RUMFORD – Eddie Shurtleff is looking for a few thousand dollars more.

With the deadline nearing to place an order for this year’s fireworks display during the July Fourth and Moontide Water Festival, Shurtleff said the committee has raised about $15,500.

They had hoped to raise about $20,000 so that this year’s return of the fireworks display would be comparable with that of 2005, the last year the fireworks were shot off over the reflection pool of the Androscoggin River.

Businesses and individuals have until May 17 to get their pledges in or make donations. That’s when the committee must have forms filled out for submission to the State Fire Marshal’s Office. The fireworks will come from Telstar Displays in New Hampshire.

He said he received only a 13 percent response from the 250 letters that went out a few weeks ago asking for donations. The Moontide festival is an official non-profit, he said, so donations are tax deductible.

Those who wish to make a donation may mail it to: Moontide Water Festival Inc., P.O. Box 372, Rumford, ME 04276.

Shurtleff is also looking for volunteers to help during the July Fourth celebration.

With only seven active members, the committee’s chairman said at least eight more are needed to assist with flea and craft markets, a bake sale, face painting and other events being scheduled for along Congress Street, the information center parking lot, and Veterans Park. Shurtleff said a flyover is also planned.

People who want to help can call Shurtleff at 364-2795.

The committee has about $3,500 set aside for festival incidentals such as portable toilets, tents, a stage for musical performances, and Betsy Ross flags to decorate the area.