POWER PUFF GIRLS

Just call them Sabrina, Kelly and Jill

It had all the makings of a “;Charlie's Angels”; episode.

Desire Salon & Spa owner Tara Madijanon and co-workers Jennie Honda, a skin-care specialist, and Vera Close, cosmetologist and business partner, went after two male suspects allegedly trying to steal Madijanon's van outside the Aiea salon on Tuesday. Kicking off high heels and giving chase, Madijanon and pals were able to pull and wrestle the suspects out and away; the men were soon arrested. This one ended humorously and well, but to all you wannabe “;Angels”; out there: The police probably wouldn't want you to risk injury by trying this on your own.

STORMY WEATHER

El Nino swings into the Pacific

News that we're in an El Nino weather phase is a bad news/good news thing for Hawaii.

On the downside: A higher risk of hurricanes, as more storms are likely to form in the Pacific. The upside: Peak El Nino conditions generally occur in the winter months, with less rain a hallmark. Sunnier skies during that peak tourist season should be good for the economy.

ALOHA, IRAQ

Time to kanikapila in Kirkuk

First it was President Barack Obama at the White House; next month, it'll be four dozen Hawaii Air National Guard airmen in Iraq. We're talking luaus, and the airmen will host one Aug. 21 at Kirkuk Regional Air Base to mark the 50th anniversary of Hawaii statehood. Donations are being sent, including bags of rice and 700 leis.

“;The aloha spirit is alive and well out here in the desert,”; says Master Sgt. Sean Iida, of the Maui-based 292nd Combat Communications Squadron. Way to keep it going around the world.