Congo Bars

2 3/4 cup flour
2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup shortening; (butter, margarine etc)
3 eggs
2 1/2 cup brown sugar; firmly packed
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 packet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts; (optional)
In a saucepan, melt the shortening. When cooled slightly, add the 3 eggs and beat well. Then add the brown sugar to the pan, mixing well to break up all the lumps, pour into a large bowl, and then set aside. Sift together the dry ingredients, and little by little, add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, using an electric mixer. While blending, add the vanilla. When all mixed together, fold in the chocolate chips and the nuts. Pour into a greased 9 x 11 inch pan and bake for 35 minutes in a 350 degree oven.