Checking in with... Danny Suguitan of Flagtime USA:

This Fourth of July weekend you’ll see to American flags everywhere. Chances are some of them were made at Flagtime USA in Costa Mesa. So this week we’re checking in with Danny Suguitan, Flagtime’s manager.

Aside from U.S. flags, what are the five most popular flags you sell?

Custom flags for major corporations, local sport teams, for example, soccer, football, little league baseball. We can help design any flag, or just simply provide your own art-work and we can create a beautiful flag for you. Next in line are California, novelty, military and religious flags.

How did you get into the flag-making business?

We started out at the Orange County fairgrounds and Market Place in Costa Mesa, displaying our unique and colorful booth every weekend since 1978. I have been with Flagtime since the summer of 1983. We started selling miniature flags at first then it grew from there.

Are you busier around the Fourth of July (or any other time of year)?

Usually it is busier leading up to the Fourth, but the economy has taken a toll on our industry as with many other businesses. I’m sure everyone is seeing a decline from what it used to be.

What is the most hectic time of year?

It used to be the days leading up to July 4, but those days are long gone.

It sounds like you relish the outdoors.

Yes, very much so ... love to fish, camp and ride our ATVs with family and friends.

Do you have any activities planned for the Fourth of July?

Our neighbors are having a party and my wife’s birthday is on the Fourth as well. We will be celebrating with family and friends enjoying a barbecue and fireworks.

Tell us your most memorable fishing tale.

Driving south into Baja Mexico to a little town called Loreto back in the late ’80s.

We chartered a panga for a half day and caught huge calamari and used [it] as strip bait. I caught a 35-pound dorado a.k.a. mahi-mahi along with seeing a marlin jump. My first salt-water fishing experience I’ll never forget.

Which non-U.S. flag do you admire most?

It would have to be the Hawaii flag as it is my home state. When I fly my Hawaii state flag at my residence, it gives me pride to know the colors are patriotic red, white and blue. I appreciate the freedom we as Americans have because of our armed forces.

Their brave efforts in protecting our home and for all whom made the ultimate sacrifice. God bless our military and the United States of America.