1 1/4 c. boiling water
1 pkg. chopped dates
1 tsp. baking soda
3/4 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. flour

TOPPING:

1/2 c. sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Pour boiling water over dates; add soda. Allow to cool. Cream shortening and sugar; add eggs and salt. Add date mixture with flour, mix well. Pour into 9 x 13 pan and sprinkle with topping mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.