Sift first 5 ingredients together, set aside.

Cream shortening and margarine together, adding the sugars while creaming.

Add egg and rum extract, beating until light and fluffy.

Blend in dry ingredients.

Wrap dough in wax paper and chill thoroughly.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out small amounts of dough at a time to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with fluted cookie cutter or biscuit cutter.

Decorate rounds with pecan halves, if desired.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake at 400 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Remove to wire racks to cool.