1/2 lb. dates, cut up
1/2 c. sugar
1 c. water
3/4 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 2 tbsp. hot water
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts
15 oz. pkg. orange slice candy

Combine dates, sugar, and water in saucepan and boil until thick. Cool.

Cream shortening, eggs, sugar, soda and water, and vanilla. Stir in flour, salt, and chopped nuts. Spread half of mixture in a 9x13 pan. Cover with orange slices that have been cut lengthwise in thirds.

Spread date mixture over orange slices and top with remaining mixture. Bake in 350 degree oven for 40 minutes. Serve with topping of Cool Whip.