SIDETRACK
FATHER’S DAY WAS FOR THE BIRDS: David Ortiz is one lucky dad and he isn't afraid to show it. Big Papi was pampered by his family for Father's Day, starting with a Dominican breakfast made by his daughters. He proceeded to publicize his present from his wife and kiddos: They sent him a flock of birds, which are apparently a passion of his, so he could spend quality time hanging out with these feathered friends. The former Red Sox slugger showed off some of his new birding skills, summoning a saker falcon to his thankfully gloved hand, with the help of a worm. Just so he didn't play favorites, Ortiz also boasted about his other new pals for a day, including a barn owl and a spectacled owl, as well as a bald eagle that was appropriately perched in front of an American flag.
BATTLE OF THE BOBBYS: Robert Sisca, executive chef at Bistro du Midi, has dared to take on Bobby Flay and lives to tell the tale. The local culinary master will be appearing on the Food Network's “Beat Bobby Flay” this week, and the Boylston Street eatery is inviting everyone to attend a special viewing party to celebrate his appearance. The episode will be airing Thursday at 10 p.m., but the restaurant will be welcoming guests starting at 9 p.m. to give them ample time to sample bites inspired by the throwdown, sip Champagne and mentally prepare to root for Sisca.
KISS AND TELL: Local talent Nicole Michelle warmed up the crowd at the Kiss concert, serving as its opening act this weekend. The 15-year-old performed her original songs “When You Fall” and “Vanished,” as well as a cover of Demi Lovato's “Sorry Not Sorry” before the headliners — including Backstreet Boys, Dua Lipa, Bebe Rexha, 5 Seconds of Summer and Alessia Cara — hit the stage. Behind the scenes, the singer, who's working on her first full-length record called Generation N, was seen rubbing elbows with Noah Cyrus — daughter of Billy Ray and sister of Miley — before her surprise performance with MAX.