Matrimonial Bars

1 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cups rolled oats

Filling:
1 cup cut-up dates
1/2 cup water
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1 Tbsp grated orange rind
2 Tbsp orange juice
1 tsp lemon juice

Sift flour, baking powder, soda, and salt into a large mixing bowl. Cut in shortening; add sugar and rolled oats. Mix well. Press half of the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Pour cooled date filling evenly over the mixture. Cover with remaining flour/oat mixture. Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes. Cut while warm; cool in pan. Makes about 36 bars.

To make filling: Combine dates, water, sugar, and orange rind in saucepan. Cook until thick and smooth. Add fruit juice and mix well. Cool before spreading.