1 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. rolled oats
1 c. brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. butter

FILLING:

1/2 lb. dates, cut up
1/2 c. granulated sugar
2/3 c. water

LAYERS: Mix flour, oats, sugar, soda and salt into large bowl; cut in butter until crumbly. Press 2/3 of mixture into greased 9 x 9 inch pan.

FILLING: Combine dates, sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Allow to simmer until dates are soft. Spread over bottom layer of crumbs. Sprinkle remaining crumbs over top. Press down crumbs. Bake in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until rich and golden brown. (You can use melted butter if you are in a hurry.) Cut into squares.