Oatmeal Bars with Date Filling

2-1.2 cups all-purpose flour
2-1/2 cups quick oats (uncooked)
1-1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1-1/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
1 (10 to 12 oz.) package pitted dates, chopped
1-1/4 cup sugar
1-1/4 cup water

Directions:
Combine flour, oats, soda, salt, and sugar. Toss together. Add softened butter and cut together until mixture falls into coarse crumbs. Press half of the mixture evenly into an ungreased 9x13" cake pan.

Combine dates, sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Cook over low heat until sugar dissolves and dates soften. Mixture will be dark-colored and thickened when ready. Spread evenly over oat mixture in pan. Sprinkle remaining oat mixture evenly over dates.

Bake at 325° for 40-45 minutes or until top is lightly browned. Allow to cool slightly, cut into bars. Remove bars to a wire rack to complete cooling.