1 pkg. dates (cut in half)
1 c. hot water
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1/4 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 c. nutmeats
1 pkg. chocolate chips

Pour hot water and soda over dates. Cool. Cream sugar and shortening. Add dates to creamed mixture and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add eggs, vanilla, flour sifted with cocoa and baking powder. Pour into 9 x 13 inch pan. Sprinkle dough with nuts and chocolate. Bake in oven at 375 degrees for 40 minutes. Serve with ice cream, whipped cream or plain.