Maraschino Cherry Cookies

I got this recipe from a guy I knew in college. It is one of our favorites around the holidays

1 1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
3 1/2 c. flour
1 c. maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
1 tsp. salt
1 1/4 tsp. almond flavoring
2 tsp. baking soda
1 c. coconut
Cream shortening and sugar. Add salt, almond flavoring and eggs. Beat well.Add dry ingredients. Mix well.Blend in cherries and coconut.Drop by spoonfuls on cookie sheet.Bake at 375 for 8 minutes