Makes about 5 dozen. Recipe is from Anna Ozio.

11/2 cups of all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1 cup shortening

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

2 cups rolled oats

1 (12-oz.) pkg. semisweet chocolate pieces, about 2 cups

1 cup dried cherries, chopped

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.

2. Beat shortening on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugars and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Beat in flour mixture. Stir in oats, cherries and chocolate.

3. Drop by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on a cookie sheet for 2 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.