Wash persimmons well. Remove stem. Place in blender with or without skins to make pulp. Mix together all dry ingredients except sugar. Add chocolate chips, nuts and dates to dry ingredients. Stir until all coated. Cream sugar, shortening, egg together. Add persimmons. Mix well. Stir into first mixture and blend well. Drop by teaspoons onto buttered cookie sheet. Bake dozen to 15 minutes in 350 degree oven.