1 c. chopped dates
1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 tsp. baking soda

Sprinkle soda over dates in mixing bowl. Pour boiling water over dates. Set aside to cool.

1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chocolate chips
1/3 to 1/2 c. sugar

Cream shortening and 1 cup sugar. Add eggs. Add flour, salt, 3/4 teaspoon baking soda and blend. Add vanilla and cooled date mixture and beat.

Pour batter in a 9 x 13 inch greased baking pan. Sprinkle 1 cup chocolate chips and 1/3 cup or so of sugar over top of batter. If desired, you may also sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped nuts on top of batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes or until done. DO NOT FROST.