Almond Toffee Crunch

1 cup finely chopped toasted almonds ***to toast almonds put in pan in 350degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes stirring once or twice til golden brown***
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/4cup water
1 cup margarine
1/4 teaspoon soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pkg milk chocolate chips

In heavy 2 qt saucepan stir together sugar, syrup, water. Stirring constantly cook over medium heat until it comes to a boil.Cover,cook 1 minute. Stir in margarine til melted. Stirring constantly continue cooking until 290 degrees. Remove from heat. Stir in soda, salt and almonds til blended. Pour immediately into ungreased 10x15 pan. Spread quickly!! (I use a silicone spatula,its a little easier to smooth out) Cool 5 minutes. Sprinkle choc pieces over and let sit. When melted, spread over toffee. Break into pieces when cooled. Makes 2 lbs.