Photographic memories

It was standing room only last night at the Museum of Fine Arts to hear actor Dennis Hopper talk about his photography - which includes portraits of Andy Warhol, Paul Newman, and Ike and Tina Turner - and the role art has played in his life. The "Easy Rider" star chatted onstage with MFA director Malcolm Rogers about getting a camera in the 1960s and snapping all the people he's worked with over the years.

Back in 1962, Caroline Kennedy wrote to Santa asking for a pair of skates and two dolls, and even put in a good word for her baby brother, John. The missive is included in her new book, "A Family Christmas," copies of which Kennedy signed yesterday at the Kennedy Library and Museum. Other writings are featured as well, including a letter President Kennedy wrote to a Michigan girl in 1961: "I'm glad to get your letter about trying to stop the Russians from bombing the North Pole and risking the life of Santa Claus. However, you must not worry about Santa Claus. I talked with him yesterday and he is fine. He will be making his rounds this Christmas."

It took uber-fan Matt Damon less time to narrate the official "2007 World Series Film" than it took the Red Sox rolling rally to make its way through town. That said, the Oscar-winner puts in his time when it comes to the team. Look for Damon to be in Boston Nov. 26 for the DVD release party with Sox brass John Henry and Larry Lucchino and several members of the team.

Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling will join team legends Johnny Pesky and Dom DiMaggio this weekend for "Duty, Honor, Country: When Baseball Went to War," a conference at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. Organized by Rounder Records founder Bill Nowlin and author Todd Anton, the events will also feature Tommy Lasorda, Morrie Martin, Bob Feller, and Jerry Coleman.

Longmeadow's Bridget Moynahan looked positively svelte at the LA premiere of her new movie "Noise" Tuesday night. In late August, the actress gave birth to John Edward Thomas Moynahan, her son with ex-beau and Pats QB Tom Brady, and has been keeping a low profile since. In the comedy, Moynahan is married to a guy (Tim Robbins) who's being driven nuts by all the loud, annoying, and seemingly endless sounds of New York City.

Paul Pierce and his re-energized Boston Celtics are already becoming a tough ticket as the boldfaced names pour into the stands. A number of notables were expected at the Garden last night, including Sox first baseman Kevin Youkilis and pop singer JoJo. Who else had tix? Patriots players Mike Vrabel and Vince Wilfork, and tennis player James Blake, a guest of Kevin Garnett's wife, Brandi.

Names can be reached at names@globe .com or at 617-929-8253.