.extend({
  // The **init** method copies the passed in attributes to the instance's built in
  // **_attrs** object.
  init : function(attrs){
    this._attrs = this._attrs || {};
    _.extend(this._attrs, attrs);
    return this;
  },
  // The **copy** method returns a copy of the current **Model** with the instance's 
  // attributes filled in.
  copy : function(){
    return new (this.init)(this._attrs);
  }
  
});