Preheat oven to 350(F). In a large mixing bowl mix beat butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes or until well mixed. In another bowl combine flour, oats, and baking soda. Add flour mixture to sugar mixture, mix on low speed until crumbly. Spread two thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 13 by 9 inch baking pan. Press down firmly. Puree the cherry filling with an electric blender or a food processor until smooth. Pour pureed cherry filling into a medium saucepan. Combine granulated sugar and cornstarch; stir into cherry filling. Cook stirring frequently, over medium low heat until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Stir in almond extract. Pour cherry mixture over over oat layer; spread evenly. Top with remaining oat mixture. Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.