Makes 16 Servings

                                  2 1/2 C. powdered sugar           4 (4 oz.) jars maraschino cherries, drained
                                  1/4 C. margarine, softened       2 C. chocolate chips
                                  1 T. milk                                         2 T. shortening
                                   1/2 tsp. almond extract

In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, margarine, milk and almond extract. Transfer to a lightly floured flat surface. Knead dough by hand into a large bowl. Divide ball into 1" balls. Flatten each b all into a 2" circle. Wrap each cherry with 1 circle by lightly rolling in hands, leaving the stems sticking out. Place wrapped cherries on waxed paper and chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt chocolate chips and shortening and mix well. Hold 1 wrapped chilled cherry by the stem and dip into the melted chocolate mixture. Place covered cherry on waxed paper. Repeat with remaining cherries. Chill chocolate covered cherries in refrigerator until ready to serve.