Take a mixing bowl and combine rhubarb, sugar, one-quarter teaspoon salt, lemon juice,and almond extract if so desired. Stir and set aside.
In another bowl, combine flour, two tablespoons sugar, one-quarter teaspoon salt and baking powder. Mix together. Add shortening and butter and cut together with a pastry cutter.
Beat egg and milk together. Pour into flour mixture and stir with a fork until just combined.
Pour rhubarb into a buttered baking dish.
Take off pinches of dough and drop it onto the surface of the fruit, creating a "cobbled" texture. Sprinkle more sugar over the top.
Bake approximately 30 to 35 minutes - or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.