1/2 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 3/4 c. oatmeal

Thoroughly cream shortening and sugar. Add sifted dry ingredients and oatmeal. Mix until crumbly. Firmly pat half of mixture in waxed paper-lined 9 x 13 inch pan. Spread with date filling. Add remaining crumbs and pat smooth. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Cut into bars or squares. Makes 20.

DATE FILLING:

Cook 1 pound dates, pitted and cut with 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water to the consistency of jam.